Security-Proof It Before You Regret It.

The countdown’s on.
The year’s winding down.
The coffee machine’s working overtime, and the office fridge is holding more leftovers than lunches.

Before you switch off for the holidays, take one last walk around your property not to admire it, but to protect it.

Each summer across Australia, the holiday period sees a spike in break-ins, burst pipes, and electrical faults.
Why?
Because most people assume everything will be fine once they lock the door.

Let’s make sure your property really is.

Why it matters

When buildings are shut down or lightly staffed over the holidays, risks rise. For example:

• According to an Australian insurer, unoccupied commercial properties can carry claims 350% higher than occupied ones. Windsor Management Insurance Brokers+1

• Holiday periods are a peak time for break-ins, vandalism and other losses in both homes and workplaces. Wilson Security+1

• Electrical faults, water leaks or unattended taps can trigger damage or fire risk when no one’s around. Phoenix Insurance Brokers Pty Ltd+1

So before you hit the “closed for the holidays” button, let’s tackle four key items that often get overlooked.

Your Pre-Holiday Security & Maintenance Checklist

1. Power Down Wisely 
Before you head off, switch off what you don’t need computers, printers, lights, kettles, the lot.
If you’re running a bigger site, isolate any unused circuits to save power and cut fire risk.
Just make sure your alarms and fire systems stay on.

2. Clear the Fridge 
Chuck out the perishables, wipe the shelves, and empty the bins.
Trust me nothing ruins the first day back like the smell of old leftovers.

3. Check Taps & Leaks 
Turn off taps tight and look for drips or leaks.
Have a quick peek at gutters and drains too.
A tiny leak now can turn into a disaster while you’re away.

4. Shut Down Tech 
Back up your files, log out, and power down.
Keep only the essentials running security cameras, alarms, or monitoring systems.

 Extra Considerations for Commercial & Residential Properties

For commercial properties:

• Conduct a quick risk assessment of the site: vulnerable access points, lighting issues, alarm status. HPD Security+1

• Let your security provider (mobile patrols, alarm company) know your holiday schedule, so they can monitor appropriately.

• Review insurance coverage: if the building is largely unoccupied, some insurers require notification or impose higher premiums. Windsor Management Insurance Brokers+1

For residential properties or home offices:

• Use timers on indoor/outdoor lights to give the appearance the place is occupied. CommLock+1

• Pause mail/newspaper deliveries or ask a neighbour to collect; an overflowing letterbox signals absence.

• Avoid posting travel plans on public social media visibility of your absence can attract risk. Eximm

A few minutes of care now can save weeks of stress later.
Walk through your property once more before you head off.
Power down, lock up, and double-check the small things.

When you come back in January, the only surprise you want waiting is a clean desk and a fresh start not a blown fuse or a leaky tap.

Stay safe, stay switched off, and enjoy your well-earned break.