Your home is your sanctuary. Safeguarding your loved ones, deterring burglaries, and enjoying your peace of mind begins with robust home security — the trust that you and your family are safe. This article presents six tips to fortify your home’s security. You can establish a safer environment for your family and cherished possessions by blending smart technology and proven methods.  



    Install Motion Sensors

    The exterior of your home is the first place to start for security. Floodlights connected to motion sensors deter would-be thieves. Most won’t risk getting caught if they believe someone might see them.

    Look for sensor models with adjustable settings to optimize the sensor for your property. Find the right range and direct it to areas like entryways and driveways. Motion-activated security lighting provides an affordable way to ward off intruders.

    Add security cameras that record video when the sensor triggers for better protection. Security camera footage often helps law enforcement identify intruders after a break-in.


    Lock Doors and Windows

    Secure all entryways to your home. Lock windows and doors at all times. If you have a garage, keep the garage door down when you’re home.

    Use high-quality locks, preferably deadbolts, on all exterior doors. Place a dowel rod or bar in the track for sliding doors to prevent forced entry. You can add extra sliding door locks for more security.

    Confirm window latches line up with the frame to lock securely. Ensure that all your windows lock. If they don’t, consider adding aftermarket window locks. 


    Simulate Activity When You’re Away

    Give the impression that someone is home even if you’re not. Get smart lighting you can turn on and off on a schedule or on demand with an app. With smart bulbs and switches, you can automate lights to turn on and off daily. You can even vary the timing randomly to mimic natural activity.

    Avoid posting travel plans on social media. Show off your vacation pictures after you get home. 

    Today’s Homeowner Tips

    When you go on vacation, have a neighbor collect your mail or have the post office pause delivery while you are away.


    Use Alarm Systems

    Alarms and security systems can powerfully deter burglaries. The loud noise of a tripped alarm can scare away thieves before entering your home. 

    Choose between leaving your system unmonitored or having it monitored. Monitored alarms — available for a monthly fee — can alert police if they detect an intruder. Look for systems that connect to a cellular network as a backup during a power outage and loss of Wi-Fi. 

    I recommend a security system with cameras. Position cameras to monitor vulnerable areas of the home. A security system acts as your first line of defense.


    Change Your Locks

    Change all the exterior door locks if you just moved into a new home. It’s not wise to assume old keys aren’t accessible. Over the past two decades, I assisted new homeowners with home purchases and witnessed times when they permitted someone to duplicate keys to their homes during the sales process. Duplicate keys sometimes get passed to contractors, house cleaners, and tradespeople. Always change your locks with a new home.  

    One option is to install smart locks and share the code with family and friends. With keypad and app control, you can grant and revoke access remotely anytime.

    To save money, you can rekey your locks instead of replacing them. The rekeying process modifies lock pins to work with a new key.


    Clean Your Yard

    Keep your yard clean and clear to help with home security. Trim overgrown trees, bushes, and hedges. Unkempt hedges provide ideal hiding spots for intruders, so prune your bushes regularly.

    There’s an added benefit: Well-pruned shrubs and trees show a carefully tended yard. Maintaining them adds curb appeal.

    Cut back tree branches and shrubs that obscure doors, gates, and windows to eliminate blind spots and ensure clear sight lines from inside the house. Trimming also removes easy access points like low-hanging branches.


    So, How Can You Improve Home Security?

    You can improve your home security by taking basic precautions like installing motion sensors, pruning the landscaping, and keeping doors locked, making unlawful entry much harder. Layer deterrents for maximum effectiveness. Upgrading to smart home technology enhances protection further. Lights, locks, cameras, and alarms can all be automated and monitored from your phone.

    Home security is an ongoing process of evaluating risks and making improvements. Rest easy knowing small steps make a big difference.


    FAQs About Home Security

    Do security systems require a monthly fee?

    Most professional security systems charge a monthly fee to connect your home to the company’s monitoring center. The money should ensure a fast emergency response. Some DIY systems operate without monitoring or fees.


    How much does professional home security cost?

    Professional home security costs depend on the equipment required for the desired monitoring level. Budget $30–$60 per month for monitoring, plus $200–$1,500 for initial equipment, installation charges, and activation fees.


    What deters burglars the most?

    Visible security measures like cameras, alarm signage, and exterior lighting are proven deterrents. Dogs also scare away many intruders. But diligent locking of doors and windows is the best place to start.


    Should I hide or show my home security cameras?

    Place cameras prominently to maximize their deterrent effect. Place some discrete indoor cameras where thieves won’t notice until it’s too late.


    How often should I change my locks?

    When you move into a new home, change locks immediately. After that, consider rekeying locks every two or three years as a precaution against lost keys or unauthorized copies.


    Editorial Contributors
    avatar for Laurie Engle

    Laurie Engle

    Expert Writer & Reviewer

    Laurie Engle is a freelance writer who provides insights to homeowners on topics such as the home warranty industry, relocation issues, and real estate trends. As a licensed Realtor since 2001 Laurie has acquired extensive expertise in dealing with home warranty companies and navigating the intricacies of the real estate market. In addition to her commitment to helping clients with their home buying and selling needs, she maintains a sharp awareness of market dynamics, including property values, interest rates, and local regulations.

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    Sabrina Lopez

    Editor

    Sabrina Lopez is a senior editor for Today’s Homeowner with over 7 years of writing and editing experience in digital media. She has reviewed content across categories that matter to homeowners, including HVAC services, home renovations, lawn and garden care, products for the home, and insurance services. When she’s not reviewing articles to make sure they are helpful, accessible, and engaging for homeowners like herself, Sabrina enjoys spending time with her family and their two parrots.

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