Have you finalized your travel plans with your loved ones this holiday season? As a condo dweller, it’s understandable to be worried about leaving your unit even for just a couple of days.
Although a major benefit of condo living is the security it affords, it’s important that you take the necessary measures to keep your home safe while you’re away for the holidays. Fortunately, it’s not that difficult to prevent a household calamity from happening as you enjoy your holiday vacation elsewhere. Learn how smart condo dwellers keep their units safe with these 10 holiday security tips for condo renters.
1. They are conscious about basic electrical and home setups
Worry-free condo renters are conscious about the safety of their electrical and home setups. Some cautionary practices include unplugging some electronics, checking the water faucet for leakage, and closing the gaps in doors and windows.
Photo courtesy of kaboompics via Pixabay
Unplugging some of your electronics will eliminate power surges and keep them from overheating. These electronics include your television, desktop computer, oven, air conditioner, and microwave. Also consider unplugging your fridge, depending on its contents. Don’t forget about your holiday lights like those on your Christmas tree.
Condo security this holiday requires you to unplug your electronics instead of just turning them off. Many appliances draw energy even when they’re switched off. This will not only reduce your utility expense but also prevent fire.
When it comes to water safety, nobody wants a flooded unit right? Before leaving for your holiday trip, double-check your plumbing system for possible leakage. Inspect water taps and faucets, making sure they’re securely fastened. Don’t forget about toilet leaks. To check everything is watertight, place dye tablets or a few drops of food coloring into the tank water. If colored water appears in the toilet bowl, it means the flapper valve needs repair. Look around your unit and be attentive for mold or water spots in the walls and ceiling. Should there be issues, contact your administrator immediately so they can fix the problem.
Photo courtesy of Pexels via Pixabay
Lastly, closing the gaps in your doors and windows is important, especially if you’re holiday vacation extends up to New Year. The smoke from the fireworks outside can creep into your windows and doors. Cover the gaps with cloth or tape. This will also prevent rainwater from coming in.
2. They have round-the-clock security
Tap the management property services of your condo. These include security monitoring, roving security personnel, and general maintenance of common areas.
Feel secure on your holiday trip with DMCI’s 24-hour Security.
Photo courtesy of DMCI Homes
In DMCI condo for rent properties, residents also enjoy the added benefits of a guarded main entrance, round-the-clock security, and electric perimeter fence. It’s smart to inform your administration and security personnel that you’ll be away. You can request for them to look after your property. Roving guards can do a regular check of your property and take immediate action when they see something suspicious.
Remember that gated communities can be targets for burglars and criminals. While it’s a great thing that your condo has 24/7 security, making your condo management aware that you’ll be gone for a while will reinforce security for your property.
3. They avoid food and health hazards
Perceptive condo renters avoid food and health hazards from developing at home while they’re away. It is advisable that you dispose of easily perishable goods before leaving.
Photo courtesy of ferarcosn via Pixabay
Unattended food can spoil, cause bad odors and lead to bacterial growth. So, you must tidy up your kitchen and refrigerator. Proper food storage and disposal will also protect your home from bacteria problems. Food that you can consider disposing of while you’re away include meat and vegetable dishes, fruits, and sweets that need to be refrigerated. You want to come home to a fresh-smelling condo and not be greeted by the rotten smell of roasted turkey from last week. Clean your kitchen from any food gunk that might have fallen off in the nooks and crannies. Take the trash out and put a fresh bag in the bin.
4. They are wary of condo security
Secure your condo unit by making sure it’s properly locked. This might sound obvious, but you’d be surprised how many renters forget about this.
Photo courtesy of PDPics via Pixabay
A securely locked unit is less attractive to burglars. Test your door locks and make sure they’re working properly. Now can also be the time to upgrade your locks for your entrance door. Consider a commercial grade deadbolt, which is difficult to pick.
It’s also good idea to lock each door of your condo as an extra security measure. This will make it difficult for intruders to access your rooms in case they make it through the main door. To fortify safety and security with all the conveniences of modern technology, also consider installing security system and alarm devices. These can be easily connected to your mobile phones and laptops and can be accessed through the Internet.
5. They have an updated inventory of valuables
Holiday safety tips for condo renters include looking after your belongings. It’s likely that you will be leaving some of your valuables at home.
Make an updated inventory of your valuables such as jewelry, heirlooms, Christmas presents and items with sentimental value. You can also include appliances, firearms, and other important possessions. Go through each room and make a list of all the items you’d truly mind parting with. You can also take a photo of the valuables. Doing this will also help you decide which to put in a safer place or bring to a friend for safekeeping.
6. They have a close eye to look around the pad
Ask your friendly neighbor to keep an eye on your condo while you’re away. This will help you gain peace of mind. It’s one of the simplest, yet most crucial condo safety tips for Christmas.
Sweeten the request by giving your neighbor a holiday present. It can be freshly baked cookies or cupcakes. If you feel comfortable, you can also give your neighbor a key so he or she can bring your mail in, water your plants and feed your pet. If you have more than one person looking after your house, make sure to introduce them to each other. Provide them with your contact information and a copy of your itinerary in case of an emergency.
Following these tips for condo renters this holiday season should give you no reason to spend time worrying about the security of your home. A holiday vacation with loved ones should be a relaxing time. With preparation and security measures, you and your loves ones can truly focus on enjoy and creating holiday memories.
Key Takeaways
The holiday season is a time for family, friends, and fun. But it can also be a time of stress and worry, especially if you'll be away from your unit long.
- Don't stress about the things you can't control. Although being away from your condo can be tough, it's important to remember that you're not responsible for everything that goes on in your building. If something does happen, your leasing company will be there to help.
- Ensure that you're mentally prepared for what could potentially happen while you're away. If something does go wrong, you'll be able to handle it with grace and ease. Reach out to your leasing company in advance and let them know you'll be away for a while.
- Remember to relax and enjoy your time away. Worrying about your condo will only ruin your vacation. So, take a deep breath, put your feet up, and enjoy your holiday.
To learn more about DMCI Homes pre-selling and ready for occupancy projects, units for lease, and special promos, log on to www.dmcihomes.com or call (632) 5324-8888. You can also check out https://leasing.dmcihomes.com/ for currently available condos for rent.
For news and other updates, check out our social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.
