Becoming a homeowner is one of those life-defining moments. After dealing with a lifetime of savings, bank loans, not to mention, homeowners insurance, you can sit back and enjoy the space you can finally call home. And since you’ve worked so hard for it, securing your home is of the most important investments you’ll make.  

Home burglaries happen every 18 seconds around the US (according to Safewise). Lemonade policyholders are a part of that stat – with more than 3,000 home theft claims filed. That’s why home safety should be part of its upkeep — just as you would repair your shed or mow the lawn. 

Here are 5 simple adjustments you can make in your home to deter burglars and secure one of your biggest investments.

1. Get a visible home security system

Getting a home security system that’s visible from outside of your home is one of the most effective ways to scare off burglars. Why? It turns out, 3 out of 5 burglars say that when they saw a security system, they decided to change their mind and target a different home, according to research conducted by University of Carolina. 

There are tons of different home security systems out there, but we recommend going the techy route. Smart security systems are more sophisticated than ever, offering advanced features and smart technology that old devices can’t offer (more on that later).

2. Train your brain to lock windows and doors

Around 30% of burglars enter homes through an unlocked door or window. This sounds obvious, but it’s so easy to forget to lock the windows when leaving the house in a rush. 

Mitch, a Lemonade Claims Experience Advocate who handles theft claims every day, told us:

“When forced entry burglaries happen, we usually see broken windows or pry marks on the door where the suspects gained entry into the home. Many folks honestly forget to lock their homes up before leaving their house.”

What’s the solution? If you simply picture yourself locking your door, it will help your mind form a concrete memory (according to a study by Maria C. D’Angelo et al). This method, called ‘unitization,’ can help you remember to lock your windows when the time comes, and therefore avoid a break-in. The more you try picturing yourself locking your doors or windows, the more effective it will be!

3. Convince thieves you’re home, using smart devices

If a burglar thinks you’re home, there’s a much smaller chance they’ll try to break in and steal your stuff. When interviewed by local Portland news outlet KGW, 86 burglars and inmates said they would choose not to break into a home if they heard a radio or TV, assuming someone was home.

Smart devices will do the trick. They can help you:

• 1. Simulate an intimidating dog bark — research shows burglars stay away from homes with dogs.
• 2. Create a schedule for your lights or TV to give the impression someone’s home.
• 3. Talk to uninvited guests who come knocking at your door with a smart doorbell!

4. Use motion sensor lights

Improving the lighting outside of your home can reduce crime and break-ins by 20 percent, according to the National Institute of Justice. Motion sensor lights are your best bet: Not only do they light up your backyard to deter thieves, but they also react to movement. So if someone approaches sensitive areas of your home – such as your garage or patio –  your backyard lights will let you know right away.

This is a simple and cost-effective way to scare off burglars who don’t want to be seen by others. Btw, solar panel lights are another great way to save money and utilize some earth-friendly green energy.

5. Tick off this quick home security checklist

1. Change your locks when you move into a new home

2. Install a hidden safe to lock up valuables

3. Double and triple check the credentials of any service professionals entering your home

4. Always lock up your home  – no matter how long you’re gone

5. If you have an alarm system, use it, even if you’re at home

6. Never leave a spare key out (keep a key at your neighbor’s if needed)

Before you go…

Once you’ve figured out which home security measures make sense for your home, put these items on your to-do list, stat. It’s all too easy to procrastinate researching security systems or visiting your neighbors, but it’s worth it. Sometimes, small changes can make the biggest difference.