Secure your New Home

Securing Your New Home: Essential Safety Measures

No matter where your new home is located—whether in the city, a quiet neighborhood, or a high-traffic area—it’s always a good idea to take security precautions. Implementing these simple but effective measures can help protect your property, belongings, and peace of mind.

Essential Security Measures (Highly Recommended for All Buyers)

🔹 Re-key or Change All Exterior Door Locks

• You never know who may still have a key to your new home. To be safe, have a locksmith re-key or replace all exterior door locks as soon as you move in.

• If you’re a AAA member, check your benefits—some memberships include free re-keying services.

• Consider installing deadbolts on all exterior doors for added security.

🔹 Install a Home Security System

• Our top recommendation is ADT, known for reliability and reasonable pricing. We’ve negotiated a 20% discount on installation for our clients—click here for details.

• Security systems are especially important for single-family homes, ground-floor condos, or units with external staircases that provide access to your residence.

• Schedule installation ahead of time—appointments can book up quickly, and break-ins often occur within the first week of moving in when security measures are not yet in place.

🔹 Enhance Door & Entryway Security

• Install a peephole if your front door doesn’t have one.

• Consider adding a Ring doorbell or other video doorbell system for remote monitoring.

🔹 Secure Sliding Glass Doors & Patio Entrances

• Place a wooden or metal dowel in the door track to prevent forced entry.

• Install a jimmy plate and auxiliary lock for additional protection.

Additional Security Measures (For Extra Protection)

🔹 Reinforce Exterior Doors with Door Armor

• Door Armor strengthens doors against forced entry and is easy to install.

• If you’re in a condo building, check with your HOA about installing Door Armor on common entry doors as well.

🔹 Use a Metal Wrap-Around Knob Reinforcer

• This inexpensive security upgrade makes it significantly harder to break through an exterior door.

• Consider suggesting this to your HOA if your condo’s side or back doors lack proper reinforcements.

🔹 Install NightLocks on Unused Doors

• If you have side or back doors that you rarely use, installing NightLocks can prevent unauthorized access.

• These locks are especially useful for single-family homes with basements.

🔹 Protect Glass Doors & Windows with Shatter-Resistant Film

• Shatter Safe is a clear, protective film that reinforces glass, making it difficult to break.

• Ideal for ground-level windows, doors with glass panels, and garage windows.

🔹 Improve Outdoor Lighting for Safety

• Install dusk-to-dawn lights over all exterior doors for continuous security.

• Consider adding motion detector lights in high-risk areas like side entrances, alleyways, and garages.

• If you live in a condo building, ask your HOA to install these lighting features if they are not already in place.

🔹 Secure Your Garage

• If your garage has a window, install a curtain or use frosted/glass block windows to prevent burglars from seeing inside.

• Add Shatter Safe film to garage windows to make break-ins more difficult.

Why It’s Important to Secure Your Home Immediately

Criminals often watch for new homeowners moving in, assessing valuable items like TVs, electronics, and furniture. Many break-ins occur within the first week after move-in.

Real-Life Example:
A couple who purchased a ground-floor condo in a small building experienced a break-in within their first week. After installing door reinforcements, a security system, and additional lighting, they had no further issues. Taking these precautions early can prevent potential incidents.

Final Thoughts: Prioritize Your Home’s Security

✔ Complete essential security upgrades as soon as you move in.
✔ If needed, check with your HOA about improving building-wide security.
✔ Taking proactive steps now can prevent break-ins later.

If you need recommendations for locksmiths, security providers, or hardware stores, feel free to reach out. Your safety and peace of mind are our top priorities!