Home Security Checklist: Locksmith Tips to Keep Your Cardiff Home Safe

A determined burglar can break in within minutes, but a few simple measures can make your property much harder to target. Here’s a practical home security checklist to help you protect your loved ones and keep your family safe.

Secure Your Doors

• Upgrade to anti-snap door locks. Many burglars use lock snapping to force entry. Anti-snap locks prevent this.
• Ensure locks meet British Standards. Look for the BS3621 kitemark on external door locks. Many insurance policies require this.
• Use a deadbolt. A five-lever mortice deadlock adds extra strength to your front door.
• Fit a door chain and spyhole. These allow you to check visitors before opening the door.
• Check hinges and frames. Weak hinges or damaged frames make entry points easily accessible to intruders. Reinforce them if necessary.

Lock Your Windows

• Install key-operated locks. Burglars often target windows, especially on the ground floor.
• Use laminated glass. Tougher than standard glass, it makes break-ins much harder.
• Keep windows locked when not in use. Even if you’re upstairs, an open window is an opportune moment for a burglar.

Protect Your Keys

• Never hide a spare key outside. Thieves know all the common hiding places.
• Use a secure key safe. If you need to leave a spare key outside, a lockable key safe is a safer option.
• Change locks when moving home. You never know who may still have a copy of the old keys.
• Rekey or replace locks if you lose your keys. A lost key can be a security risk if it falls into the wrong hands.

Secure Outdoor Areas

• Lock garden gates. Use a padlock or key-operated lock to secure entry points.
• Secure sheds and garages. Burglars often target sheds for tools they can use to break into your property.
• Install outdoor security cameras and motion sensors. Monitoring your house with cameras can deter criminals and provide evidence if needed.
• Install motion-activated outdoor lighting. Bright lights can alert you to unwanted visitors and act as a defense against intruders.
• Trim hedges and bushes. Overgrown greenery provides cover for burglars, making your home an easy target.
• Maintain a well lit home. Ensuring your property is properly illuminated can help deter potential intruders.

Upgrade Your Home Security System

• Install a burglar alarm. A visible alarm system can alert you and the police to break-ins.
• Use a video doorbell or security cameras. Smart home devices let you monitor your home from your phone.
• Set your home’s lighting on timers. If you’re away for an extended period, automated lights make your home look occupied.
• Keep valuable items out of sight. Avoid leaving expensive items visible through windows.

Final Checks Before Leaving Home

• Double-check all doors, sliding doors, and windows are locked. Even if you’re just popping out.
• Don’t announce holidays on social media. You don’t want to alert burglars to an empty home.
• Ask a neighbour to check in. If you’re away for an extended period, they can collect post and keep an eye on your property.

Stay One Step Ahead

Installing affordable security systems, being mindful of entry points, and completing regular safety checks can give you peace of mind. If you’re unsure about your home’s security, Locksmiths Cardiff can assess your door locks and recommend extra security measures.

Your home should be a place where you and your loved ones feel safe. Following this home security checklist can help make sure it stays that way.