Lock it up tight
It might sound obvious but always lock doors and windows – even when you’re home or just popping out. Invest in quality deadbolts and window locks and make sure they’re all in good working order. A lock is only useful if it’s actually used.
Light it right
Burglars prefer to work under cover of darkness, so make their job harder. Motion-sensor lights around entrances and pathways are an affordable deterrent. If you’re going away, set indoor lights on timers so the house looks lived in.
Keep things tidy and secure
A messy front yard can signal that no one’s home and leaving valuables like bikes or tools outside is an open invitation. Keep your garden trimmed and lock away anything portable in a shed or garage.
Make friends with your neighbours
There’s safety in numbers. A friendly wave and the odd chat can turn into an extra pair of eyes on your home. Neighbours can collect your mail when you’re away and alert you to any suspicious activity.
Secure your entry points
Glass sliding doors are a common weak spot, but you can make them much harder to break into with a dowel or metal rod in the track. For hinged doors, consider adding a security screen or reinforcing strike plates and hinges.
Don’t overshare online
It can be tempting to post holiday snaps while you’re away, but burglars can easily spot an empty house. Save the photos for when you’re back and avoid sharing your exact travel dates publicly.
Use decoys and deterrents
Something as simple as a ‘Beware of the dog’ sign can make would-be intruders think twice. Even if you don’t have a pet, leaving a large dog bowl near the back door adds an extra layer of bluff!
Keep your keys out of sight
Never leave spare keys under the doormat, in the letterbox or on top of a door frame. Burglars know all the classic hiding spots. Instead, give a spare key to a trusted friend or neighbour, or use a secure key safe.
Protect your perimeter
A sturdy fence with a lockable gate makes access more difficult. If you’ve got a back lane or side access, make sure these are well-lit and secured. Thorny plants like bougainvillea or roses near fences and windows can also make sneaking around less appealing.
Watch those trees and tall shrubs
While trees and tall hedges can give you privacy, they can also provide great cover for burglars attempting a break-in. Keep branches trimmed back from windows and doors and avoid planting anything too dense near entry points. It’s best if your front yard is visible from the street – burglars don’t like being seen.
Be unpredictable
If you’re away for a few days, make it look like you’re still home. Ask a neighbour to park in your driveway, put bins out on collection day and pick up any flyers or parcels. These small touches can make a big difference.
Upgrade your garage security
Garages are often overlooked, but they’re a favourite entry point for intruders. Fit a strong lock, keep the roller door closed when you’re home, and consider motion lighting nearby. Don’t leave tools or ladders lying around – they can be used to break in.
Label and record your valuables
Marking valuables with a UV pen or recording serial numbers makes them harder to sell and easier to trace if stolen. Take photos of high-value items and store them securely online.
Do a regular home security check
Once or twice a year, walk around your home with a critical eye. Look for easy entry points, weak locks or overgrown areas that could hide someone. Fixing small issues early can prevent bigger problems later.
And consider having a high- quality home security system installed for peace of mind.
By mixing a bit of common sense with some smart thinking, you can make your home far less appealing to burglars – and feel much more relaxed when you lock up for the night.
