As a holiday season approaches many people take the opportunity to head away for a well-earned break. While holidays are a time to relax and recharge, they can also unfortunately present a prime opportunity for opportunistic crime. Empty homes are more vulnerable to break-ins, especially in periods where many properties may be left unattended.
And while strata living has significant security advantages, such as it being much more difficult to observe when you’re not at home and there’s no activity on the property, there are still ways that a holiday can give away that you’re not around. Mail piling up in the letter box, for example.
For owners living in Strata-titled properties, there are a few unique advantages when it comes to preparing your home for the holiday period. At MBCM, we have seen time and time again that some proactive planning and a little neighbourly cooperation can go a long way in protecting your property.
Why Holidays Pose a Higher Risk
Public holidays and school breaks often correlate with a rise in petty crimes like break-and-enters, mail theft, and in some rarer cases vandalism. Opportunitist petty criminals tend to target homes that appear unoccupied – full mailboxes, dark windows, and no movement for several days can all be giveaways.
In smaller Strata blocks, where residents often recognise their neighbours and notice unfamiliar activity, you already have a layer of passive security. But that doesn’t mean you should skip the usual precautions.
Top Tips for Holiday Preparation in Strata Communities
- Let a Trusted Neighbour Know You’re Away One of the biggest advantages of Strata living is community. Let your immediate neighbours know your travel dates and consider sharing a phone number in case anything looks suspicious or urgent. In smaller properties, this kind of communication can make a big difference.
- Pause Deliveries and Clear the Mailbox Overflowing letterboxes are a tell-tale sign that nobody’s home. If your mail area is visible to passers-by, arrange for a neighbour to collect your mail or place a temporary hold on deliveries.
- Secure Windows, Doors and Balconies Double-check all potential entry points, including balcony doors or windows. Even upper-level apartments can be accessed by determined intruders. Use window locks where possible and don’t leave valuables in plain sight.
- Use Timers for Lights or Devices Light timers or smart home systems can create the appearance that someone is home, even when the unit is empty. Schedule a few lights or a radio to turn on in the evening to deter would-be intruders. But make sure that you tell your neighbours! Otherwise they might well think that someone has broken in.
- Inform Your Strata Committee or Manager (If Relevant) For longer holidays (more than a few weeks), it is worthwhile to inform your Strata committee and your MBCM Strata Specialists manager. This is important for insurance purposes in the event that there are any issues during your absence and also explains why there is no activity in your residence. This information also assists if we need to manage any scheduled works, maintenance or fire inspections that might occur during your absence.
- Maintain Your Security Features Ensure that any shared security within your block, such as entry gates, garage doors or CCTV, are functioning correctly before you leave on holidays. If you notice something that needs attention, notify your Strata manager so it can be addressed promptly.
A Community Approach to Holiday Security
One of the overlooked benefits of living in a Strata community is the shared vigilance that comes with it. When neighbours know each other, unusual activity becomes more noticeable. Here are some simple ways to work together:
- Create a Holiday Register: If your community is tight-knit, consider creating a voluntary holiday register to let others know when units will be unoccupied.
- Watch for Strangers: Be mindful of unfamiliar individuals loitering around the building or common areas. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.
- Look After Each Other’s Units: Offer to take bins in and out, water a plant, or adjust blinds to make a neighbour’s property appear lived in while they’re away.
Final Reminders Before You Lock Up
- Set alarms, if installed.
- Unplug unnecessary electronics to prevent power surges.
- Secure any balcony furniture or items that could be moved or stolen.
- Store spare keys in a lockbox or give them to someone you trust – never hide them outside.
How MBCM Strata Specialists Can Support You
At MBCM Strata Specialists, we believe that good communication and community connection are key to safer, more secure Strata living. If you’re planning to be away due to an upcoming holiday, your local Strata manager is a valuable contact to advise to ensure any strata related matters run smoothly in your absence.
Whether you’re away for a few days or a few weeks, some simple preparations and a little neighbourly cooperation can go a long way in protecting your home and your peace of mind.
From all of us at MBCM Strata Specialists, travel safely and enjoy your holidays, wherever you may be heading off to, at any time of year!