Leaving their houses unoccupied for extended periods of time can be a nerve-wracking experience for New Zealand home owners, especially when burglary statistics show that vacant properties are prime targets for intruders, and more so if the house is situated in an area that is known for high levels of break-ins. One of the most effective ways to protect Kiwi homes while their owners are away is to hire a house sitter. By simply living on the property, house sitters can clearly show that the home is being actively occupied, which significantly reduces the risk of break-ins, thefts, or wanton vandalism.
Here’s how NZ house sitters can act as a powerful deterrent to potential criminals.
1. Creating A Lived-In Appearance
Burglars often scout for telltale signs of an empty home, including:
Uncollected mail piling up in the mailbox Unlit windows at night Overgrown lawns and neglected gardens No visible vehicles parked on the property Closed windows on bright sunny days
A house sitter ensures that none of these red flags are present. They collect mail, water plants, take out the rubbish and recycling, and even adjust curtains or blinds daily. Their activity inside and outside the house gives the impression that someone is always home, making it a far less appealing target for criminals.
2. Visible Presence On The Property
The presence of a house sitter on the property disrupts a burglar’s sense of opportunity. Seeing movement through the windows, hearing sounds of someone inside, or a radio, or noticing lights switching on and off deters even the most determined intruders.
House sitters also help maintain a normal routine, such as parking a car in the driveway or putting out bins on collection day, further reinforcing the appearance of occupancy. This consistency makes it difficult for outsiders to detect that the homeowners are away.
3. Immediate Response To Suspicious Activity
While home security systems are valuable, they are reactive tools that only alert you after an incident has begun. A house sitter, on the other hand, provides real-time intervention.
If someone suspicious is lurking, a house sitter can investigate, switch on exterior lights, or even call the authorities if necessary. Their presence ensures that minor threats don’t escalate into actual crimes.
4. Protecting Against Opportunistic Crimes
Unoccupied homes are especially vulnerable to opportunistic crimes, such as package theft by ‘porch pirates’, vandalism, or petty break-ins. With a house sitter present, packages can be safely brought inside, windows and doors are routinely checked, and any signs of attempted entry can be immediately addressed.
House sitters can also make great use of the home’s existing security features, such as alarms or cameras, ensuring they are actively monitored and utilized. This proactive approach adds another layer of protection to the property.
5. Peace Of Mind While You’re Away
One of the greatest benefits of hiring a house sitter is the peace of mind it brings. Knowing that someone is actively living in and caring for your home means you can focus on your travels or obligations without worrying about its security.
Unlike an empty home that relies solely on automated systems, a house with a sitter benefits from human intuition and adaptability. Whether it’s spotting something out of place or responding to unexpected events, house sitters provide a level of vigilance that no security camera can match.
A Simple Solution To A Serious Problem
Hiring a house sitter is a straightforward yet highly effective way to deter burglaries and thefts. By creating the illusion of occupancy and providing a human presence, house sitters make your home a less attractive target for criminals.
If you’re planning to be away, consider investing in the security and peace of mind that comes with having a house sitter. It’s not just about keeping your property safe — it’s about ensuring you can leave home without a second thought, knowing it’s in capable and watchful hands.
2 Comments
Wayne Bulte
December 18 2024 at 1:57 PMWe use a house sitter every time we travel. They keep our home running smoothly — mail is collected, and often even the garden looks better than when we left!
Sam Wilson
December 2 2024 at 8:15 AMAs someone who lives in a high-theft area, I can confirm how valuable a house sitter can be. My sitter even noticed a damaged lock and had it fixed before it became an issue!