top cx logo
cx logo
Explorearrow down
search icon

Close shutters when on holiday

HOLIDAY check-lists this summer should contain one item in block capitals: check your home insurance policy.

Most policies tell you to close the shutters if you are going to be away from home – some even specify for periods of longer than 12 hours – and you must comply. Even if you feel this is an advertisement to thieves your insurer can refuse to pay out if you refuse and are raided.

Insurers federation Assemblée Plénière des Sociétés d’Assurances Dommages says most raiders gain access through a main door and recommends multi-point locking doors with the A2P label – which are guaranteed to keep out a thief for five minutes, long enough to make them look elsewhere.

A lock will cost up to €500, plus €150 for installation. For more complete cover fit anti-jemmy brackets or even armour the door. Brackets called cornières anti-pince cost €200 but an armoured door will cost up to €4,000.

Apsad says some insurers will demand bars on windows but it also recommends householders use windows with the “Saflex Inside” logo.

Inside the house, take photographs of valuables and then lock them away. Take a note of your mobile phone’s IMEI number to block it in case of theft.

Get help from the police when they set up Opération Tranquillité Vacances in the July and August school holidays and they will call past your empty house to check it is safe. Fill in a form at the gendarmerie or commissariat de police. It is a free service.

Break-ins are just one problem and you should unplug all electrical appliances, shut off water and gas and shut doors and windows.

Resident or second-home owner in France?
Benefit from our daily digest of headlines and how-to's to help you make the most of life in France
By joining the newsletter, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy
See more popular articles
The Connexion Help Guides
featured helpguide
Healthcare in France*
Featured Help Guide
- Understand the French healthcare system, how you access it and how you are reimbursed - Useful if you are new to the French healthcare system or want a more in-depth understanding - Reader question and answer section Aimed at non-French nationals living here, the guide gives an overview of what you are (and are not) covered for. There is also information for second-home owners and regular visitors.
Get news, views and information from France