The Ultimate Home Security Checklist

October 3, 2024

National Home Security Month: The Ultimate Home Security Checklist - Stay Safe and Secure Year-Round

As National Home Security Month 2024 approaches, it's an opportune moment for homeowners to reassess the security measures in place to safeguard their properties. At Aldridge Security, we believe that proactive, year-round security is crucial to protecting your home from potential threats. Prevention isn’t just about installing the latest technology; it’s about creating a well-rounded security plan that addresses physical vulnerabilities and integrates smart solutions.

Whether you're securing the basics like door locks or embracing advanced smart technologies such as Smart Locks and video doorbells this comprehensive checklist will guide you through the essential steps to ensure your home is protected 24/7, 365 days a year.

1) Reinforce Door and Window Security
Your doors and windows are the primary points of entry for intruders, so it’s critical that they are secure.

Inspect All Locks
Start by thoroughly checking all the locks in your home, particularly on exterior doors and windows. If you find any locks that are sticking, loose, or not locking properly, it’s time to replace or repair them.

Upgrade to Deadbolts and High-Security Locks
For added protection, upgrade your standard locks to deadbolts or mortice locks, which are more resistant to forced entry. Consider installing smart locks that offer keyless entry and the ability to lock or unlock doors remotely via smartphone apps. With smart locks, you can track who enters your home and provide temporary access codes to trusted visitors like service providers or guests.

Install Security Grilles
For particularly vulnerable windows, such as those on the ground floor or in secluded areas, adding security grilles or bars can serve as a powerful deterrent. These are especially helpful in deterring “smash-and-grab” style break-ins.

Don’t Forget Sliding Doors
Sliding glass doors are often a weak point in home security. Reinforce them with locks, door pins, or metal bars to prevent them from being forced open. You can also install sensors that will alert you if the door is opened while the security system is active.

2) Secure the Perimeter
A well-defended perimeter is your home’s first line of defense. Securing fences, gates, sheds and garages not only protects against break-ins but also deters opportunistic criminals looking for easy targets.

Check Gates and Fences
Walk the perimeter of your property and check that all fences and gates are in good condition. Ensure that gates are equipped with sturdy locks, such as padlocks or deadbolts, that can withstand tampering. Fix any broken sections of fencing that might provide intruders with easy access.

Monitor with Outdoor Security Cameras
Install CCTV cameras to cover entry points like driveways, garages, and side gates. Today’s systems often include motion detection features that send real-time alerts to your phone when someone enters the monitored area. Make sure your cameras are strategically placed in areas with high visibility, and ensure that their night vision capabilities are up to par for the darker months.

Protect the Garage & Sheds
Garages and sheds are often overlooked but can provide intruders with easy access to your home and valuable items. Ensure your garage door has a sturdy lock and, if it's automated, that it can’t be easily overridden. Consider adding motion detectors, security cameras, or smart garage door openers that allow remote control and alerts in case of unauthorized access.

3. Install Proper Lighting
Effective lighting is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to deter intruders. A well-lit home discourages criminals from approaching, as it increases the likelihood they will be seen.

Motion-Activated Lighting
Install motion-activated floodlights around the exterior of your home, particularly at vulnerable points such as entrances, driveways, and pathways. These lights only activate when someone is near, drawing attention to their presence and startling potential intruders. Modern systems allow homeowners to adjust the sensitivity and range of the motion sensors to avoid false alarms.

Solar-Powered Lighting
For a low-maintenance, eco-friendly option, consider installing solar-powered lights. These lights charge during the day and illuminate your yard and entrances at night. They’re perfect for areas that are difficult to wire, like gardens, patios, or outbuildings.

Smart Lighting Integration
Take your home’s lighting to the next level with smart lights. These systems can be controlled remotely or set to turn on and off at specific times, giving the appearance that someone is home even when the house is unoccupied. Integrating your lighting with a smart home security system allows for automated responses—such as turning on the lights when motion is detected in certain areas of the property.

4. Consider Smart Home Integration
Today, smart home technology is more accessible and affordable than ever. Incorporating smart security solutions into your home doesn’t just add convenience—it offers heightened security and peace of mind.

Install Video Doorbells
With a video doorbell, homeowners can see, speak to, and even record visitors before they open the door. These devices connect to your smartphone, allowing you to monitor your front door remotely—whether you’re home or away. Many video doorbells also come with motion detection and night vision, providing 24/7 monitoring.

Smart Locks and Remote Access
Smart locks eliminate the need for physical keys, which can be lost or stolen. They offer keyless entry via smartphone apps, and many allow you to monitor when and who enters your home. You can also issue temporary digital keys to trusted individuals, and the lock will notify you when they’ve been used.

Remote Monitoring Systems
Smart security cameras can be linked to a home automation system to provide remote access to live footage and alerts. Set up a network of cameras to monitor the entire perimeter of your home, and sync it to your smartphone or home hub for real-time surveillance and alerts.

Smart Alarm Systems
Modern alarm systems now come with smart features like remote arming and disarming, direct integration with police services, and instant alerts to your phone. These systems can also sync with other smart home features such as lighting and video monitoring, giving you a full suite of protection that you can control with a single app.

5. Don’t Forget Regular Maintenance
Even the best security system needs regular upkeep to remain effective. Make sure you advise clients to perform routine checks on their security systems, such as testing alarms, checking for software updates, and ensuring all equipment is functioning as it should.

Test Security Alarms and Cameras
Set a reminder to test your home’s alarms and cameras at least twice a year. Make sure that sensors, alarms, and cameras are working correctly and that all notifications are reaching your smartphone or monitoring service.

Replace Batteries
For battery-powered security devices, ensure batteries are replaced regularly to prevent outages. Many modern systems provide low-battery alerts, but it’s good practice to check them yourself periodically—especially before travel or extended absences.

Update Firmware and Software
Security systems and smart home devices often require firmware or software updates. These updates improve functionality and fix vulnerabilities, so it’s crucial to stay current. Check for updates regularly or enable automatic updates where available.

National Home Security Month 2024 is the ideal time to evaluate and upgrade your home’s security. From reinforcing doors and windows to embracing the latest smart home technologies, these proactive steps will help protect your property from potential threats year-round. At Aldridge Security, we’re committed to providing expert solutions that keep you and your loved ones safe.

Use this comprehensive security checklist to ensure your home is as secure as possible so you can enjoy peace of mind, no matter the season.