For many, a country home is a dream, a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. It’s where you picture yourself enjoying retirement, surrounded by nature, perhaps in a charming village or on a sprawling bit of countryside.

But until that dream becomes a reality, your country home may serve as a secondary property, left empty for most of the year. An empty home can quickly become a target for opportunistic burglars, squatters, or even just nature’s wear and tear. So how can you keep your country home safe when you’re not there to look after it?

Rent It Out on Airbnb

One of the most effective ways to keep your country home from looking abandoned is to not leave it empty at all! Renting it out on platforms like Airbnb is a great way to keep your property occupied, and it comes with the added benefit of earning you some extra income when you’re not using it.

You don’t have to manage the logistics yourself either. There are plenty of property management agencies that specialise in handling Airbnb rentals. An occupied home is far less likely to attract burglars or vandals, and the regular comings and goings can keep the house feeling lived-in.

Plus, you get the added peace of mind knowing your property is being looked after, even when you’re not around.

Just be sure to vet your guests carefully or let your property manager handle it for you to ensure that your home is in good hands.

Install a Remote Security System

Technology has come a long way, and one of the best ways to monitor your country home from afar is by installing a remote security system. With the ability to access real-time footage and alerts straight to your phone, you’ll be notified if something unexpected happens, whether it’s an attempted break-in or just a wandering animal setting off a motion sensor.

Remote security systems come in a variety of options. You can choose from basic setups that include motion detectors and window sensors, or go for more advanced options with cameras, alarm systems, and even floodlight features. Many modern systems also come with an app that allows you to arm or disarm your security remotely, view live camera feeds, and receive instant alerts for any unusual activity.

Install a Solid Lock on All Doors

It might sound like a no-brainer, but having a strong, solid lock on your doors is essential for protecting your country home. A standard door lock might be enough for your primary residence, where you come and go regularly, but a secondary home that’s often unoccupied requires something more robust. It’s a good idea to reach out to a locksmith for tips.

Squatters and burglars tend to target properties that are easy to enter, so it’s essential to make it difficult for them to get in. Consider upgrading to a deadbolt or even smart locks that require a passcode or fingerprint. Reinforce all entry points, including back doors and sliding doors, to ensure they’re as secure as possible.

Also, don’t forget about your windows! Ensure all windows are fitted with secure locks, particularly those on the ground floor.

Make Friends with Your Neighbours

Building a good relationship with your country neighbours is one of the best ways to protect your home when you’re not around. While you might not be there often, having someone local who can keep an eye on your property is invaluable. Friendly neighbours can act as a first line of defence, noticing if something seems out of place or if there are any suspicious activities happening near your home.

A quick call to the local police or to you if something seems off can prevent any potential issues. Plus, they might also be willing to help with little things like collecting post or parking their car in your driveway to make the house look occupied.

Not only does this help with security, but it’s also great for building a community connection when you eventually move there full-time.

Set Timed Lights or Use Smart Lighting Systems

Nothing screams “empty house” more than a dark home night after night. Installing timed lights or smart lighting systems can help create the illusion that someone is home. You can set the lights to come on at specific times in the evening and switch off later at night, mimicking the typical lighting pattern of an occupied house.

For even more control, consider smart lighting systems that allow you to control the lights from your phone. Some systems even let you set randomised patterns, so it’s not as predictable as standard timed lights.

This simple yet effective strategy can deter potential intruders who are more likely to target properties that look empty.

Arrange Regular Maintenance and Inspections

Even if your country home is well-secured, it still needs to be looked after. Routine maintenance is crucial to prevent minor issues from turning into major problems, especially in homes that aren’t used regularly.

Consider hiring a local caretaker or property manager to perform regular inspections, both inside and out. They can check for issues like leaks, pests, or damage caused by the weather. They can also ensure the house is aired out and that everything stays in working order, from the plumbing to the electrics.

Regular maintenance also keeps the property looking tidy and well-kept, which helps maintain the value of the home and makes it less likely to be targeted by vandals or squatters. A property that looks neglected can quickly become a target, so it’s essential to keep it in good condition, even when you’re not there.

Owning a country home is a wonderful escape from the chaos of everyday life, but it also comes with the responsibility of keeping it safe and secure when you’re not around. By renting it out, installing a remote security system, reinforcing your locks, and enlisting the help of neighbours, you can protect your property from potential threats.

Incorporating timed lighting systems and scheduling regular maintenance will keep your country home in great shape and less of a target. With a little bit of planning and the right security measures in place, you can rest easy knowing your future retirement haven is well-protected, even when you’re miles away.

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