How do I prepare to be gone for the holidays?

With the holidays upon us, there are several precautions that should be taken to safeguard your apartment, particularly, if you are leaving for an extended period. The police department has noted that the Christmas holidays are one of the peak times of the year for theft, in any area. The following is a list of suggestions to guide you.

1. If you are leaving town, make arrangements with a friend or neighbor to check your unit daily. They should give the appearance that someone is home, by picking up newspapers, or door hangers. Also, if possible, make sure outside lighting is turned off during the day, and on at night.

2. Do not let everyone know that you will be gone for an extended period.

3. Make sure all windows are secured, and doorknobs and deadbolts are locked. If any are not working, please report this to the office, immediately, so that repairs can be made.

4. If possible, take valuable items with you when you leave, or make other storage arrangements.

5. If you notice anything unusual in your neighborhood, report it to the police immediately.

6. As per the lease agreement, we recommend that you obtain renters insurance to protect your personal belongings. This covers your valuables for theft, fire, water damage, etc. and is very economical. If you do not have insurance, your personal content and valuables are not covered, as the owner’s insurance cannot cover these items.

7. Do not have utilities disconnected for periods when you are gone, nor should you turn off breakers. To prevent freeze damage from broken pipes, you must leave the heater on at a minimum setting of 60 degrees. For any prolonged freezing weather, you will need to drip all interior and exterior faucets to prevent them from freezing. (Both hot and cold faucets.) Also, disconnect washing machine lines, place the hoses in the drain line, and drip these. Please discontinue dripping after the freezing weather has passed. Note that damage from freezing pipes can be charged back if the water breaks are caused from negligence.

Your cooperation will be greatly appreciated in all of the above suggestions.

Please review the security guidelines in your lease. If you have any questions, please contact our office.

Have a safe and happy holiday and a very Merry Christmas!