Making your apartment "vacation-ready"

This way, you can head off on vacation with peace of mind.

Close all windows and doors completely

Before leaving, you should check all windows and doors.

It is important to note that:

• Do not leave the window tilted
• Keep balcony and patio doors closed whenever possible
• Lock the front door securely
• Check basement or side entrances

Make your apartment look lived-in

A noticeably long absence can attract unwanted attention.

The following are helpful:

• Timers for lights
• Do not keep the roller shutters closed all the time

Have your mailbox emptied regularly

A full mailbox is often a sign that no one is home.

So ask your neighbors, friends, or relatives:

• to empty the mailbox regularly
• remove the ad
• to look at the apartment

Be careful with vacation posts on social media

Vacation photos and status updates should ideally be visible only to friends and family. Public posts can indicate that you’ll be away for an extended period.

Preparing the balcony and plants

Before you leave, it is recommended that you:

• Water the plants again
• Set up balcony furniture in a weather-protected area
• secure loose items

This will help prevent damage caused by wind or severe weather.

Don't forget the kitchen and the trash

Perishable foods should be used up or thrown away whenever possible.

Also useful:

• Dispose of trash
• Empty the dishwasher
• Leave the dishwasher door slightly open

This helps prevent unpleasant odors and moisture.

Check electrical appliances and water

Devices that are not in use should be turned off whenever possible.

It's also helpful to:

• Unplug any unnecessary devices
• Turn off power strips
• Turn off the water supply to the washing machine or dishwasher

This helps reduce electricity consumption and water damage.

Notify key contacts

It can be helpful for people you trust to know how to reach you in an emergency. Having a spare key on hand with someone you trust can also be helpful in an emergency.