Second home security in France
Posted by Admin 12.07.2010 | 0 Comments
Q. I have a second home in France, which I try to visit several times a year. I cannot be there all the time, however, so how do I make sure that it is safe from crime? Francis Street, Wellington
A. Regardless of the location, any property left unoccupied for any length of time may become a target for criminals. There are many cost-effective steps that you can take to reduce the risk and make your property more secure.
The first thing to consider is the integrity of the structure itself. Is the brickwork sound? Are the window and door frames rotten, making it easy for burglars to break in? Next, look at the quality of the doors, windows and locks themselves. Do they meet European standards?
Whenever I’m advising people on relocating, I suggest that they integrate into the local community. By doing so, you cultivate friendships with neighbours who may then be willing to keep an eye on things when you’re away.
Get to know the staff at the mairie and let them know when your house will be empty. Similarly, advise the local gendarmerie and your postman or woman. The gendarmes may be able to drop by on occasion to check that the house is secure while the postie may be able to stop your mail box from overflowing with junk mail – a sure sign that a house is empty. Remember to redirect any important mail before you leave.
You may have seen Nick Ross from BBC’s Crimewatch programme talking about ‘broken window syndrome’ recently. This is a term we use to describe a property that looks neglected. Overgrown gardens, shabby paintwork and litter send out a message that no one is looking after the property and this in turn attracts criminals. If possible, get someone to tend your garden during your absence.
I cannot stress enough the importance of making sure that doors and windows are closed and locked. In the UK, over 50 per cent of burglaries occur at properties that have been left unsecure.
Beware of careless talk in public places such as the tabac. You never know who else may be listening as you discuss your travel arrangements.
It is a fact that buildings with alarms fitted are less likely to be targeted by burglars than those without but before you rush out and invest in an alarm, consider the following. Do you know what type of alarm would suit your needs and your pocket?
An audible alarm in an isolated location may be a deterrent in the first instance but having activated it, if there is no visible response, the burglar will soon realise that they can continue looting your property, unhindered.
And what if you do have neighbours?You may return to find yourself very unpopular both with your neighbours and the gendarmerie if your alarm keeps going off in the early hours. You must leave instructions and the means to disarm the alarm with a trusted person.
There are companies that provide a monitoring service. Alternatively there are devices on the market that notify you of a break-in and CCTV systems that you can monitor via your computer. The amount you choose to spend should reflect the value of the items being protected.
A simple measure you can take is to ensure that nothing of real value is kept in your second home and that what you do have has been property marked. Again there are inexpensive methods that can be used but you should use clear signage that states in both French and English that your property has been marked for identification purposes. Examples of marking techniques are microchipping, smart water or a simple marker pen.
Consider fitting items of value with a simple tracking device. Always keep photographs and records of serial numbers. Keep your valuables under lock and key and if you have shutters – use them.
Check with your insurer that your home is covered while you are away and that you carry adequate insurance for the contents. It is advisable to have a basic home security survey carried out. Following the recommendations may well reduce your insurance premiums and will reduce the risk of your property being targeted during your absence.