How can I protect my home from burglars
Are you going away for half term, a summer holiday or a Christmas gathering this year? How can you protect your home from burglars aside from getting a burglar alarm system and possibly a guard dog? Well, there are a number of ways to ensure that your home will not be a burglar’s next target. Following these simple steps will give you peace of mind every time you leave your house and/or go to bed. So, how can I protect my home from burglars?
Follow our guide:
1. Check all windows and doors have fully functioning locks
Front Door:
5 Lever Mortice lock
Buy here
ERA Fortress British Standard 3621 5 Lever Maximum Security Sashlocks are recommended for External timber and composite doors. The BS 3621 standard is recognised as giving the maximum protection for home and commercial use, approved by Insurance companies and the Police. The laminated steel Deadbolt helps to prevent hacksaw attacks. The Deadbolt has a 20mm throw for greater security. Hardened steel plates on the casing prevent drill attacks. The 5 Lever mechanism is designed to prevent lock picking. The Latchbolt can be easily reversed for left or right-handed doors. ERA Fortress Sashlocks are ideal for use in new doors or upgrading security from 2 and 3-lever door locks. Sashlocks are for use with door handles. The lock is operated from either side via a key. ERA Locks have been providing high-quality home and business security products for over 150 years. ERA is one of the UK’s most recognised lock brands providing you with the peace of mind that your property and possessions are locked up safe and sound. ERA Locks are approved by Insurance companies. The extensive range of products includes Nightlatches, Mortice Locks, Window Locks, Cylinders, UPVC and Composite door locks, Digital Door Locks & Wordlock Padlocks. Click here for prices.
Maximum security Night Latch
Buy here
Yale’s maximum security BS1 night latches are British Standard approved to ensure the highest level of security for timber external doors. They are Kitemarked to BS 3621:2007 and are recommended by insurance companies. These security night latches have been approved by the Police “Secured by Design” initiative. The Yale lock is key-operated from the outside and both key- and lever-handle-operated from the inside with the internal handle being lockable for increased security. The latch automatically deadlocks on closing the door and the snib function enables the latch to be held back. The lock uses a 6-pin high-performance cylinder and has a 20 mm bolt which is anti-carding. It also has a 15-year guarantee. The BS1 night latches have a 60 mm backset–this is the measurement from the edge of the door to the centre of the keyhole. Locks with a 40 mm backset are normally used where there is restricted space, such as on a glass panelled door. This Yale PBS1CH has a hardened case and cylinder both finished in polished chrome. It comes supplied with two keys and has a maximum security rating. Click here for prices.
Back Doors
UPVC Patio or French doors
- Install a multi-point locking system if the doors do not have this already.
- Install a top and bottom lock or a central rail key-operated lock.
Wooden Patio or french doors
- Install a top and bottom lock or a central rail key-operated lock.
- When installing a lock on a wooden door, it should be fitted 90 degrees to the grain of the wood to avoid splitting if subjected to pressure.
Windows
- All windows should be fitted with key-operated locks, particularly those windows at the ground or basement level.
Garage
- Install a garage Lock for the front of the garage door. This also gives a good visual deterrent.
Buy here
Having had this exact model in the past when we owned a garage, it was tested to the limit when someone tried to force open the door. The intruder did not succeed in getting in but we did have to repair the door after it was bent out of shape slightly at the top. This lock is drilled and fixed to the floor at the front of the garage. This is a must if you have a garage.
3. Install a visual Burglar Alarm
Buy here
No matter how well your property is secured with locks, an alarm system will add peace of mind and an additional level of protection to your home. Many people are put off by the high cost of some alarm systems, and the mess associated with installation. Yale, the brand leader in home security has introduced this cost-effective home security alarm, which offers a complete alarm solution for your home, and external buildings such as garages and sheds. Yale Essentials Alarm Kit is an ideal security system for the family home. It’s a convenient and expandable solution that protects your home and outbuildings without requiring modifications to your property. Battery-powered and wire-free for easy installation, the Essentials Alarm keeps your home secure without any monitoring fee. Security at no extra costs or contracts, DIY friendly with quick installation, up to 20 accessories can be added to customize your system, 20 seconds entry/exit time, 104 dB siren alarm. Kit Contains: Alarm, Key Pad, Door/Window Contact and x2 PIR Motion Detector
4. Invest in Video Doorbells and Cameras
These type of devices are now more commonly used to deter burglars and they do a great job! Burglars may monitor your property a few days or weeks before they strike. Usually, these types of devices will deter a burglar as you are notified by a message that someone is near or at your front door. If you install a camera at the back of your property, the same thing applies.
