HOME, SAFE HOME - 6 SECURITY TIPS FOR YOUR NEW PROPERTY

HOME, SAFE HOME - 6 SECURITY TIPS FOR YOUR NEW PROPERTY

You've taken the plunge and bought the house of your dreams, it's probably the biggest investment you've ever made and as incredibly exciting as it is, it can be easy to overlook some basic security essentials to protect your new home.

Change Your Locks

One of the first things you should do in securing your new home is being sure to change the locks. There's no way of knowing who all still has a key to your house, from former domestic staff who may have been employed by previous owners to the teenage house sitter who looked after the property during the holidays. It may seem basic, but this simple step is often overlooked.    

Install a Video Intercom for Your Doorbell

Make sure you know exactly who you're opening your front door to with a video intercom at your doorbell. Often would-be thieves might pretend to be on your premises under the guise of some manner of official inspection, but with a video intercom you will be able to clearly identify visitors before allowing them onto your property.

Motion Activated Lighting

Fitting motion detecting lights outside of your new home is a sure way to add a sense of security, particularly at night, and should be fitted on all sides of your new home. In addition to being an economical and energy saving means of lighting the outside of your home, motion activated lighting will alert you to any unexpected movement outside your home and deter intruders.

Home Alarm System with Armed Response

Make sure you have an alarm system in place, and that all the sensors have been tested and are fully functional. Consider any upgrades you may need to make, possibly adding additional sensors, panic buttons, or even an electric fence.

Dogs

More than just a faithful fur baby and loyal companion, having a dog at home can be a major deterrent to intruders, especially an indoor dog that will alert you to anybody in your yard without being at risk of danger themselves.

During the Holidays

If you plan on spending a few days away from home over the holidays, consider asking one of your trusted friends or neighbours to either house sit for you or to check up on your home daily. Otherwise, be sure to set timers on your TV and lights so that they turn on and off. It is well known that intruders would prefer not to be caught and are likely to avoid barging into a home where people are up and about. Therefor setting timers on your lights and TV can go a long way to create the appearance of someone being awake at home.

When consulting with your Property Specialist before making your purchase, be sure to enquire about home security measures currently installed on the property. If you need more advice, contact Home andHectare today on 041 581 1744 or email us at info@homeandhectare.com and let our expert team of Property Specialists advise you.