Connie Phillips Insurance Blog

Keeping an up-to-date inventory of your possessions is a good measure prior to leaving your home for an extended period of time, in case you need to make a claim against your home insurance in Maryland. However, taking a few extra steps to secure your home before you leave may help you prevent being burgled in the first place.

Perhaps one of the most common forms of entry is through doors, so it is important that you secure them with the correct locks. They should be rated ANSI grade one, which is the highest rating and has the ability to withstand more pressure should the would-be intruder wish to attempt to charge the door to break the lock. The grade number should be printed on the package of the lock when it is purchased. Doors should also be made of solid wood or other strong substance such as metal, and fit securely in the door jamb for the same reason.

Some extra security measures on your door include replacing the current hinge with a stronger version which includes longer screws. However, don't just secure the front door - ensure the same is done for all exterior doors including the back door and any patio doors.

The key is not necessarily to make your house impregnable, but to make it so difficult for would-be burglars that they decide to move on. Before you leave for your trip, make sure your home insurance in Maryland is up to date and find out if your extended absence will affect your coverage. For help with any queries on this, don't hesitate to contact one of our agents.