Home Security While You're on Vacation
What Northwest Residents Worry About
Home security worries are reshaping how Seattle and Portland metro area residents prepare for travel.
According to PEMCO's 2026 Home Safety NW Poll, 51% of Northwest residents worry about home issues while on vacation. 24% say they've dealt with a home issue while traveling, and 57% of residents rely on a neighbor, friend or family member to keep an eye on their home while away.
51%
Worry about home issues
Residents are concerned something will happen to home while on vacation.
24%
Experience issues firsthand
Residents report prior experience dealing with home issues while on a trip.
57%
Rely on people, not tech
Residents prefer asking a friend or neighbor to keep an eye on things while they're gone.
Travel prep now includes home prep
Almost half (44%) of residents activate security systems—and among those, 40% say they check frequently while away, reinforcing how difficult it is to fully disconnect on vacation.
Takeaway: Technology helps—but doesn’t guarantee peace of mind.
Old-school still wins
57% rely on neighbors, friends, or family to keep an eye on their home.
Takeaway: Community remains a primary source of security.
