12 Common Outdoor Security Mistakes Every Homeowner Makes

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For the most part, homeowners will spend time and money to take care of their interior spaces and make them safe havens. But in focusing on the inside, many neglect an equally important aspect: outdoor security. It’s tempting to believe that a fence or some lights will do the trick, but common oversights can leave your home open for unwanted attention.

This article highlights some of the most common outdoor security mistakes homeowners make so you can avoid them.

Poor Lighting

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One of the easiest ways to fend off burglars is with outdoor lighting, but many homeowners have too little, or they put it in the wrong place. Dark areas around your property will make perfect hiding spots. Key points to have illuminated are doors, windows, and areas where you would like them to step. Motion activated lights are a great choice, they save energy and scare off intruders when they are triggered.

Overgrown Bushes and Trees

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Lush landscaping can certainly add to curb appeal, but equally, it can give burglars cover. Bushes and trees that have grown over can make it easy for someone to sneak onto your property without you knowing. Trimming plants regularly – especially around any entrances – will eliminate these hiding places. Plant tall shrubs away from windows as well.

Not Using Security Cameras

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There are many homeowners, who overlook installing security cameras, believing that they are expensive and difficult to manage. But these modern options are more affordable and more user friendly than ever. Deterrence and as a useful tool to review any suspicious activities are what security cameras are for. Placed near entrances, garages, and backyards, they will cover the most area.

Neglecting Garage Security

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Home security is often a weak link in this case, namely garages. Often people forget to lock their garage door or use out of date security systems. A garage can be an easy point of entry into the house and some burglars know this. Always lock garage doors, upgrade old systems and use smart technology to remotely monitor the garage.

No Fence or Weak Fence

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Not all fences are good enough to protect you, but a solid fence can greatly improve your home’s security. Guess what: a low or ill kept fence actually makes your property more inviting to intruders. Choose a fence that is high enough to make easy access difficult and check it regularly looking for damage or weak spots.

Leaving Valuable Items Outside

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Expensive garden tools left outside, or lawn mowers, bicycles, will attract the wrong kind of attention. Not only do these items make quick steals, but they can also make the homeowner look careless with security. If you’re not using valuable items, make sure to always store them in locked sheds or garages.

Relying Solely on Locks

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Locks are important, but they’re not the end all be all of security. One of the biggest mistakes that many homeowners make is to think that a good lock is all the protection their home needs. The truth is that intruders who are determined can find a different way in. Beef up your home with extra security like window bars, alarm systems, reinforced doors.

Ignoring the Backyard

Outdoor Shower and Picnic Bench in the Yard of the Cabana Raposo Inn
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Most homeowners concentrate on securing the house from the front, while the backyard is neglected. Your backyards are generally secluded spaces which makes them attractive to intruders. Reducing potential risks to this area should be addressed by installing high fences, lock gates, adding lighting or cameras.

No Security Signs or Stickers

Security System Signage.
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If you don’t have a full security system, security signs or stickers can go a long way to deter would be thieves. Burglars go for homes that seem less risky, and a sign that your property is protected can make them reconsider.

Forgetting to Lock Windows

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According to Abus, windows are one of the weakest security points in many homes is windows. We forget to lock windows, especially those on the upper floors or those rooms we don’t use often. All windows should be securely locked and, if you have a security system, window sensors should be installed.

Not Knowing Your Neighbors

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Outdoor security is a great resource for your neighbors. If you don’t know them well, you may be missing an extra set of eyes on your home. Good relationships between the community and your neighbors can result in a safe community where neighbors keep an eye out for each other and report suspicious activity.

Not Testing Your Security System

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Even if you have a security system, it’s important to make sure that it’s working. A lot of homeowners will install systems, but they never look to see if they’re working. Every few months, run tests, change batteries in sensors and have a look at whatever footage is available to ensure that your system is running as it should be.

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.

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