Just Moved In? 10 Home Security Steps for Every New Homeowner

**Protect Your New Home: 10 Essential Security Steps for Every New Homeowner**

As you finally step into your new home, the excitement of making it your own can often overshadow a crucial aspect of homeownership: security. According to Philip Farina, a seasoned security advisor, many homeowners underestimate the risks of break-ins and violent crimes, assuming that a locked door and a working porch light are sufficient deterrents. However, the reality is that most residences are vulnerable to security breaches, regardless of their location. As a new homeowner, it's essential to take proactive steps to safeguard your property and loved ones. In this article, we'll explore the 10 critical security measures to prioritize after moving into your new home.

Background & Context

When buying a new home, it's easy to get caught up in the thrill of unpacking and making it your own. However, security should be a top priority, just like unpacking and setting up utilities. The average homeowner may not realize that their new home comes with unknown access risks, including previous owners, contractors, cleaners, neighbors, and dog walkers who may still have keys, garage door openers, or app access.

Establishing a robust security system is not just about preventing break-ins; it's also about protecting your family's safety and well-being. A well-designed security system can provide peace of mind and help you enjoy your new home without worrying about potential security risks.

Key Details

Changing locks and codes is the first step in securing your new home. This includes rekeying locks, changing keypad codes, and resetting garage door openers. As Andrew Gardner, a real estate expert, advises, "It's essential to change the locks and codes as soon as possible to prevent unauthorized access." Don't forget to perform a factory reset on all smart devices and networks, including routers, cameras, doorbells, alarms, and smart locks, to ensure the previous owners lose app access.

Another critical aspect of home security is the quality of your doors and windows. Choose exterior doors made of solid metal or fiberglass, and ensure they have high-quality deadbolts that extend at least one to three inches from the door. Also, check that the latches on sliding patio doors are working correctly, and before going to bed, place a piece of wood in the track to prevent them from sliding open.

Window air conditioner units can be easily removed, allowing a criminal to access your home. To prevent this, purchase a cage that wraps around the A/C and bolts to your home's exterior. Additionally, consider investing in a smart door lock that can be controlled remotely and integrates with your home security system.

What Experts Say

Security experts agree that a well-designed security system is essential for protecting your new home. According to Jon Wallace, a security expert, "A simple and effective way to deter potential burglars is to install motion-activated lights on each exterior sidewall and solar LED path lighting to illuminate your front walkway. This helps prevent injuries and increases the visibility of doorbell and surveillance cameras."

Philip Farina emphasizes the importance of "Private property" and "no trespassing" signs, which can bring legal benefits, including reducing liability if someone gets injured after entering your yard without permission. If you have an alarm system, ask your vendor for signs, as they can be good deterrents.

Key Takeaways

• Change locks and codes:** Rekey locks, change keypad codes, and reset garage door openers to prevent unauthorized access.
• Check doors and windows:** Ensure exterior doors are made of solid metal or fiberglass, and high-quality deadbolts extend at least one to three inches from the door.
• Secure sliding patio doors:** Check that latches are working correctly, and place a piece of wood in the track to prevent them from sliding open.
• Install motion-activated lights:** Place lights on each exterior sidewall and solar LED path lighting to illuminate your front walkway.
• Use "Private property" and "no trespassing" signs:** Display signs to deter potential burglars and reduce liability.
• Perform a factory reset:** Reset all smart devices and networks, including routers, cameras, doorbells, alarms, and smart locks.
• Invest in a smart door lock:** Control your lock remotely and integrate it with your home security system.
• Secure window air conditioner units:** Purchase a cage that wraps around the A/C and bolts to your home's exterior.
• Regularly inspect your security system:** Ensure all components are functioning correctly and make adjustments as needed.
• Consider professional security advice:** Consult with a security expert to tailor a security system to your specific needs.

What This Means For You

As a new homeowner, securing your property and loved ones is a top priority. By following these 10 essential security steps, you can enjoy your new home with peace of mind. Remember to change locks and codes, check doors and windows, secure sliding patio doors, install motion-activated lights, and use "Private property" and "no trespassing" signs. Perform a factory reset, invest in a smart door lock, secure window air conditioner units, regularly inspect your security system, and consider professional security advice.

Don't wait until it's too late. Take proactive steps to safeguard your new home and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with it. Remember, a well-designed security system is not just about preventing break-ins; it's about protecting your family's safety and well-being.