There are enough things to worry about in life, your cottage security shouldn’t be one of them. After all, your cottage is your zen escape from the hustle and bustle, but unfortunately, cottage break ins aren’t that uncommon in our region. They can happen when a property is left vacant for months or even just days. It all boils down to taking the necessary precautions to deter a would-be thief, which is the best way to protect your property and have peace of mind. These tips will help you achieve just that:
Does it look like it’s lived in?
If it looks like someone’s been there recently, then that can help deter a break-in. Be sure to get your laneway ploughed, steps brushed off, lights turned on occasionally, or just fresh tire tracks in the snow or gravel might do the trick. You can call on the services of a local cottage security company, or call on your neighbours and reward them with a nice bottle of wine or gift card to thank them for their time; it’s a worthy investment. You can also activate lights, music or even ‘barking dog’ recordings remotely if you have internet and electricity hooked up year round at your cottage. There are great advancements in technology regarding home security to take advantage of; be sure to check them out and see if any of them work for you and your family.
Doors, windows & locks
Don’t just lock up the windows and doors at the end of the season and pack up the car to head home. There are a few more steps to add the extra level of security. First, you’ll want to board up windows or secure them with wood sticks/blocks from the inside. You’ll also want to tie down and lock up your outdoor valuables such as propane tanks, BBQs, personal watercrafts, canoes, kayaks, and so on. Have a hefty, sturdy deadbolt lock installed on all doors, including on any outbuildings or sheds as well. For your interior valuables, take home what you can if you will be gone for an extended time, or hide it under beds or just out of the way for a hurried thief to notice.
Check your insurance policy
Cottages need insurance not just for potential damage from fire, extreme weather, pests or other occurrences, but for the contents as well. Connect with your insurance company to find out just what you are covered for, and be sure to send them photos of your cottage inside and out. The extra precautionary steps you take to secure your cottage, the lower your insurance rates might be.
Go ahead and enjoy every minute of your family cottage without the worry of theft or break ins. For any questions you may have about buying, selling or making changes to your cottage or home in the Parry Sound region, but sure to connect with us at Ares Law. We’re the experienced, knowledgeable, local legal team that knows this area best. Our specialty is real estate law, so let us help safeguard your investment. Call today at 705-746-6444.
