Pay attention to home security and enjoy peace of mind

IN the light of the figures showing that 74 UK homes are burgled every hour, the National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA) is advising homebuyers to prioritise safety when moving into a new home.

“While overall burglary rates are down year-on-year, this statistic still indicates a real need for homebuyers to assess the security measures,” says Mark Hayward, President of the NAEA.

“People shouldn’t live in fear, but there are a few straightforward steps that can be taken to reduce a homeowner’s chances of falling victim to this particular crime.

“A new home is likely to be the biggest investment an individual can make. As one would carefully choose a high quality lock to secure an expensive bike, assessing the security of a home should be a key priority for any buyer.”

The Master Locksmiths Association also recommend changing the locks when you buy a new house. Although it adds extra cost, it can bring peace of mind.

MLA spokesman Steffan George, says: “The first thing you should do when you move into a new house is to replace the current locks using a vetted, qualified locksmith.

“Ideally replace locks with a patented or a restricted locking system, do make sure you pick the correct lock though. Patented keys carry legal protection, preventing copies being made without providing proof of ownership, while restricted keys are unlikely to be copied due to their unusual design and unique mechanical features. This means that extra keys can’t be made without your knowledge.

“Adding alarms, door chains, spy holes, and top/bottom bolts will also boost security.

“It is also important to check the locks on your windows and make sure you consider emergency escape routes when you are positioning furniture or installing new windows and doors.

“In the garden make sure all tools and ladders are safely stored away in locked garages and sheds and cut back any bushes or hedges that obstruct view and burglars could hide behind.”

The NAEA has the following security advice for homeowners and buyers:

The warmer summer months can mean the temptation to leave windows open is high. Even if you are leaving a property for a short time, always make sure all windows are shut and locked to deter opportunist thieves.

If you have any concerns about the location, ask the agent if the property has any history of burglaries. Under the new consumer protection regulations, agents are now obliged to disclose information that could affect your transactional decision.

If your new home doesn’t have a burglar alarm, consider installing one, as it is likely to reduce the risk of your home being burgled.

If the home already has an alarm, familiarise yourself with how it works and make sure you are able to set a new passcode. If the system relies on sensors around the home, check the batteries on a regular basis.

It’s an old trick, but thieves still employ letterbox theft to obtain car or house keys. Poles are often used to hook keys from hallway entrances, so keep valuables well away from the front door. If you are planning to fit a new front door, one with a letterbox placed towards the bottom can also help deter this sort of theft.

Dark spots can offer useful cover for anyone seeking to gain unauthorised entry to a property. Therefore, installing motion-sensitive lighting fixtures at access points above front doors and garage doors, gate entrances and in back gardens can serve as a useful deterrent.

Fitting timers to lighting indoors can also be a simple and effective disincentive to would-be intruders by giving the impression of activity when you are out.