You can store or download images of people you do not recognise and if you are burgled, you can always give any footage to the Police.
Nest Doorbell
Buy here
Nest Hello Video Doorbell lets you know who’s at the door, so you won’t miss a visitor or parcel delivery. It can send an alert to your smart device and can tell the difference between a person and something else. It gives you the full view with crystal clarity so you can see the person from head to toe, right down to the doorstep so you can see parcels left for you too, and you can speak to your visitor via the Nest app (iOS & Android). With an optional Nest Aware subscription, it can tell the difference between people you know and a stranger, and it live-streams 24/7 so you can always check what’s happening at your door. The beauty of this device is that for a small monthly subscription fee, it records and stores all activity so you can look back and record snippets of footage on a handheld device to use as evidence of being burgled, attempted burglary or a harassing neighbour! This is the ultimate way of protecting your home from burglars.
Ring Doorbell
Buy here
Works with selected Alexa devices to launch real-time video with your voice. Lets you see, hear and speak to visitors from your phone, tablet and PC. You’ll get a notification when movement is detected or when visitors press the Doorbell. Works on any home, with or without existing doorbell wires. Monitors your home in HD video with infrared night vision. Lets you check in on your property at any time with Live View, real-time video. Includes Theft Protection: If your doorbell gets stolen, they will replace it for free. The beauty of this device is that for a small monthly subscription fee, it records and stores all activity so you can look back and record snippets of footage on a handheld device to use as evidence of being burgled, attempted burglary, or a harassing neighbour! This is the ultimate way of protecting your home from burglars.
Nest Outdoor Camera
Buy here
With top-notch visual clarity, processing power and connectivity, Nest Cam IQ Outdoor is a premium way to make sure that your home’s surrounding areas are safe. It’s weather-proof, temper-proof, and is able to detect a person up to 15 metres away, so it can help you find out about a break-in before it happens. It enables you to check in on your phone, even when you are out, and is clever enough to distinguish between a person and a thing. Supersight vision monitors and records the action with superb clarity, and it can zoom in and follow the action for you. A powerful speaker allows you to communicate through it using the Nest app, and, with a Nest Aware subscription (sold separately), it can send you familiar face alerts. The beauty of this device is that for a small monthly subscription fee, it records and stores all activity so you can look back and record snippets of footage on a handheld device to use as evidence of being burgled, attempted burglary or a harassing neighbour! This is an incredibly efficient way of protecting your home from burglars.
Ring Outdoor Camera
See, hear and speak to people and pets from your phone, tablet or select Echo device with Stick Up Cam Battery, a battery-powered camera that can be mounted anywhere, indoors or outdoors. With Live View, you can check on your home any time through the Ring app. Get notifications whenever motion is detected by adjusting your Motion Detection settings. Place it anywhere: indoors or outdoors, on flat surfaces, or mount it to a wall. Easily set up your Stick Up Cam in just a few minutes. Powered by a quick-release removable battery pack. The beauty of this device is that for a small monthly subscription fee, it records and stores all activity so you can look back and record snippets of footage on a handheld device to use as evidence of being burgled, attempted burglary or a harassing neighbour! This is the ultimate way of protecting your home from burglars. This device will most definitely protect your home from burglars.
6. Install good outside lighting
Security Lighting with Camera
Buy here
If you are more security conscious, you could always install security lighting with a fitted camera or buy one that has it all. Ring has introduced the Ring Floodlight Cam which has a security camera and security light that can be hard-wired to the mains and works with Alexa devices. This type of lighting would need to be electrically wired to your property. A surefire way of lighting up your property and protecting your home from burglars.
