There are plenty of things to prepare when you’re heading off on a trip, but maximising home security while you’re away is always a top priority. Fortunately, a smart security system can take the hassle out of securing your home, but there are some steps to take if you want to strengthen your home security while you’re away. With this in mind, take a look at the smart security checklist before you travel.

Set Smart Lighting Schedules to Simulate Occupancy

If no-one can tell that you’re away from home, thieves are less likely to target your property. By using smart lighting schedules to simulate occupancy, you can create the illusion that there’s someone at home around the clock. Either use preset schedules to mimic your daily routine or employ automation to switch lights on and off in accordance with external conditions, such as sunrise and sunset.

Check Your Door Entry and Camera Systems

If your property has door entry systems and CCTV cameras, it may seem sensible to check they’re functioning before you travel. However, if your smart security system is professionally installed by the Element 29 team, this is one thing you won’t have to worry about. We’ll receive real-time notifications if your system goes offline, which means we’ll know straight away if they stop working and can steps to rectify the issue and restore functionality.

Enable Alerts and Mobile Access

When you’re away from home, remote access and real-time notifications ensure you can view CCTV footage and receive instant updates when something happens on your property. Of course, you’ll want to check that you’ve set up notifications on your mobile devices and have enough cloud storage to avoid unwanted data loss.

Depending on the hardware you’ve got installed, you may also be able to control access to your property remotely. If a family member is popping by to take care of a pet, for example, you can unlock the door to enable them to enter the property simply by controlling the entry system from your mobile app. 

Automate Gates, Blinds and Security Systems

Automated gates and locking systems enhance perimeter security and help to keep anyone from gaining access to your property. This, combined with simulating occupancy via automated blinds and lighting, ensures you have multiple layers of security to keep your home safe.

While a comprehensive smart home security system may feature multiple devices, such as video doorbells, automated gates, CCTV cameras and more, a unified management platform, such as Crestron Home or Control4, makes it easy to control every aspect of your smart home. What’s more, Crestron Home and Control4 allow you to create your own automation programmes that can be used to mimic occupancy and strengthen security.

Back Up Your System Before You Go

Regular maintenance will help to ensure that your smart security system is always functioning optimally, but it’s worth checking the system is backed up before you set off on your travels. If firmware needs to be updated, for example, do this in advance so you can confirm the functionality of the system post-update.

If you’re worried about updating firmware or software yourself, our expert team is always on hand to help. From regular maintenance to ad hoc support, we can keep your system up to date and provide tailored services to meet your needs.

Boost Home Security with Smart Solutions

If you want to improve the security of your property, consider upgrading your existing system with smart solutions, such as 4K cameras, video intercoms, automated exterior lighting, door entry, occupancy simulation presets and more.

To find out how to strengthen your home security with smart technology, talk to our team now on 0207 720 7877, email us at info@element29.co.uk or send us a message here.