Feeling safe at home is a big deal. Whether you live in a house, an apartment, or a condo, making sure your space is secure should be a top priority. The good news? Home security doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. A few simple changes and smart habits can improve home security and make a huge difference in keeping your home safe. Here’s how you can do it.
Lock Your Doors and Windows
This might sound like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many break-ins happen just because a door or window was left unlocked. Make it a habit to check that everything is locked before you leave or go to bed. If you want extra security, install deadbolt locks on exterior doors and reinforce sliding doors with a sturdy bar or dowel. Adding security film to windows can also make them tougher to break.
Get a Home Security System
A security system is one of the best ways to keep intruders away. You don’t need an expensive setup—there are plenty of DIY options that include cameras, motion detectors, and alarms. Many modern systems even let you monitor your home from your phone. Even just having a doorbell camera or a basic alarm system can scare off burglars.
Light Up the Outside
Burglars love the dark because it helps them stay hidden. Adding motion-activated lights around your front and back doors, garage, and dark corners of your yard can make your home less appealing to intruders. Solar-powered lights are a great option if you don’t want to deal with wiring.
Keep Your Yard Neat
Tall bushes and overgrown trees can give burglars a place to hide while they try to break in. Keep shrubs trimmed, especially near windows, and make sure trees aren’t giving anyone easy access to your second floor. If you have a fence, make sure the gates are locked and in good shape.
Ditch the Hidden Spare Key
A spare key under the doormat or in a fake rock is one of the first things burglars check. Instead of hiding a key outside, give one to a trusted neighbor or invest in a smart lock that lets you use a code instead of a physical key.
Communicate with Your Neighbors to Improve Home Security
A close-knit community is a great deterrent for crime. Get to know your neighbors and look out for each other. If you’re going on vacation, let a neighbor know so they can keep an eye on your place. Having someone collect your mail and take out your trash makes it look like someone is home.
Watch What You Post Online
Sharing vacation photos while you’re away is tempting, but posting in real time can alert burglars that your home is empty. Wait until you’re back before posting, and remind family members to do the same. Teach kids to be careful about sharing personal details online, too.
Use Timers and Smart Tech to Improve Home Security
A dark, quiet house can signal to burglars that no one is home. Use timers to turn lights, TVs, or radios on and off at different times to make it look like someone’s there. Smart home devices make this even easier, letting you control lights and electronics from your phone.
Get a Dog (or Just Pretend You Have One)
A barking dog can scare off intruders. If you have one, great! If not, a “Beware of Dog” sign or leaving a dog bowl on your porch can make burglars think twice about targeting your home.
Improving home security doesn’t have to be hard. A few smart changes and a little awareness can go a long way in keeping your home and family safe.
Frequently Asked Questions on How to Improve Home Security
What’s the best way to make my home more secure?
The best way to keep your home safe is to use a combination of strong locks, a security system, and good outdoor lighting. No single solution is perfect, but using multiple layers of security makes a big difference.
Do security cameras actually help?
Yes! Studies show that homes with visible cameras are much less likely to be targeted by burglars. Even a simple doorbell camera can be a great deterrent.
How can I make my home look occupied when I’m away?
Use timers or smart home devices to turn lights on and off at different times. Have a neighbor collect your mail and take out your trash to make it look like someone’s home.
Are home security systems worth it?
Definitely. Even a basic system adds an extra layer of protection, and some insurance companies offer discounts if you have one. DIY options are also available if you’re on a budget.
What should I do if I see something suspicious in my neighborhood?
If something doesn’t feel right, call the police. Trust your instincts and let your neighbors know about any unusual activity.
Precision Home Inspectors provides inspection services to Hampton Roads in Virginia. Contact us to book an appointment.