Holiday Security Checklist for Business Properties

Most local businesses and body corporates know to lock up and set the alarm before shutting down for the holidays. But by focusing on just a few strategic (and often missed) actions, you’ll dramatically reduce your risk during the Christmas break, when opportunistic crime often spikes.​

1. Audit Access – People and Permissions

Before doors close, review who has physical or digital access to the building, think keycards, keys, and contractor codes. Suspend what’s not needed and log any temporary permissions. Many post-holiday incidents start with overlooked access points or outdated lists.​

2. Secure Above and Beyond the Obvious

Go beyond the perimeter: check roof hatches, external fire stairs, high windows, and gates that may have been overlooked. Confirm that alarms and surveillance also cover these non-obvious areas, many break-ins exploit “out of camera view” spots, especially on commercial properties.​

3. Walk the Site and Test Your Security

A quick pre-shutdown walk with a trusted staff member or security provider helps spot blind spots, malfunctioning lights or cameras, and missed vulnerabilities. Don’t just rely on system status, test your alert notifications and ensure footage is being successfully recorded and remotely accessible.​

4. Manage Deliveries and Service Visits

Pause or reschedule deliveries, regular cleaners, and contractor visits for the shutdown window. Provide building management and neighbours with your closure dates. Unscheduled arrivals or access during holidays are red flags and create cover for opportunistic activity.​

5. Move or Hide Valuables

Store portable or high-value equipment in locked rooms, and move sensitive physical documents or IP to safes or off-site storage if possible. Don’t leave laptops, tools, or projectors visible from windows or main entry areas.​

6. Update Insurance and Emergency Contacts

Double-check your insurance coverage is current and includes holiday shutdown periods. Share updated after-hours contact details with alarm monitoring services and, if using temps or interim staff, review response protocols so the right people can be reached quickly.​

Why These Actions Matter
Criminals know businesses shut down and routines change at Christmas. Many of these steps are often overlooked in a rush to “lock up and leave,” but taking just a few extra minutes on these high-value actions can save a business from costly incidents or downtime over the holidays.​

Eximm is here to help with sector-specific security advice and practical solutions, connect with us to discuss what works best for your building, retail operation, or warehouse.