Are you putting your home on the market? If so, there are a few things you need to do to keep it safe while it's sitting empty. Start by taking advantage of the tips below which we got help creating thanks to unoccupied home insurance company Propertytoinsure.co.uk!

Double Check Your Insurance Coverage

Insurance companies see a vacant home as a cause for concern, and they're right to feel this way. After you've moved out, give your insurance company a call and ask how your coverage will be affected. Some of the things you need to discuss with your company are:

-How long is your home covered under your policy?

-Are there any precautions you need to take to keep the policy valid?

-Does your company offer a malicious mischief or vandalism coverage?

Install Exterior Lighting

You alone can take the necessary steps to protect your home against intruders while it stands empty. Work on deterring burglars by installing exterior lighting and leaving it on a timer as well as motion activated sensors. Light all of the entrances to your home, and don't forget the sides as well!

Install proper lighting on or around your garage and detached sheds. If you want additional security, you can purchase lights which have been integrated with security cameras. What happens is that your cameras turn on and record action the moment your light sensors turn on the exterior lights. You can easily access these recordings online. 

Have Local Contacts

In the old days, when you left your house empty when you put it on the market, you would ask a friend or neighbor to keep an eye out. On occasion, you would drive by to check everything is in order. This is no longer a viable option, and you need extra protection. How can you get it?

There are companies that, for a fee, will check the interior and exterior of your home on a regular basis. They also make sure that yard maintenance is still carried out, and if need be, they can find someone to temporarily occupy your home while it's on the market.

Protect The Property From The Elements

Though you want your house safe from bad guys, Mother Nature can also wreak havoc on your property. You need to take steps to protect your home from the elements. Start by installing a thermostat you can program to ensure your plumbing pipes don't freeze in winter. You can find thermostats that are Wi-Fi enabled to allow online programming.

Activate Security System 

Don't terminate your home's security monitoring service. Even if you pride yourself for living in the perfect neighborhood, there are criminals that drive around looking for vacant homes. They steal everything they can get their hands on-- your plumbing pipes, heat pumps, cabinets or your air conditioner. Don't cut costs, protect your home!