Your home is your castle but that doesn’t mean you have to turn it into a fortress to keep it safe. With just a few practical steps and minimal expenditure, you can make your property a far less attractive proposition to intruders.
Securing Doors and Windows
Doors and windows are the most common entry points for burglars, so they’re always the best places to start when beefing up your home security. Start by ensuring all external doors are fitted with robust locks. A five-lever mortice deadlock that meets BS3621 standards is recommended by UK police and insurance providers alike and should be the bare minimum. Sliding doors, meanwhile, should have additional bolts or bars to prevent them from being forced open. All ground floor windows (and any easily accessible upper floors) should also have secure, key-operated locks and you should consider installing laminated glass or security film to your windows to make them that much harder to break.
Installing Visible Security Measures
Any burglar is making a calculated risk when invading a home so visible deterrents are often more than enough to make an intruder think twice. Security cameras placed around entrances and driveways not only record activity but also send a clear message that the property is monitored, and alarm systems, especially those with a prominent external box, are equally effective. Motion-activated lights, meanwhile, are not only convenient but can also expose anyone approaching after dark. Install them near doors, garages, and side passages as most burglars will be spooked by a light and leave before even attempting a robbery.
Enhancing Garage Security
Garages are often overlooked when it comes to home security, but they can be an easy target. Many garages contain valuable tools, bikes, and sometimes even direct access to the house, so it’s certainly not something you want to overlook. Upgrading to roller garage doors can help protect these areas as their sturdy construction, minimal gaps, and integrated locking systems make them harder to force open compared to traditional up-and-over designs. Of course, you should also always keep your garage locked, even when you’re at home.
Maintaining Landscape and Exterior
Well-maintained exteriors do more than boost curb appeal—they can actually prevent crime. Overgrown shrubs and trees can provide hiding spots for burglars so keep them trimmed, particularly near doors, windows, and garden gates. It’s not just what you’re seeing either. Sound plays a major role in most home robberies. Gravel driveways and paths can add an extra layer of protection by creating noise underfoot, alerting you to movement.
Final Thoughts
Improving your home security doesn’t have to be complicated or costly. Focus on key areas like securing entry points, adding visible deterrents, upgrading vulnerable access points like garages, and maintaining a clear and well-lit exterior. Small changes can make a big difference in keeping your home safe and it doesn’t need to cost a fortune either.
