Home security basics — what actually deters break-ins

This article is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Local codes, regulations, and best practices vary by region.

Your home is a target. Not because you’re special, but because opportunistic burglars look for easy targets and avoid difficult ones. Most break-ins are crimes of opportunity. The person breaking in is looking for something that appears unsecured and unmonitored. They’ll choose the house with a broken lock over the one with solid locks. They’ll pick the house that looks empty over the one where lights are on.

Home security is about removing opportunity. Expensive alarm systems aren’t the foundation. Basics like solid locks, good lighting, and an occupied appearance are more important.

What Criminals Actually Avoid

Visibility and monitoring deter burglars. A house where neighbors can see the driveway and front door is harder to target. A house with lights on and activity visible is less appealing. Cameras that are actually visible (even if fake) make a burglar more likely to target elsewhere.

Friction makes burglary harder. A house with locked doors and windows takes more time and effort. A broken lock or window left cracked is an invitation.

Signs of occupancy matter. A house that looks empty (dark, no cars, no activity, accumulated mail) is appealing. A house where someone clearly lives is riskier.

Basic Locks and Entry Security

Your front and back doors should have solid locks. A deadbolt is better than a push-button lock. Good deadbolts cost $30 to $100 and add significant security. Install them properly so they extend into the door frame at least one inch.

Sliding doors are inherently weaker than hinged doors. A bar in the track prevents opening from outside. Simple lockable slider locks exist. For a sliding glass door, breaking the glass is possible, but a sturdy lock makes it obvious you’ve considered the risk.

Garage doors should be locked if accessible to potential intruders. An open garage means someone’s home and values aren’t being watched.

Garage side doors (if your garage has an entry from the side yard) should be locked like exterior doors. Garage doors that open to the home should be solid and lockable from inside.

Lighting and Visibility

Exterior lights (front, back, sides) eliminate dark hiding spots. Motion-sensing lights are effective because they activate when someone approaches, drawing attention to movement.

Visibility from the street and from neighbors’ properties matters. Trim bushes so they don’t provide hiding places. Keep the front porch visible and lit.

Interior lighting matters too. Lights on in the evening (even just in a few rooms) signal occupancy. Timers on lights when you’re away can simulate occupancy.

Landscaping and Perimeter

Landscaping should provide visibility, not cover. Low-growing shrubs near doors and windows are fine. Tall bushes against the house create hiding places.

Dead or dying landscaping signals neglect and possible absenteeism. Well-maintained landscaping suggests someone cares about the property.

Windows and Vulnerable Openings

Windows should close and lock. If your windows don’t lock, adding simple window locks is cheap ($10 to $20 per window).

Ground-floor windows are more vulnerable. Consider locks or bars if security is a concern. Window film that prevents easy breaking is available but expensive.

Basement windows are often overlooked. Securing them is important if your basement has valuables or access to the house.

Occupancy Appearance

If you’re away regularly or for extended periods, take steps to appear occupied. Stop mail delivery if away for weeks. Have someone check the house. Leave lights and sometimes a radio on. Park something in the driveway.

Accumulated newspapers, mail, and packages signal no one’s home. That’s an obvious opportunity.

Security system signs (even if you don’t have a system) deter some burglars. The visual signal that security exists matters.

Valuables and Visibility

Don’t display valuables in windows or obvious locations. Expensive electronics or jewelry visible through a window advertises worth. Close blinds or curtains on dark windows so the interior isn’t visible from outside.

Avoid leaving packages visible on the porch. Taking packages inside immediately is important.

Security System Decision

A monitored alarm system ($40 to $80 monthly) adds a layer of security. Professional monitoring means police are called if the alarm trips. This is helpful if you’re away during the day or evening.

A DIY system (cameras, door sensors, self-monitoring) might be sufficient if you’re home frequently and can respond to alerts.

No system? Focus on the basics: good locks, visible lighting, occupied appearance.

Cost-Benefit Reality

The most effective security is free: locking doors, turning on lights, and maintaining an occupied appearance. The next level costs $500 to $2000: better locks, motion lights, visible cameras.

A comprehensive monitored security system adds $50 to $100 monthly and costs $1000 to $3000 upfront. This is worth it if you travel, have valuable items, or want professional monitoring.

The goal isn’t perfection. It’s being less appealing than the alternative. A burglar looking at your house should see obstacles, visibility, and someone home. They’ll move on to an easier target.

© The Whole Home Guide