Home Security Tips

Change the Locks When You Move In (Always)

Any time you buy a new home, change the locks immediately.

You have no idea how many copies of those keys exist:

• Previous owners

• Contractors

• House cleaners

• Friends or relatives

This is cheap insurance and one of the easiest security upgrades you can make. If keys are ever lost—or someone moves out under bad terms—change them again.

Don’t Let Strangers Inside Your Home

This one is old-school advice for a reason—it still works.

Never open the door for someone you don’t know, no matter how convincing the story sounds:

• Utility workers

• Salespeople

• Someone asking to use your phone

• Someone claiming an emergency

If it’s legitimate, they can wait while you verify through a door, camera, or phone call. Most crimes that start at the front door succeed because homeowners are trying to be polite.

Use Your Dog Smarter (Yes, Really)

If you keep a dog outside, never hide a spare key near the door. That’s the first place thieves look.

A smarter option:

• Attach a spare key securely inside your dog’s collar

• Make sure it’s not visible or easy to remove

It’s not foolproof—but it’s far better than under the mat or in a fake rock.

Lock Down the Garage (It’s a Big Target)

Garages are one of the most common entry points for break-ins.

Best practices:

• Park your car inside when possible

• Keep garage doors locked, even during the day

• Don’t leave the interior garage door unlocked

• Avoid storing expensive tools in plain view

An open or cluttered garage signals that no one’s paying attention.

Use Your Local Police Resources

Many homeowners don’t realize this, but local police departments often offer:

• Neighborhood watch programs

• Free or low-cost home security inspections

• Property engraving services

• Safety workshops

These programs aren’t just for high-crime areas. They’re designed to help homeowners reduce risk before something happens.

Don’t Ignore Skylights and Upper Access Points

Skylights look great—but they’re often weak points.

If you have skylights:

• Make sure the hardware is heavy-duty

• Check seals and locks regularly

• Reinforce older installations

Any opening that isn’t routinely checked becomes an opportunity.

Test Your Security Systems Every Year

It doesn’t matter how much you paid—systems fail.

Weather, power surges, wiring issues, and simple wear can all cause problems you won’t notice until it’s too late.

At least once a year:

• Test alarms

• Test cameras

• Check batteries

• Verify monitoring services

If you don’t know where to look, have a professional inspect it.

Change Locks When Someone Moves Out

Roommate left? Tenant moved out? Divorce finalized?

Change the locks.

Former occupants may still have keys—even if you trust them. This isn’t personal. It’s just good security practice.

Walls Make Great Hiding Places

Small valuables don’t belong in obvious places like drawers or nightstands.

Better options:

• In-wall safes

• Hidden compartments

• Areas that require tools to access

Most thieves are in and out quickly. They won’t spend time tearing walls apart.

Read the Fine Print on Security Contracts

If you hire a security company, read everything.

Watch for:

• Long-term contracts

• Early termination fees

• Equipment ownership clauses

• Extra monitoring charges

Expensive doesn’t always mean better. A simple, reliable setup often beats flashy systems with hidden costs.

Final Thought: Don’t Make Your Home the Easy Target

Most burglars aren’t looking for the “best” house. They’re looking for the easiest one.

A few smart habits and basic upgrades can move your home off that list entirely.

Start now. Small changes make a big difference.

Heavy SEO FAQs – Home Security Tips

1. What are the most basic home security tips for homeowners?
Lock all doors and windows, change locks when moving in, avoid advertising when you’re away, and don’t open the door to strangers.

2. Are home security systems necessary for every home?
Not always, but even basic alarms or cameras can significantly reduce risk when combined with smart habits.

3. Do burglars target homes in quiet neighborhoods?
Yes. Quiet areas often have fewer witnesses and slower response times.

4. Should I change my locks after a roommate moves out?
Yes. Anyone who had access before could still enter your home.

5. Is a garage a common entry point for burglars?
Absolutely. Unlocked or cluttered garages are a frequent target.

6. Are skylights a security risk?
They can be if not properly secured with durable hardware.

7. How often should home security systems be tested?
At least once per year, or more often if recommended by the manufacturer.

8. What’s the safest way to hide a spare key?
Avoid obvious spots. Use secure, concealed methods instead of outdoor hiding places.

9. Can dogs really help with home security?
Yes. Even small dogs can act as deterrents and alert homeowners.

10. Are expensive homes more likely to be broken into?
No. Thieves target homes that look easy to enter, not just high-value properties.