Home security: The six simple ways to secure your new home
HOME SECURITY is a top priority for most homeowners, though it can often be overlooked when moving into a new property. While alarms and locks are the most obvious deterrent from thieves, there are a few common mistakes home-movers could be making while settling into their new home - but what are they?
Morning Live: Expert shares advice for home security
Moving house can be an exciting venture, but getting to grips with the security system in your new property can take time. With the new year boom set to see house sales soar once again, millions of Britons will be faced with the task of making their new home secure. With most of the nation working from home, opportunist thieves will find crafty ways to catch your home while it’s empty - but what can you do to deter cold criminals?
Don’t rush to remove old curtains
While new curtains or blinds can take time to install in a new home, leaving large street-view windows exposed could make your home more inviting to thieves.
Large, plain glass windows offer passers-by a clear viewing point inside your home leaving your belongings and interior layout entirely exposed.
If you’ve made the move into a new property but can’t stand the current drapes of curtains, consider leaving them up for a little while longer until you can fit an alternative window covering.
Window coverage is crucial to protect both your privacy and the contents of your home - especially on the ground floor and street-facing, first-floor windows of your home.
Always turn blinds upwards rather than facing down to prevent onlookers from being able to peer inside.
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Update your windows
Single pane windows are a lesser-spotted feature in most properties, though some period homes are yet to install double-glazing.
Not only will double-glazing make your house more energy-efficient, but it is also likely to ward off tempted thieves.
Double-hung windows are particularly vulnerable to thieves because the latch is not designed to be overly secure.
This style of window is common in Victorian properties and can be easily dislodged using a knife to open the window without having to smash the glass.
Keep wheelie bins out of sight
Strategically placed wheelie bins provide burglars easy access over fences and up to higher floors.
Avoid leaving bins next to garden fences or underneath hard-to-reach windows - moving noisy wheelie bins is often out of the question for thieves trying to keep a low profile.
Check your locks
While most home-buyers change the locks after moving into a new property, keeping your front door secure before this transition is often overlooked.
Most front door locks made before 2008 are not anti-snap proof, making them easier to snap off.
Check your lock is post-2008 for extra peace of mind - most locks will be anti-snap proof and even harder to get into after this time.
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Update outdoor lights
Replacing drained light bulbs inside the home is one of the first things on the list when moving house, but few property owners think to check exterior lighting.
Security lights will only be beneficial to the security of your home if they are in working order, so do the rounds and check for empty bulbs on your exterior lighting.
If your new home is lacking in outdoor lights, consider adding some for extra safety.
Keep keys out of sight
Bi-fold doors, large windows, and open plan living are a modern necessity for most homeowners.
While light-filled rooms made of large glass panes might look impressive, access routes and personal belongings are on full display to anyone that can access the rear entrance to your home.
Keep keys out of doors and windows when there is a clear view into the room and consider using anti-climb paint to deter thieves from scoping out the back of your house.