Holiday home security tips & second home insurance guide

In a recent survey, 47% of British respondents stated that they liked the idea of having a holiday home abroad. When it comes to holidays, 55% said they prefer extended visits and repeat visits. This is made easier by owning a regular base abroad.¹

Owning a holiday cottage or second home abroad is a luxury for individuals in the UK. There's a preference for European destinations due to shorter travel times and ease of access. Popular destinations include Spain, Portugal, France, Italy, Greece, and Malta. In Spain alone, 139,102 properties were sold in 2024 to non-residents, with British citizens accounting for 8.6% of the total.² However, many of these properties are often left unattended for long periods. This increases the risk of security issues and the need for effective protection measures.

Whilst a second home provides a private retreat, they also face security challenges that can pose financial risks. From theft and vandalism to weather-related damage and the vulnerabilities that come with leaving your home unattended, second homes require their own protection. Properties without proper security devices, such as a burglar alarm, become attractive targets for would be burglars looking to commit crime. The risk of a break in increases significantly when a property is unoccupied for long periods.

This makes it essential to have the right insurance policy in place to mitigate potential losses. Prompt reporting to the police and having systems that can record evidence are also critical components of a comprehensive security strategy. Managing these risks from afar can be complex. This is why comprehensive insurance and proactive security measures are crucial to protecting your investment.

Practical security steps to consider

When your holiday home is left vacant for long periods, following expert home security tips is vital to reduce the risk of break-ins and other security threats. Here are some practical steps to help keep your second home secure.

1. On-site physical security

Doors and windows: Invest in high-quality locks, including deadbolts and reinforced strike plates, especially on the front door. Ensure all windows open securely and consider adding security bars or grilles for easily accessible open windows, such as those on ground floors. Avoid leaving windows open unattended, as this can be a clear invitation for potential intruders.
Safes: Use a secure, bolted-down home safe for valuables and important documents. Ensure its fireproof and waterproof for added security. Additionally, consider using key safes to store a spare key securely. Avoiding obvious hiding spots that would be burglars often check.
Perimeter security: Secure the garden gate and fences with sturdy locks. Consider installing security lighting to illuminate entry points and deter intruders. Be mindful of telltale signs such as an unattended car or visible tools left outside. This can indicate the property is occupied or recently used, potentially attracting unwanted attention. Keeping these items out of sight helps maintain the appearance that the home is well cared for and monitored.

2. Technology and monitoring

Alarm systems: Install a monitored burglar alarm system with sensors on doors and windows. Consider a smart home security system that alerts you and local authorities immediately. This provides peace of mind when your property is left unattended.
CCTV: Use high-definition security cameras and CCTV cameras with night vision covering all entry points and vulnerable areas. Adding warning signs alerting visitors that CCTV cameras are in operation may also act as a deterrent. These cameras can record evidence of any suspicious activity, accessible remotely.
Smart sensors: Incorporate smart sensors such as motion sensors, glass-break sensors, and flood detectors to provide early warnings of potential intrusions or hazards. Smoke detectors integrated into the system enhance safety by alerting you to fire risks.
Remote access: Opt for smart home security system technology that allows you to monitor and control security devices remotely. You can see a live feed through any mobile device connected through the internet. This includes viewing live feeds from video doorbells and smart doorbells, receiving instant alerts, and managing settings from anywhere.
Additional smart devices: Utilise smart plugs and timer switches to control lighting and appliances at irregular intervals. This creates the impression that the property is occupied even during long periods of absence. This helps deter potential intruders by avoiding telltale signs of an unattended property.

Together, these technologies provide a comprehensive approach to monitoring your holiday home. This enables you to respond quickly to any threats and maintain security from afar.

3. Property management and local contacts

Trusted caretakers: Consider employing a reliable local property manager who can conduct regular inspections, handle maintenance, and respond promptly to any emergencies on your behalf. Their presence helps deter potential intruders and ensures your holiday home is well looked after during long periods of vacancy.
Neighbours: Build good relationships with neighbours who can keep an eye on your property when you’re not there. They can be invaluable in noticing telltale signs of suspicious activity or a possible break in. They can alert you or the authorities if needed.
Local agents and security experts: Engage local estate or security experts familiar with the area’s risks and regulations for tailored advice on protecting your property. They can assist in setting up effective security devices and recommend the right insurance cover.

In case of emergencies or suspected criminal activity, do not hesitate to contact the police immediately to report any incidents or suspicious behaviour. Having a clear response plan involving local contacts and authorities is essential to maintaining the security of your second home.

4. Maintenance and winter preparation

Maintenance: Regularly carry out maintenance to prevent deterioration and keep your holiday home in good condition.
Prepare for winter: Winterise the home if it will be unused during colder months. This includes checking drain pipes, maintaining heating systems, and securing doors and windows against weather damage. To create the appearance that the property is occupied, use timer switches to control security lighting and other electrical devices at irregular intervals. Avoid leaving the property unattended for long periods to reduce the risk of break-ins or damage.

5. Documentation and record keeping

Inventory: Maintain a detailed inventory of all valuables kept in the property. Include clear descriptions of the key features of each item, along with photographs, valuations, and serial numbers where applicable. This comprehensive inventory is essential for both insurance purposes and in the event of a break in.
Documentation: Store copies of important documents relating to the property securely. This should ideally be onsite in a home safe and digitally in encrypted cloud storage. This should include your insurance policy and any other relevant paperwork. Keeping these documents accessible yet secure ensures you can quickly record evidence and provide necessary information to insurers and the police if needed.

Having well-organised documentation and record evidence not only supports claims but also helps demonstrate due diligence in protecting your holiday home.

6. Travel and access control

Property access: Property access should be carefully managed to enhance security, especially when your home is unattended for long periods. Limit the number of people who can gain access by controlling who holds keys or knows security codes. Avoid leaving a spare key in obvious places. Instead, use secure key safes or lockboxes with combination codes to store them safely.
Secure access: For added security, consider installing timer switches and smart home security systems. These allow you to control lighting and other devices remotely via a mobile device. This helps create the appearance that the property is occupied at irregular intervals, deterring potential intruders.

Always change access codes or combinations on key safes after any extended absences to prevent unauthorised entry. Additionally, ensure you have the right insurance policy in place that covers risks associated with your second home being left unattended. This comprehensive approach to property access control is essential to protect your investment and maintain peace of mind.

Second home insurance from Marsh Private Clients

In addition to these practical security measures, it's important to further secure your house with comprehensive second home insurance. At Marsh Private Clients, we can arrange cover tailored to the needs of you and your property.

Second home insurance covers the building and contents against risks including fire, theft, vandalism, and storm damage. Without the right cover, owners risk falling victim to unexpected losses. Cover can be extended to swimming pools, terraces, and tennis courts, as well as domestic employees. We can support with insurance for valuable contents such as fine art, antiques, jewellery, or other collections you may have in your property. Policies can also include the cost of travelling to your property in the case of an emergency.

As part of Marsh, a global network of insurance and risk experts, we are well placed to support you whether your property is in the UK or abroad. With offices in more than 130 countries worldwide, we can draw on local expertise and insights to support you. In addition, our specialist claims team ensures sensitive and efficient management of any claims.

Sources

1. myne-homes.com/holiday-home-ownership-a-changing-landscape
2. currencytransfer.com/where-can-uk-citizens-buy-property-abroad-in-2026