How Burglars Choose Their Targets
Before we jump into the test, let’s take a look at how burglars operate. They don’t just pick a house at random; they scout for weaknesses.
What Criminals Look For
- Unlocked doors or windows (surprisingly common!).
- Old or weak locks that can be picked or forced.
- Dark or hidden entry points (back doors, side windows).
- No visible alarm or CCTV cameras.
- Signs that no one is home—piled-up post, no lights on at night.
Burglary Facts in the UK
- The most common entry point for burglars is the front door, followed by ground-floor windows.
- A burglary happens every 106 seconds in the UK.
- 60% of burglaries happen between 6 pm and 6 am when it's dark.
- Homes without security measures are five times more likely to be broken into.
Burglars are opportunists. If your home is difficult to break into, they’ll move on to an easier target. So, let’s find out if your home passes the security test.
The Home Security Test – How Secure Is Your Home?
Answer the following questions honestly. If you answer “No” to any of them, it’s time to step up your home security.
1. Door Security – Is Your Front Door a Weak Spot?
🔲 Do you have a British Standard BS3621 lock on your front door?
🔲 Is your door made of solid wood or metal?
🔲 Do you have a spy hole or doorbell camera to check visitors?
🔲 Are your door hinges secure and protected from tampering?
🔲 Is there a letterbox restrictor to prevent lock manipulation?
💡 Expert Tip: Many burglaries happen because doors are weak, not just the locks. Reinforcing your door frame and upgrading to an anti-snap lock makes a huge difference.
2. Window Security – Are Your Windows an Easy Entry Point?
🔲 Do all ground-floor and accessible windows have key-operated locks?
🔲 Are windows kept locked when not in use?
🔲 Is the glass toughened or laminated to prevent easy breakage?
🔲 Are window locks visible from the outside to deter burglars?
💡 Expert Tip: Even a simple window lock can prevent an opportunistic break-in. Burglars prefer easy access—if a window resists, they’ll likely give up.
3. Outdoor & Perimeter Security – Do You Have Hidden Weaknesses?
🔲 Is your garden fence at least 6ft tall with a secure gate?
🔲 Do you have motion-activated lights covering all entry points?
🔲 Is your front garden open and visible, preventing hiding spots?
🔲 Are your side and back doors just as secure as your front door?
💡 Expert Tip: If a burglar has to climb a tall fence or get through a locked gate, they risk being seen and will likely move on to an easier house.
4. Alarm & Surveillance – Do You Have a Deterrent?
🔲 Do you have a working burglar alarm (and is it visible)?
🔲 Do you have CCTV cameras or a video doorbell?
🔲 Are your security systems regularly tested and maintained?
💡 Expert Tip: Burglars avoid homes with visible security cameras. Even a simple video doorbell can be a strong deterrent.
5. Daily Habits – Are You Making Your Home a Target?
🔲 Do you lock all doors and windows when leaving, even briefly?
🔲 Are spare keys kept inside rather than under a doormat or flowerpot?
🔲 Do you avoid posting holiday plans on social media?
🔲 Do you use timers on lights to make your home look occupied?
💡 Expert Tip: One of the easiest ways to prevent burglary is simply locking up properly. Many break-ins happen because a door or window was left open!
How to Fix Any Weaknesses in Your Home Security
If you answered “No” to any of the questions above, don’t worry—there are simple fixes to make your home more secure.
Upgrade Your Locks and Entry Points
- Use BS3621-rated locks on doors (insurance companies often require these).
- Consider anti-snap, anti-drill, and anti-pick locks to prevent break-ins.
- Install a door reinforcement bar to strengthen your frame.
Improve Window and Outdoor Security
- Fit window locks on all accessible windows.
- Install gravel on driveways—it makes noise, which burglars hate!
- Add motion-activated lights around your home.
Invest in an Alarm or CCTV System
- A visible alarm system makes burglars think twice.
- A video doorbell lets you monitor visitors even when you’re away.
- Consider smart locks with keyless entry for added convenience and security.
Practice Good Security Habits
- Never leave keys near a letterbox or window where they can be fished out.
- If you lose a key, change your locks immediately.
- When moving into a new home, always replace the locks—you never know who has a copy of the old ones!
Conclusion: Is Your Home Really Secure?
Home security isn’t just about having locks—it’s about making sure your home is harder to break into than the next one. Burglars always look for the easiest target, and small changes can make a huge difference in keeping your home safe.
If you’re unsure about your home’s security, consider getting a professional locksmith to assess your property. They can spot weaknesses you might have missed and recommend the best security upgrades.
🔐 Don’t wait until it’s too late—take action now and protect your home!
