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Ever thought about getting a home security audit done on your home? Especially if you have recently purchased a new home.
Purchasing a new home comes with a lot of responsibilities and it seems that there are always a million things to be done. But prioritising the security of your home should be high on your ‘to-do’ list.
A home security audit will help you get an understanding of your home’s existing level of security and point out vulnerabilities that need addressing. Contact your local professional accredited Locksmith to give you peace of mind, feeling safe in your new residence. Often, locksmiths or other security professionals will offer this service for free for local residents. Just do not be pressured into investing in anything you are not too sure about.
First thing to review are the entry points to your home (e.g. front door, back door and the door from your home to your garage – if you have one). Doors should be made from a solid, strong material and should be fitted tightly into the frame that should be strongly secured to the wall. Ensure that your locks are working and that you have a deadbolt lock in addition to your doorknob or door handle lock if necessary. The fitting of the locks is crucial as if they are not fitted correctly, it may be a weak point in the security.
When moving into a new home, you may want to consider lock rekeying. This won’t require a whole new lock installation, but ensures that you know exactly who has access to your home.
Next, the windows should be checked. Windows should also be made from solid material and fit snugly into their frames. The windows may have locks but these can be broken, so checks will be done on the windows for areas that are weak or can easily be accessed by burglars.
Other window security features may be advisable too, for example if you have young mischievous children that might be able to open a window to an upstairs room.
If you do not already have a security system installed in your home, consider installing one as soon as possible. Most break-in attempts occur through easy access points like doors or windows. Having a security system installed will deter criminals or will notify you if someone has broken into your home, or entered at a time when you’re not home.
If your new home does have a security system, check that it is working, and more importantly, that you know how to use it.
If your budget is tight, a video doorbell can be a cost effective and convenient product to have installed.
The outside perimeter of your home should be well lit on every side. This will make it more difficult for burglars to break in and harder for them to escape without being noticed. Ideally, the lighting should be motion-activated, especially near the doors and windows where they are most needed.
Make sure your garden is well-kept. Overgrown bushes and trees make for an easy hiding spot for potential burglars. Bushes should be trimmed up to the height of your windows so that you can see outside without obstruction.
One should consider smoke detectors and fire extinguishers. Make sure your smoke detectors are working properly and have new batteries. You can easily check whether your smoke alarm is working by pressing and holding the test button on the smoke detector. You should hear a loud noise. If you don’t, you may need new batteries or an inspection performed on your smoke detector.
New homes are not always equipped with a fire extinguisher. Though it may feel like a pain to purchase a new one, it can be the difference between a quick fix and a disaster.
Your numbered address should be easily legible from the street. For example, if plants are blocking the number, or the paint has faded over time, then emergency services like the police/ambulance or your local locksmith may be delayed if they cannot find your home.
Of course, there are other things that could be considered. For example, are your existing locks in good working order? If not, maintaining them regularly is really important for continued security.
Finally, on the subject of home security, it is good if you can get to know your neighbours. This may sound like it has nothing to do with the safety of your home, but it can be important in case anything should happen. Neighbours can keep an eye out for each other and inform you if there is ever unusual activity nearby. If you ever go out of town, you’ll want a trusted neighbour to have a spare key. This way, they’ll be able to do things like collect your mail and take out your bins (and put them away again afterwards!) to help your home look occupied.
If you are based in or around Maldon and Witham, then contact Lock Guy for a lock security survey of your home.
Got a question about a lock issue you may have? Why not have a look at the FAQ page or one of the helpful advice videos on the Media page.