HomeSecurityDaily

The 25-Point Home Security Checklist

Simple, practical steps that make your home a harder target — based on how burglars actually choose houses.

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A. Doors & Entry Points (1–7)

  1. Replace short strike-plate screws with 3-inch screws — 5-minute fix, dramatically stronger door frame.
  2. Add a secondary lock or security bar on sliding glass doors (a cut dowel works tonight).
  3. Check every exterior door: solid core, no gaps, peephole or camera at eye level.
  4. Lock the garage interior door — and never leave the opener in an unlocked car.
  5. Secure or remove the spare key — no mats, no planters, no above-the-door.
  6. Trim shrubs and trees near ground-floor windows and doors — remove hiding spots.
  7. Install motion lights over entries and dark sides of the house.

B. Detection & Deterrence (8–14)

  1. Place visible cameras at the front door, driveway, and back door — visibility deters.
  2. Add contact sensors on all ground-floor windows and exterior doors.
  3. Choose 24/7 professional monitoring with cellular backup (works when Wi-Fi/power don't).
  4. Put up yard sign + window decals — after the system is actually installed.
  5. Enable phone alerts for every sensor, not just alarms.
  6. Test the whole system monthly — sensors, sirens, and monitoring response.
  7. Don't advertise your setup: no system photos online, ever.

C. While You're Away (15–20)

  1. Never post vacation plans or photos in real time — post after you're back.
  2. Put lights on randomized timers — a house that "behaves" normally.
  3. Hold mail and packages, or have a neighbor collect daily.
  4. Arrange snow/mowing/lights care — an inactive house tells a story.
  5. Ask a trusted neighbor to park in your driveway occasionally.
  6. Leave a radio or TV on a timer — voices and noise deter.

D. Habits & Community (21–25)

  1. Join / start a neighborhood watch or group chat — nosy neighbors are top-tier security.
  2. Report door-knockers and "sales" visits that don't feel right — burglars often knock first.
  3. Don't leave ladders, tools, or crates outside — free burglary equipment.
  4. Lock up even for a 5-minute errand — most entries take under 60 seconds.
  5. Walk your property once a month like a burglar would: where would YOU get in?

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Not professional advice: Security steps reduce risk; no measure guarantees prevention. Verify all product claims with the provider.