With burglaries costing homeowners an average of $2,661 per incident, you might think your home is Fort Knox, but simple oversights turn houses into thief magnets. Most DIY security setups give you a false sense of security, like trusting a toddler to guard your liquor cabinet. Consumer Reports found that five popular DIY systems could be easily jammed using inexpensive equipment. Here’s what turns your house into a target—and what actually works for protecting your home.
7. Overflowing or Uncollected Mail
Do you ever wonder how to avoid waving a neon “burglar buffet” sign from your front door? Before, your neglected mail piled up like a Jenga tower of junk, practically begging for attention. Now, with a little foresight, you can turn that vulnerability into Fort Knox.
Implementing a simple strategy—like having trusted neighbors collect your mail—turns your home into a less appealing target. Make sure that whoever you trust can keep the front appearing lived in. That’s cheaper than therapy after someone nabs your vintage silverware.
6. Unkempt Lawns or Unshoveled Snow
“Burglars look for the easiest target,” says security expert Marc Weber Tobias. If your lawn looks like it belongs in Little Shop of Horrors, or your driveway resembles a snowdrift Everest, you’re basically rolling out the welcome mat.
It’s winter and you’re out of town. Your neighbor’s driveway features abstract art created with a shovel. Yours? An untouched glacier. Security professionals advise that regular maintenance, and even random snow-shoveling patterns, deter criminals. Either hire a landscaping artist or befriend your neighbors.
5. Visible Valuables Near Windows
Visible valuables practically scream, “Come rob me!” If leaving for vacation makes you sweat more than hot yoga, it might be because your electronics and jewelry are on display.
The solution? Treat your home like Fort Knox. Store valuables out of sight; think stealth, not display. Little trinkets should find a hideaway, because a sock drawer just doesn’t cut it. Securing those prized possessions will ensure you return from that well-deserved getaway without having to file an insurance claim.
4. Predictable Patterns
Predictable patterns are prime intel for any would-be thief casing your joint. So ditch the Groundhog Day routine and mix things up.
Think of it as opsec for civilians: if your curtains open and close like clockwork and your lights are on a schedule as rigid as your spin class, you’re practically sending out an invitation. Security experts recommend varying your routine—opening curtains at random times and avoiding always-on lights. The goal is to blend into the background, not star in your own episode of Cribs: Target Edition.
3. No Outward Signs of Dogs or Neighborhood Watch Programs
A home without a canine sentry or community watch vibe is basically a welcome mat. Even a strategically placed dog bowl can trick a would-be thief into thinking twice.
A burglar choosing between your house and your neighbor’s will notice the differences. Your place? No dog, overgrown lawn, mail piled up. Neighbor’s? “Beware of Dog” sign, trimmed hedges, and busybodies watching every move. They’re going next door every time. A vigilant neighborhood watch—even if it’s just Gladys with her binoculars—is a solid deterrent. Consider also carrying self-defense gadgets when away from home.
2. Digital/Social Media Oversharing
Think your Instagram followers really care about your beach pics? Bragging about your travels online basically screams, “My house is empty, come on over!”
Sharing photos with house keys visible is basically handing them to strangers. Security professionals advise saving those vacation pics for when you’re back home, unless you want your souvenir shopping done by some light-fingered bandits. Keep your social media on a need-to-know basis, which is usually no one.
1. Failing to Lock Outbuildings, Garages, or Ladders
Ever leave your garage door cracked open “just a bit?” Burglars see that as an engraved invitation. Ladders in the backyard? Same difference.
A ladder in your yard makes reaching upper-floor windows child’s play for burglars—who aren’t known for their aversion to heights. Garage overhead doors are also easily jimmied. Securing these access points will force any would-be intruder to work harder, possibly moving on to an easier target. Consider installing a car alarm or similar security system for additional protection. If securing your home were as easy as “Netflix and chill,” wouldn’t everyone do it?
