Secure Living: How to Make Your Home Burglar-Resistant

Burglars rarely choose at random. They look for a home they can enter quickly and unseen. The more obstacles you put in their way, the more likely they are to move on to the next address. In this article we walk through your home step by step, from the front door to the back garden.

Start with a walk around your house

Take a deliberate walk around your home, ideally after dark. Where would you get in if you had lost your key? Look for dark corners, tall shrubs in front of windows, a wheelie bin or garden chair that gives access to a flat roof, and a side gate that is not locked. These are exactly the places a burglar checks first.

The front door and back door

Most burglaries start at a door. An outdated cylinder that sticks out beyond the door fitting can be snapped or pulled out in a short time. Choose an SKG*** cylinder combined with anti-core-pulling security fittings. The fitting shields the cylinder so tools have nothing to grip.

Do not forget the back door: that is where a burglar can work calmly and out of sight. A multi-point lock secures the door in several places at once and makes forcing it with a crowbar much harder. Our technicians only install SKG-certified hardware in line with the Police Label Secure Housing (PKVW) guidelines. See all our services.

Windows, sliding doors and balcony doors

Ground-floor windows and windows that can be reached from an extension or shed are vulnerable. Lockable window handles stop a window from simply being opened after a pane is broken. Sliding doors can be further secured with anti-lift protection and an extra lock on the bottom rail.

Light and visibility

• Outdoor lights with motion sensors at the front and back door.
• Keep shrubs near windows trimmed so neighbours and passers-by can see.
• A timer on an indoor lamp when you are out in the evening or on holiday.

A burglar does not want to be seen. Anything that adds light and visibility works in your favour.

Habits that make a difference

Good locks only help if you use them. Do not just pull the door shut; always lock it with the key, even if you are only popping next door. Never hide a spare key under the mat or in a flowerpot, and only share your holiday on social media once you are back home. Store ladders and tools in a locked shed.

Technology as an extra layer

A camera or alarm system that sends alerts to your phone gives extra peace of mind, but it does not replace good locks. See it as a second layer: first make sure a burglar cannot get in quickly, then make sure you know straight away if someone tries.

Advice tailored to your home

No two homes are the same. We are happy to visit and look at where your house is vulnerable and which measures give the best result for your budget. Also read our 5 ways to prevent burglary or request a free quote.