Smart Lights
Buy here
Control lights with your voice – works with Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple homekit devices for hands-free voice control. Control your smart outdoor lights with simple voice commands! Highlight your outdoor space with the Philips hue discover floodlight. This kit includes all cables to start lighting your outdoors What’s required? – A ‘Phillips Hue Bridge’ (sold separately) is required for smart control. Simply connect your bridge, plug in your new Philips Hue lights and take advantage of smart outdoor lighting via the ‘Philips Hue’ app. Note: add the product to the Hue Bridge by using the Serial Number on the back of the Wall Plate. Style with colour – Choose from 16 million colours including warm to cool white light to create the perfect ambience for relaxing, playing or entertaining outdoors. Discover the perfect smart lighting for parties, BBQs and more! Enhance your outdoor space – Create the perfect ambience for relaxing, playing or entertaining. Whether you want your garden to be vibrant for a party, or chilled to help you wind down, easily create the right setting to enjoy any moment outside.
![2 Pcs Smart LED Floodlight 20W, Novostella WiFi Colour Changing Outdoor Flood Lights, 2000LM Millions Colours + 2700-6500K White Light, APP Smart Control, Voice Control via Alexa Google, 1.5M Wire [Energy Class A+]](https://homeguideexpert.com/wp-content/uploads/Screenshot-2020-11-03-at-14.11.46-e1604412774243.png)
Buy here
Works with Alexa, and Google Assistant voice commands. Truly Smart Wi-Fi Flood Light. Novostella Wi-Fi floodlights work with Alexa Echo Dot, Google Assistant for Voice control and from your smartphone via the Smart Life app (Android & iOS), free to control your indoor/outdoor lighting from your home or any other location. RGBCW=RGB + (2700-6500K) tunable white. Wi-Fi Smart Floodlight = White Floodlight + RGB Floodlight + More Functions. In addition to 16 Million Colours adjustable, there is also a white light function with adjustable color temperature(2700-6500K). 2000lm high lumens, brightness, light modes and saturation are adjustable, and meet all your needs. Set schedules to automatically turn on and off the light as routines. Memory function is available. The last settings will be saved for quick access next time, to make daily life much more convenient. The light also supports customized settings (delay, sunrise, and sunset, weather, etc.). Set-up is pretty easy and takes only a few minutes with the help of the detailed guide on video and manual. For any questions during the installation, you can get prompt support by writing to support@novostella.net. (Only Support 2.4gHz). The fixture with 12 pcs enhanced fin-type heat sink, strengthening the light and having better heating diffusion. Ensure stable performance under most weather conditions.
Security lights
Buy here
These Zicbol Solar-powered Light consists of 100 LED Chips, lighting up your whole garden! The solar wall lamp is equipped with independent solar panels and 5 meters of wire connections. With a built-in enhanced PIR motion inductor, these security floodlights with Motion Sensor can detect motion sensitively within a distance of 16 feet and an angle of 120 degrees. Due to the 2400mAh lithium-ion battery, these solar-led security lights can be lit for a long time and based on monocrystalline silicon, the solar conversion efficiency is up to 20%.
Garden Lights
Buy here
This stylish, wall-mounted, up/down outdoor light has a stunning, modern stainless steel flush cylinder design and is ideal for lighting gardens, paths, garages, patios, courtyards, decorative porches and driveways. As well as being IP44 outdoor weatherproof rated, this external light also features a practical integrated PIR motion detector – providing extra security for the home and giving peace of mind. The wall-mounted outdoor flush light comes in a sturdy and weatherproof durable stainless steel design and emits bright light from both the top and bottom. This robust, illuminating external light is IP44 Rated and is fully certified for outdoor installation. To view a range click here.
Festoon Lighting
Click here to view a range to light up your back garden to stop a burglar from sneaking around the back without being seen!
7. Purchase a Security Timer Light Switch
View a range here
Incredibly easy to set up and use timer sockets which is why they have 4-star reviews. Compact, economical, energy-saving and can help to deter intruders. These are adjustable for 24 hours with 15-minute minimum intervals and are also approved to BS1363. These sockets are CE Approved with a rating of 13A, 3200W. The beauty of these is that they can be used multiple times a day.
