If not mobbing into your new house immediately, what security measures would you take?

[shoom]

E.g. those timed things that turn your lights on and off.
Ideas please!

That should say moving

exactly that - timer for lights and maybe a radio. At this time of year, christmas decorations visible through windows.

most important - visit it regularly, Extract post from the door, move curtains, turn up at random times.

and of course make sure the insurers know!

Change the locks, cut the grass in the spring.

Thanks, it's just a possibility just now but I want to be prepared.

As specialsubject said make sure your insurers know - some will refuse, some are okay. Then do what they say! They will have opinions about central heating/ water being drained etc. Also will you know your neighbours? They are potentially the most useful as they can alert you to any problems.

Thanks, it's just a few minutes walk away so I could visit every day. Good point about the insurance.

visit frequently and at random times. Come back sometimes after you've just left so no-one can feel confident you will not be back. Make friends with the neighbours and give them your number.

Check there is nothing left on the doormat or in the letterbox. Put the bin out, with rubbish in it, and bring it in promptly on bin day. Buy some cheap radio alarm clocks and have them come on at different times in different rooms. Have multiple lamps controlled by timers and have them go on at off at different but realistic times, including late night and early morning in front and back bedrooms. Tend the garden and mow the lawn. Keep the windows clean. Be seen pottering about.

Park a car outside sometimes if you have one to spare, or invite a friend or neighbour to park there. Put potted plants on the windowsills. Thick net curtains will make it difficult for anyone to see in.

In snow, drive and walk in and out to leave footsteps. Write off to get post.

Consider fitting a burglar alarm, preferably one that can phone your mobile(s).