Security Tips for New Homeowners

Congratulations, all of your hard work has finally paid off. You have successfully survived the paperwork trail and inspections, now you are the proud owner of your dream home. Take a moment to enjoy your accomplishments because now a new "to do list" awaits. There's packing, unpacking, decorating, putting up curtains, grocery shopping, etc. It can be overwhelming to say the least, but while you are distracted by your endless list you could be neglecting what matters most, your safety and security. Burglars know that new homeowners can be distracted during their move, add the following to the top of your list to ensure that your family and new home are safe and secure.

Change all locks

Before you start unpacking, make arrangements to have all the locks in your new home changed. Chances are you have no idea who has a copy of your key and access to your home. This also gives you an opportunity to invest in the security of your new home by upgrading to quality locks, deadbolts and strike plates. Unfortunately your new home does not come with an instruction manual, so if there is an existing security system Security Essentials & Home Entertainment is here for you. We will completely update your current system to SE standards, teach you how to operate your system and update all codes free of charge when you choose our contract free, 24/7 monitoring for only 19.95/month. Lastly, do not forget to change any and all codes that provide access to you property, including garage doors.

Observe your surroundings

Moving can be a very hectic and stressful time but it's very important that you take time to get to know your surroundings. Because you are new to the area you are not yet aware of what is normal, so how will you be able to pin-point suspicious activity? Take time to observe the daily routines of your neighborhood and the types of vehicles that your neighbors drive. Familiarize yourself with the flow of traffic on your street; how common are service providers, construction crews, deliveries, solicitors, etc? If you are really new to an area it wouldn't be a bad idea to get a crime report of the area from the local police department.

Introduce yourself to the neighbors

Your neighbors are the best resource for information about the neighborhood. Introduce yourself and find out if a neighborhood watch program exists, if so get involved. If a watch program doesn't exist, make it a point to get to know your neighbors on a first name basis and exchange contact information for emergency purposes. This is a great way for everyone to share in the communities overall level of safety and security.

Look at your new home through the eyes of a burglar

If you were a burglar, could you break into your home? Look around the exterior of your home for missing screens, check your windows and doors for weak locks, and make sure ladders or any other tools that could be used to get access to your home are stored properly. Keep your garage door closed and locked. Check all outdoor lighting and consider installing motion sensor lights around all entry points. Reevaluate your landscaping; tall trees, shrubbery, and bushes around windows provide excellent hiding spots for burglars.

Maintenance

Inspect your new home to ensure that everything is working properly. Check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries if needed. Have your heating and cooling systems inspected by a professional and replace or clean all filters. Windows are a popular entry point for burglars, checking that your windows lock securely is an easy way to keep your home secure.

Install a security system

Installing a security and surveillance system is your best defense in protecting your family, possessions and new home. Every household is unique therefore finding a system that caters to your needs is important. A quality home alarm system has endless benefits. It will notify you and authorities if an intruder is suspected, whether you are home or away. It can also offer the benefit of alerting homeowners to a fire or carbon monoxide leak. Additionally, a professionally installed and monitored home security system can reduce your insurance premiums. Security Essentials & Home Entertainment offer affordable, reliable and dependable solutions for protecting your family.