How to choose a home security system for holiday homes and second homes

Securing a second home comes with its own unique challenges, as the property may be unoccupied for long periods of time, in a more rural or remote location, and face increased risks during busier periods.

As such, it's all the more important to choose a home security system that is well suited to the holiday home, with a particular emphasis on remote monitoring, as you will not be there to check on the property year round.

In this guide, we guide you through the process of choosing a home security system for your second home, from conducting an initial assessment to selecting the devices and features you need.

Assess your second home's security needs

Before you start browsing, it's important you take stock of your property's location, layout and occupancy status so you can make the best choice when it comes to buying a security system.

At Verisure, a security consultant will come out to conduct a home assessment, ensuring they understand the property's characteristics to guide you through the process of finding the perfect solution for your needs.

Location and environment

Firstly, consider where your property is situated. If it is in a rural setting rather than in a city or town, how far are the nearest neighbours? And the nearest police station? The bigger the distance, the more important features such as professional monitoring become.

The location of your property may also influence your choice of outdoor security equipment such as cameras; if it is in an area where there is frequent rain- and snowfall, you will want to choose sturdy, weatherproof devices.

Property layout

Factors such as the property's size, the number of entry points, any outbuildings or garages will have a big impact on the composition of your home security system. You'll also want your system to be able to protect your property if it has waterfront access or a large backyard.

How often the home is occupied

Whether you stay in your holiday home for half of the year or for more regular, shorter stays will also dictate the kind of security system you opt for. Those leaving their home unattended for a longer period of time will want to consider devices requiring less maintenance, for example.

Key features and devices to look for in a security system for second homes

Once you've taken stock of your second home's property needs, it's time to shop around for an appropriate home security system. Below are some features we'd recommend prioritising when picking your security devices.

• Reliable remote access. As you won't always be in the property to check on it, a smart home security system with remote app control is an absolute must. You'll want to be able to arm and disarm your system remotely, check on its health, and of course receive alerts in the event of a trigger. Verisure security systems can all be monitored from the Verisure App on any smartphone or mobile device. The Smart Remote Control also allows you to set different modes for your system, such as “home” or “away”, letting you customise the level of protection you need at any time.
• Professional monitoring. As second homes are often more remote and left unattended for a certain period of time, we recommend opting for professional monitoring. It means that a team of security professionals is on hand 24/7 to respond to any triggers in your system, assess the situation and dispatch security guards, alert the police, the fire brigade and/or an ambulance if necessary.

• External deterrents. Whether that's a deterrent sign to show your house is secured or an outdoor camera on the front of your property, these act as a first line of defence, dissuading potential intruders from even attempting to enter your home. In particular, we'd recommend outdoor cameras with floodlights such as the Arlo XL Outdoor Wireless Security Camera, which has a built-in motion-activated light to expose anyone coming up to your property.

• Two-way audio.This is a particularly important feature for second homes left unoccupied for weeks at a time. Devices with two-way audio let you hear but importantly also speak to potential intruders, letting them know the property is monitored and security professionals are on the way. The Arlo Indoor Security Camera, Video Doorbell and the Verisure Siren, Voice, Keypad units are all equipped with this feature, allowing you to interact with people coming up to and entering your property, deterring them from going any further. Two-way audio can also be helpful outside of breaking and entering situations, to speak to delivery drivers or maintenance staff, for example.

• Video or photo capture. As you might not be on the scene in the event of an intrusion, having devices which can capture evidence of the burglars is important to ensure effective law enforcement response. For instance, the Verisure GuardVision™ Photo Detector uses night vision and motion detection to take a burst of photos of intruders, sending them to the Verisure Alarm Receiving Centre.

• Door and window sensors. These discreet devices are placed around the entry points to your home and detect impact and vibrations on your doors and windows, alerting you and the professionals monitoring your system of any attempted intrusion.

• Motion detection.Devices equipped with motion sensors are important to alert you of any unexpected movement in or outside your property. These could be outdoor or indoor cameras, video doorbells or motion sensors placed inside your home.

• Environmental sensors. Water leak detectors, freeze sensors and smoke detectors are great for added peace of mind as you may not always be property in the event of water or fire damage. The Verisure Monitored Smoke Alarm can notify the Alarm Receiving Centre if it detects smoke in the air, sending 3 images from connected cameras to help security professionals correctly assess the situation and respond appropriately.

• Battery and cellular backup. Devices with backup power and/or internet connection ensure your system stays online and is still able to alert you in case of unexpected activity, even in the event of a power outage or broadband drop-out. The Verisure Central Alarm Unit, for example, is mains-powered but comes with a minimum 48-hour battery backup.

Tips to maintain your second home's home security system

Once your system is installed at your property, it's paramount that you conduct some basic maintenance on it, particularly if you don't live there full-time. Below are some of the things we recommend you do when you visit your second home to ensure the efficacy and longevity of your home security system.

• Conduct routine checks via the Verisure App. This one can be done remotely, and we'd recommend doing it every few weeks to ensure your system is running as it should be.
• Make sure your hardware and software are up-to-date, and schedule an update if not.
• Schedule regular physical inspections, whether that's when you visit the property, or a neighbour or property manager. Check that your sensors and cameras are clean, unobstructed and powered properly for maximum efficiency.

If any issues arise with your alarm system or security devices, Verisure's lifetime maintenance guarantee means any repairs or upgrades are taken care of by security experts, for free.

Ready to build the perfect home security system for your holiday home or second home? Fill in this short questionnaire to be put in touch with Verisure security experts.

Frequently Asked Questions about home security systems for holiday homes

What is the average cost of installing a home security system in a second home?

The cost of a home security system will vary significantly based on how many cameras and sensors it includes, which provider you opt for, and whether you choose added options such as professional installation and monitoring.

Is it legal to put a home security system in an Airbnb?

Yes, you can install a home security system in an Airbnb, but you have to comply with several rules to make it legal. Guests have to be clearly informed of the presence of any sensors or cameras, and they are strictly prohibited inside the home. Security cameras and sensors should be placed in exterior areas only, and not in any areas where guests can expect privacy such as hot tubs or saunas.

What can I do to protect my second home?

Aside from having neighbours regularly check in, a home security system is a great way of protecting your second home when you're away. External deterrent signs and outdoor cameras with floodlights go a long way to prevent intrusions, and sensors and cameras alert you of any attempted break-in and record evidence so you can send it to law enforcement.