Leaving your home unattended during vacations can be stressful, especially when you live abroad. As an expat in Spain, you might worry about burglary, damage, or unexpected incidents while you’re away. 

But with the right preparation and a comprehensive home insurance policy, you can travel with peace of mind knowing your property is protected. Here’s a clear checklist on how to secure your house during your holidays in Spain — so you don’t have to come back to any unpleasant surprises.

First, make sure your home insurance policy covers your property during your absence. Many expats don’t realize that some policies have restrictions or require you to inform the insurer if you will be away for an extended period. Next, physically prepare your home by securing doors and windows, turning off utilities where possible, and setting timers for lights to simulate presence. Lastly, consider practical tips like asking a neighbor to keep an eye on your property or installing security cameras for extra protection.

By following this checklist and choosing the right home insurance for expats in Spain, you will reduce risks and keep your house safe during your vacation. Read on to discover detailed steps and expert advice to ensure your home is well protected

Why home protection matters for expats in Spain

Living abroad can mean fewer chances to check on your property regularly. Spain’s sunny climate and popularity among tourists can sometimes attract unwanted attention to unattended homes. According to the Spanish Ministry of Interior, residential burglaries increased in certain regions popular with expats. This makes securing your house and having proper insurance more crucial than ever.

Having the right house insurance means your investment is safeguarded against theft, fire, water damage, and other common risks. For expats, finding a policy tailored to your needs is essential because standard local insurance might not fully cover absentee owners or long periods away.

Checklist to protect your home in Spain on vacations

1. Review your home insurance policy

• Confirm coverage during absence: Check that your insurance covers your home even if you are away for weeks or months.
  
• Understand exclusions: Some policies exclude certain damages if the house is left unattended for too long.
  
• Inform your insurer: Notify your provider about your travel plans to avoid any issues with claims later.
  

2. Secure your property physically

• Lock all doors and windows: Double-check all entry points, including less visible ones like basement windows.
  
• Install timers for lights and electronics: This simulates occupancy and deters burglars.
  
• Shutter or secure balconies and terraces: These can be easy access points.
  
• Store valuables safely: Remove or hide valuable items and documents.
  
• Turn off non-essential utilities: Water, gas, and electricity should be switched off if possible to prevent accidents.
  

3. Ask for help and use technology

• Inform trusted neighbors or friends: Ask someone to watch your property and collect mail.
  
• Use security cameras or alarm systems: Monitor your home remotely to detect any suspicious activity.
  
• Consider automatic irrigation: If you have a garden, keep it healthy without having to be there.
  

Does my home insurance cover theft when I’m away?

Most standard policies cover theft, but it’s essential to confirm if coverage applies during long absences.

What if my home is damaged by water or fire while I’m on vacation?

Proper home insurance usually covers fire and water damage. Always check the limits and conditions of your policy.

Can I get discounts if I install security systems?

Many insurers offer reduced premiums if your home has alarms or cameras, improving your 

Protecting your home in Spain while you’re on vacation doesn’t have to be complicated. The key is combining a tailored home insurance policy for expats with practical security measures. Before you travel, review your insurance, secure your property physically, and ask for help from neighbors or technology to keep an eye on things.

If you want personalized advice or the best home insurance for expats in Spain, contact The Insurance Centre today. We’ll help you find the right coverage so you can enjoy your holidays worry-free.

The Insurance Centre

About Our Team
At The Insurance Centre, we’ve been helping clients since 1999 with friendly, professional, and multilingual insurance services tailored especially for expatriates in Spain. We work with top-tier, reputable insurance providers and have proudly received awards for excellence in customer service and expat insurance for the past 10 years.
We are fully registered with the Dirección General de Seguros (DGS) and are members of the Colegio de Mediadores. Our team speaks English, Spanish, French, and Swedish, ensuring clear and confident communication with clients from around the world.