Moving home top security tips
Dr Steffan George from the UK’s leading locksmithing trade association the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) offers his top tips on moving home security.
Moving home is said to be one of the most stressful times of our lives – between selling your old property, packing up your belongings, arranging finances and moving into your new home it’s easy to see why this is a high pressure time.
Although it’s an incredibly busy time it is also important you consider your long-term plans and issues such as security which if addressed and boosted early on, can save you time, money and heartache in the long-run.
When you move into a new house, always replace door locks using a vetted, inspected and qualified locksmith to ensure locks are installed correctly and in-line with insurance stipulations.
Ideally replace locks with a patented or a restricted locking system which offer greater reassurance to homeowners as keys can’t be easily copied without providing proof of ownership or due to their unique design.
Replacing your locks ensures previous owners or tenants do not still have unauthorised access to your home and you can easily track the new keys. When patented keys are stolen or go missing, the existing key can often be deleted from a locksmith’s key code database, the lock re-configured and new keys issued, ensuring that lost or stolen keys no longer work. This can also cheaper than replacing a whole lock.
Review all doors and windows to make sure the frames are in good repair and locks work properly. If you have any concerns, ask a security professional to review and / or replace.
Don’t forget outhouses and garages when reviewing your property and consider if any additional measures are needed such as bolts, window grilles, new locks or padlocks. Trim back any bushes or trees that obstruct view and could be hidden behind and always store garden equipment away to prevent opportunist thieves using items such as ladders to break into your home.
If you have an alarm fitted, change the code as soon as you move in and continue to regularly update your code while living in the property. If you have CCTV installed, ensure equipment is working correctly and it is positioned in a manner that suits your needs.
Adding, door chains, spy holes, top/bottom bolts and window locks will also boost security, while sensor lights or dusk-to-dawn lighting deters intruders and also makes it easier for your family and guests to access your home. You may also want to consider getting a safe professionally specified and installed. Finally, always use a reputable third party accredited tradesperson to install security in your home.
For further information or to find an approved MLA company please visit www.locksmiths.co.uk
