As the summer holidays approach, many Australians are preparing to leave their homes empty for days or weeks. But while you’re away, unoccupied homes become prime targets for theft, water damage, and electrical faults, risks that can turn a relaxing break into an insurance nightmare.
According to NRMA Insurance claims data, theft and accidental-damage claims rise sharply in December and January, particularly in major cities where travel peaks. The most frequent losses aren’t structural; they’re personal: electronics, jewellery, bikes, tools, and portable valuables left inside unattended homes.
The Cost of an Empty House
Insurance claims surge during the holiday period because small issues compound. A slow leak unnoticed for a week destroys flooring. A power surge fries appliances. A break-in leads to missing electronics that owners struggle to identify or prove.
Most people assume their insurer will “just cover it”, but payouts often depend on documented proof, photos, serial numbers, receipts, and clear evidence that items existed and were owned. Without it, claims can be delayed or disputed.
The Pre-Departure Inventory Sprint
Before locking up for the holidays, a 30-minute documentation sweep can save weeks of post-event stress.
1. Photograph every room. Focus on high-value or portable items TVs, gaming systems, laptops, tools, cameras, bikes, and jewellery.
2. Capture serial numbers and models. These are critical for theft claims and device tracking.
3. Store proof digitally. Keep receipts, valuations, and warranty PDFs in a secure vault.
4. Check policy sublimits. Most insurers cap jewellery, electronics, and portable tools far below their real replacement cost.
5. Relocate irreplaceables. Move small valuables into safes or off-site storage while you’re away.
When the Unexpected Happens
Returning home to damage or loss can feel overwhelming, but organised documentation can turn chaos into a manageable claim. Insurers prioritise claims supported by verifiable records, clear item photos, model numbers, and evidence of condition before the event.
How myVal Keeps Your Home Protected While You’re Away
The myVal app simplifies pre-holiday documentation into a fast, AI-driven process:
- One-tap capture: Photograph each item; myVal recognises and logs make, model, and category.
- Smart storage: Back up photos, receipts, and warranties securely in one platform.
- Policy Health Check: See if high-value items exceed coverage limits before you leave.
- Claim-ready exports: If something happens, generate detailed, insurer-formatted reports in minutes.
Travel Confidently
A few minutes of preparation can make your home insurance work as intended: no surprises, no arguments, no missing proof.
Before you lock the door this summer, protect your valuables from theft, burst pipes, and surges.
Document your home today with myVal and leave knowing everything inside is accounted for.
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