Think You’re Covered for Burglary While on Vacation? Read the Fine Print!

Every year, before setting off for a multi-week vacation, there are several precautions to take: unplugging electrical devices, taking out the trash, emptying the refrigerator, and securing all windows. Naturally, these steps are common sense and have become second nature for many travelers, whose only worry is to return from a sunny getaway to find their home has been burglarized or suffered a disaster such as water damage or a fire.

That’s where the value of home insurance really becomes apparent. Yet, many are unaware that seemingly minor details can significantly impact, or even nullify, their compensation if not checked before departure. While insurance policies generally look similar across different providers, specific clauses can make a world of difference. This is why it’s advisable to thoroughly read the fine print before packing your bags.

As reported by RMC, some home insurance policies may require actions like shutting off the water supply. If this isn’t done and a leak occurs, you could find yourself denied compensation on the grounds that you didn’t comply with the policy terms. Regarding burglaries, be cautious as well: in the event of an extended absence, some insurers might require protective measures such as setting an alarm. If you don’t have one, or if you have one but inadvertently disabled it by cutting the power, theft and related damages might not be covered.

A common dilemma among vacationers is whether to shut their shutters, which might signal to potential burglars that the house is empty. The answer is yes. Home insurance policies often require this as part of the theft protection guarantee. “If there are no shutters [or they are not closed], the insurer may deny claims if preventive measures were not followed,” states insurance comparison site LesFurets.com. Furthermore, many insurers specify that to be eligible for coverage, the insured must secure accessible windows with sturdy shutters, grills, or bars, especially those within 3 meters of the ground, for instance.

In essence, before you leave for a vacation, make sure to check the “prevention clause” or the “conditions for implementing the theft guarantee” in your homeowner’s insurance contract. You might find specific requirements you were unaware of, and knowing them can prevent disputes with your insurer and help ensure adequate coverage.