Summer is one of the busiest travel seasons in Toronto. Whether you’re heading to the cottage for the weekend or leaving the country for a longer vacation, protecting your home before you leave should be a top priority.

Unfortunately, empty homes can become easy targets for burglars during the summer months. The good news is that a few simple security upgrades and precautions can dramatically reduce the risk of break-ins.

Here’s a complete summer vacation security checklist for Toronto homeowners before leaving home this season.

 

1. Check All Door Locks Before You Leave

Your front door is your home’s first line of defense. Before leaving for vacation, inspect every exterior lock to make sure it works properly.

Look for:

  • Loose deadbolts
  • Keys sticking inside the lock
  • Worn-out hardware
  • Doors that don’t close securely

If your locks are old or damaged, consider replacing them with high-security locks or smart locks for added protection.

Many Toronto homeowners also choose to rekey their locks before vacation, especially after moving into a new property or losing spare keys.

 

2. Upgrade to a Smart Lock

Smart locks are becoming increasingly popular across Toronto because they provide convenience and added security.

Benefits of smart locks include:

  • Keyless entry
  • Remote locking and unlocking
  • Temporary access codes for family or pet sitters
  • Activity tracking through mobile apps

Some smart lock systems can also integrate with security cameras and home automation systems.

If you frequently travel during the summer, a smart lock can give you peace of mind while you’re away.

 

3. Don’t Hide Spare Keys Outside

Hiding a spare key under the mat or flower pot is one of the oldest tricks in the book – and burglars know exactly where to look.

Instead:

  • Leave a spare key with a trusted friend or family member
  • Use a secure lockbox
  • Install a smart lock with temporary codes

Avoid making your home an easy target with predictable hiding spots.

 

4. Make Your Home Look Occupied

An empty-looking home can attract unwanted attention. Before leaving Toronto for vacation, make your property appear active and lived in.

Helpful tips:

  • Use light timers indoors
  • Keep some blinds partially open
  • Pause mail and package deliveries
  • Ask a neighbor to park in your driveway occasionally
  • Have someone mow the lawn if you’ll be away for a long time

Small details can make a big difference in deterring burglars.

 

5. Secure Sliding Doors and Windows

Many homeowners focus on front doors but forget about patio doors and basement windows.

Before leaving:

  • Check all window locks
  • Add security bars to sliding doors
  • Remove valuables from visible areas
  • Test alarm sensors if installed

Weak windows and patio doors are common entry points during residential break-ins.

 

6. Be Careful What You Share on Social Media

Posting vacation photos in real time can unintentionally tell people your home is empty.

It’s safer to:

  • Wait until you return home before posting
  • Avoid publicly announcing travel dates
  • Limit location sharing on social media apps

Homeowners often overlook digital security when planning a vacation.

 

7. Test Your Home Security System

If you already have an alarm or camera system, make sure everything is functioning properly before you leave.

Check:

  • Camera batteries
  • Motion sensors
  • Mobile notifications
  • Wi-Fi connection
  • Emergency contacts

Modern home security systems work best when paired with strong locks and secure entry points.

 

8. Consider Rekeying Your Locks

If you recently moved into a new condo or house in Toronto, rekeying your locks is one of the smartest security decisions you can make.

You never know:

  • How many copies of the old keys exist
  • Who may still have access
  • Whether contractors or previous tenants kept spare keys

Rekeying is often more affordable than replacing all the locks while still improving security.

 

9. Don’t Forget Garage Security

Garages are commonly overlooked during vacation preparations.

Before leaving:

  • Lock all garage entry doors
  • Disconnect automatic garage door openers if possible
  • Keep valuables out of sight
  • Never leave garage remotes visible inside parked vehicles

An unsecured garage can provide direct access to your home.

 

10. Schedule a Professional Lock Inspection

If you’re unsure about your home’s security, a professional locksmith can inspect your locks and recommend upgrades before your trip.

A locksmith can help with:

  • Lock repairs
  • Rekeying services
  • Smart lock installation
  • High-security deadbolts
  • Emergency lock issues

Professional security upgrades can help protect your home while you enjoy your summer vacation.

 

Final Thoughts

Summer vacations should be relaxing – not stressful. Taking a few preventative security measures before leaving your Toronto home can help reduce the risk of break-ins and give you greater peace of mind while traveling.

Whether you need lock repairs, rekeying services, or smart lock installation, preparing your home before vacation is always a smart investment in your family’s safety.