WHAT ARE THE RISKS OF LEAVING A HOME UNOCCUPIED?

Without a homeowner or a tenant in situ, houses are more susceptible to break-ins, vandalism, degradation, fire, and many more potential hazards. What's necessary is that someone monitors the property regularly to spot the early signs and take steps to prevent them from causing further damage.

HOW LONG CAN A HOUSE BE LEFT UNOCCUPIED?

Exactly how long you can leave your house empty before you'll need to tell your insurance provider will depend on who handles your policy. Most insurers will need to know if your property is unoccupied for more than 30 consecutive days. They will then factor in the increased risks into your policy terms.

HOW TO SECURE AN EMPTY PROPERTY

Here at VPM Cambridge, we know that leaving your home empty can be a little daunting. That's why we're here to assist. We've also created this handy checklist to help you feel more at ease before you go:

• Arrange for mail to be attended. Homeowners often believe that they've arranged everything online, but in fact there are always items that arrive through the door ( worse still, are left sticking out of the letterbox). Have your mail forwarded or scanned and e-mailed to you. Things like TV licence reminders and council tax demands are common issues.

• Unplug all electronics to reduce fire risk.

• Empty the fridge and freezer to prevent unpleasant odours.

• Set thermostat to a moderate temperature to keep costs down and to prevent freezing pipes over the winter months.

• Check smoke detectors and their batteries. (It's a common problem for batteries to become exhausted and the alarm will continue peeping).

• Remember to have your house plants watered and taken care of.

• Consider turning off water supply to prevent leaks.

• Clean the house to avoid musty smells.

• Arrange for someone to flush toilets and run the water frequently. Things like Legionnaires disease can begin to fester in the pipes if they become stagnant.

• Let your home insurance provider know what your plans are with the house. After 30 days unoccupied, they may need to amend your policy terms.

• Utilities may need to be adjusted to save money on bills while you're away.

• Remember that you'll still have to pay council tax on an unoccupied property. Inform your local council tax office that you'll be away - you may receive a 25% discount.

• Keep the garden and driveway cleared to prevent overgrowth and appearance of neglect.

• Ensure that the property is checked weekly.