Becoming a new homeowner is exciting. There’s a lot to think about. What are your neighbors like? What are your first home upgrades going to be? How long will it be before you get sick of maintaining the yard and hire a lawn care company? (Answer: probably two weeks.) While there will be a lot on your mind as you move into your new home, there are priority items you definitely need to address as soon as possible.
One of those items is your home’s security situation. According to A Secure Life, data from a recent year’s FBI crime report “shows that we can expect one in every thirty-six homes in the United States to be burglarized (every) year, resulting in an average loss of $2,230 per break in (totaling $4.7 billion in property losses).” So, what specific items should new homeowners should check when it comes to home security? Here are five of them:
- Landscaping
How does landscaping relate to your home security? Aside from giving your home excellent curb appeal, a well-maintained lawn and shrubbery tells potential burglars that you likely haven’t been away from home for long. Also, overgrown bushes or trees can give potential burglars an easy place to hide, especially if your home is only one story. Speaking of burglars, it’s also a good idea to make sure you have curtains or blinds in your windows, to prevent them from getting a good look at your belongings inside.
- Locks
You also want to make sure your locks are rekeyed. This may seem like common knowledge, but have you ever stopped to ask yourself why? For starters, the previous owners might have kept a copy of their keys, or they might have lended copies out to family members or friends. Second, since the home has been on the market, who knows how many realtors and home buyers have had access to the existing keys and locks. Change them!
- Security System
Is there an existing security system in place? If so, can you access it? Ask your real estate agent, the previous homeowner and/or the security company for any passwords or codes that you might need, then change those passwords/codes so only you know them. Also, it’s a good idea to display any signs and stickers of your security system, as they can deter would-be burglars.
- Codes
Your security system isn’t the only security item that requires codes. Many homes these days come with pre-installed smart keypads, digital locks and smart doorbells. Once you get access to these codes, be sure to change them so none of your home’s entry points are compromised. Don’t forget your garage door… it might have a code, too!
- Deadbolts, Doors and Windows
Are any of these broken? Do they need to be reinforced? Deadbolts should especially be strengthened to prevent break-ins — you can install these yourself or hire a locksmith for it. Broken windows should also be replaced and every single exterior door should be working and have some sort of locking mechanism in place to keep your home safe.
Want a personalized assessment of your new home’s security situation? Give the A-1 Locksmith team a call at (972) 284-7500 and we’ll go over your options.
