Do you know anything about home security systems? If you feel lost, then you should keep reading to find out more information. Read on to learn as much as possible about this costly investment that will ensure your family’s safety.
Any time you buy a new home, have the locks changed. You have no way of knowing how many folks might have keys to your house. Have a locksmith install a brand new lock. You should also have your locks changed if you lose your keys.
You should only provide a house cleaner your key if you completely trust them. You need to ensure that they are honest and reputable according to references before you have handed over the key. Do a background check on them. If you hire a cleaner from a company, then you should check the company with the BBB.
Is your dog outside even if you are away? This is where you can put your spare key. Put it on your dog’s collar, making sure it is hidden. If you have a pet that does not trust strangers, this can help you get into your house if needed.
Don’t let strangers enter your home. Remember that intruders have a lot of experience with tricking people. Some people just want to know if there is a security system so they can plan on coming back later or not.
See if your area police department has any home security programs. They may offer neighborhood watch programs, home inspections, engraving tools for marking code numbers onto items so that they will be easily identified if stolen. Discuss the possibility of this sort of program with your police department.
Regardless of the quality of your home security system, you need to have it checked each year. Call the company and have them send someone to check it out. A number of things may cause your alarm system to have problems, including mother nature and wild animals. You might be unaware of problems that arise in some cases.
Have lights that are motion-sensor installed. When a person approaches your home, the lights will blaze. This is a good way of knowing who comes near your home and keeps you safe if you ever come home late. Remember that the bulbs need to be changed so that the lights keep working.
Be sure to secure the skylights to your home. While they are an excellent source of natural light, they are also an easy way for thieves to enter your home. Use heavy-duty hardware to secure your skylights to the roof.
Replace rotten wood on your door frame. It is simple for a robber to pry away rotting wood and enter your home. Always replace rotting wood with fresh wood immediately to keep your house strong and secure.
Change the locks on any new place you move into. Even if the tenants turned their keys in, they may have made copies. You can also put the locks on yourself so you can be sure no one else has a key.
Before you let security company representatives into your home, check their ID. Potential burglars can easily claim they are security company representatives so that they can enter your home. This can put your family and possessions in danger. Caution is always advisable if dangers like this are to be avoided.
Be certain to read the entire contract when you hire a home security firm. Sometimes there are hidden costs involved if you decide to let your service go before the contract expires or add additional equipment at a later point. Avoid nasty charges or fees regarding early termination, contract expiration and additional features or equipment.
Having your house lit up during the night is a good way to scare intruders. That’s because they want to remain hidden. By minimizing dark and shady areas, you are taking away a potential burglar’s hiding spots. Have lights that come on when they detect movement for best results.
Ask about the history of any home security company you are considering. It doesn’t take long for a quality company to prove itself in the security business, and you should look for a track record of satisfied customers and successful work. You may not feel as safe if you opt to go with a company that has not been in business for long or that does not have a stable history.
When you purchase an expensive item such as a computer or TV, be sure to take the cardboard box to the recycling center rather than leaving it on your curb for all the world to see. If thieves see these type of boxes outside your home, they may want to break in to steal the items. Break the boxes down, or take a scissors to them to help them fit in your trash can.
Keeping people out of various areas of your home does not have to involve using multiple locks and keys. Instead, use a numeric keypad. Many home security companies will install these, and there are also do it yourself kits available.
Your security company might give you the option to lease and eventually buy your security equipment. It might cost more at first when buying the equipment, but you don’t have the extra cost each month. You’ll pay higher monthly fees if you lease the equipment, and that will add up over time. Look into both choices to know which one is better for your personal circumstances.
Never make the password to your keypad your birthday. Your birth date is easy information to obtain. Think instead of a more creative way to keep track of your code.
Ask the security company you hire whether they have lights with motion sensors. Many providers can supply this, and it switches exterior lights on whenever anyone comes near a point of entry. Therefore, if a burglar approaches, you will know.
You should have a good idea of how you can protect your home after going over this article. If you know more, you will be more prepared in terms of making your decisions. Use the tips you’ve read here to begin.