Prepare your home in Spain for a safe summer: Essential tips before you head off on holiday

At Generali Expatriates, we understand that everyone wants to make the most of summer. But while you're thinking about the beach, your upcoming holiday, or that dream trip, it's also important to take some time to consider how to ensure your home stays safe and secure while you're away.

Unfortunately, the likelihood of being burgled is higher during the summer months. That’s why we’d like to offer some tips to help minimise the risk of a break-in, and to remind you to make sure you have the RIGHT cover in place for any unexpected events!

Things to check at home before heading off on your summer holiday

• Speak with your insurance agent to make sure that your contents cover is properly calculated, including furniture, white goods, electronic appliances, clothes, jewellery, and personal belongings, etc.
• Check that your doors and windows are in good condition, and ensure that all locks are functioning properly. You might also want to consider installing a home security system to reduce the chances of falling victim to burglars.
• Make your home look lived in. For example, you can invest in timer switches for your lights, which will create the impression that someone is at home.
• Ask a neighbour or friend to keep an eye on your property and collect your post from the mailbox.
• Create a list of emergency contacts, just in case something goes wrong at home.
• Avoid sharing your holiday plans or photos on social media that could reveal you're away. Or adjust your privacy settings to ensure you're not sharing personal details with the wrong people.
• Be mindful of squatters! For peace of mind, Generali Expatriates offers Legal Defence in case of illegal occupation of your property.

Furthermore, we must not forget that there are also little inconveniences that come with the heat, such as annoying pests and insects that can invade your home! That’s why Generali Expatriates includes one annual service for pest control, fumigation, and/or disinfection as an optional cover.

In the summer months, extreme heat and storms can sometimes cause damage to your property. To prevent heat damage to your home, consider using window shades or reflective films to keep your home cool. Additionally, ensure your air conditioning system is in good working order before the heat peaks. Storms are common in summer, so take steps to secure any loose items outside, such as furniture or garden decorations, and make sure your roof and gutters are well-maintained to avoid water damage.

Also, think about your garden furniture. While summer storms are not uncommon, having cover for your garden furniture and the garden itself can help protect both your assets and your peace of mind.

If you own a second home that you let out for holiday rentals, it’s crucial that you cover this property too. Ensure that you have specific insurance for your rental property, including public liability for your guests.

Get expert advice and tailored insurance coverage

At Generali Expatriates, we’ve tailored our Home Insurance plans to provide the best solutions for your individual needs, giving you the option to have cover for all these potential scenarios.

Understanding that every customer’s requirements are unique, we've created additional coverage options that allow you to enhance and complement your home insurance. Regardless of the plan you choose, you can add Optional Packs to ensure that your insurance is perfectly suited to your needs.

For more details, find your nearest broker or agent here, or request a quote and one of our experts will be in touch as soon as possible. Our team is here to offer friendly, expert advice, in your own language, about the best coverage options available to suit your specific needs.