Buy here
Control electronics from anywhere using your tablet or smartphone with the TP-Link Smart Wi-Fi Plug. You can turn devices on/off, check status, create schedules and set timers using the Kasa app. Gain peace of mind by checking on your devices remotely and always coming home to a well-lit house. Use away-mode to make it look like you are home when you travel and have lights turn on/off at set times to conserve energy and save on your next bill. Add voice control to any electronic device by pairing with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. With IFTTT, you can also create personalised Applets that trigger automatic actions on your smart plug.
8. Lock Ladders and keep tools out of sight
Ladder Lock
Buy here
Universal ladder lock gives a practical system for the safe, convenient and secure storage of most ladders. Hooks come complete with a locking bar for additional security if a padlock is required. Two brackets are approximately 225 x 170mm.
Security Tool Box for a garage, shed or vehicle
Buy here
Heavy-duty storage boxes manufactured from sheet steel with a powder-coated finish. Ideal for use on-site, in vans, workshops, garages and sheds. Feet with bolt holes for fixing to a solid base to avoid complete removal. Gas struts and integrated single-pin hinge. Heavy-duty lifting handles and raised feet allow for easier movement by forklift trucks. Two cut-outs on the front for padlock attachment.
9. Place bikes inside the shed or garage
If this is not possible, lock them to an immovable object. For bikes and garden power tool storage, we highly recommend getting an Asgard shed. Click here for details.
10. Keep side gates locked and fences in good repair
Side gates
Yale Padlock
Buy here
- Solid multi-layered steel body protection system
- Weatherproof and rust-resistant
- Double-bearing lock and hardened boron shackle for additional security
Fences
Scaffold Board Fence
Click here for guidance on what is the best type of fence panels.
Scaffold boards are a heavy-duty way of erecting a fence. Long-lasting and durable, they will not need much maintenance. You can paint or apply a good quality wood preserver if desired, but the best effect is when left to nature. All that is required is concrete posts to be put in place, then panels can either be slotted in or you could ask your builder to design something shown in the photograph above. Concrete posts cost around £20 each. You can pick up scaffold boards for approximately £8-13 per board. You can get scaffold boards from Lawsons, their delivery service is great and they worked with us on a loft extension project. For this design 80 scaffold board’s and 15 concrete posts were used for a 90ft garden. We highly recommend them!
11. Keep hedges trimmed around your property (but not too low)
Hedge Cutters
Buy here
Burglars like to find a property that is easily accessible with low-trimmed hedges that make it easier to jump over. Keep them trimmed, but not too low.
12. Close and lock all doors and windows before you leave your home, make a mental note to check this every time you leave
- Do not leave keys near the front door.
- Ensure your valuables are not in plain view.
- Do not draw attention to yourself when you come and go (i.e. don’t shout back at your partner when leaving the house, “I’ll meet you there in 10 minutes” etc).
13. Purchase an outdoor time-lapse camera
Buy here
The Brinno TLC200 PRO will record for months on its 4 AA batteries while saving your Time Lapse Video to the SD Card. No stitching thousands of frames together in post-processing. Built with an HDR (High Dynamic Range) image sensor making the creation of high-quality time-lapse videos a snap, even in low light situations where other cameras miss details. Simple to use, simply stunning results. This time-lapse camera will instantly produce high-quality videos which are compressed into smaller files making playback on smartphones. With a TLC200 Pro’s CS-mount interface, you can always choose a suitable lens for your needs. Turn your TLC200 PRO into a Construction Camera with a world-record class, long-term battery life of 40 days while taking a photo every 5 minutes at the Daylight Scene setting. The timer function allows you to program when the camera will wake up and begin recording and when it will shut off. You now have complete control without needing to be there to turn the camera on. Set it then forget it. Field of view: 112°, rotates, vertical rotating direction, angle of rotation: 120°, closest focusing distance: 0.4 m, fixed aperture: 2 mm, the lens can be changed. Click here for prices.
14. Don’t broadcast your holidays on social media whilst you’re there
We get excited about going on holiday and rightly so, but you can always tell people about your adventure when you are back home.
If you are in the UK, click here for a great burglar alarm guide compiled by Which?
