Think your home is safe? You might be surprised. A lot of people assume their home is secure… until something happens. The truth is, many break-ins happen because of simple, avoidable mistakes. The good news? You can fix most of them quickly — and without spending a fortune.
1. Forgetting to Lock Doors and Windows
We’ve all been there—rushing out the door and forgetting to lock up. Or maybe you leave the back window cracked open for “fresh air.” Unlocked doors and windows are like an open door for burglars.
Fix It: Get in the habit of locking everything before you leave or go to bed. Do a quick walk-around to check. If you’re forgetful, try a sticky note on the door as a reminder. For windows, simple locks or even a wooden dowel in the track can stop them from sliding open.
2. Hiding Keys in Obvious Spots
A spare key under the welcome mat or in that fake rock? Burglars know to look there—it’s like leaving a gift out for them.
Fix It: Hand your spare key to a neighbor you trust or a family member nearby. If you really need one outside, get a lockbox with a code and tuck it somewhere sneaky, like behind a bush.
3. Leaving Your Yard Too Dark
A pitch-black front porch or backyard is perfect for someone sneaking around. If your place looks like a haunted house at night, you’re asking for trouble.
Fix It: Add motion-sensor lights by your doors and driveway. They’re cheap, and some run on solar power, so no wiring hassle. You can also get smart bulbs that turn on automatically at dusk or when you’re away.
4. Advertising You’re Not Home
Posting “Off to Hawaii for two weeks!” on social media is a big no-no. So is letting mail pile up or leaving your trash cans out for days. It’s like putting up a sign that says, “Nobody’s here!”
Fix It: Wait until you’re back to share vacation pics online. Ask a neighbor to grab your mail and packages. If you’re gone for a bit, set a lamp on a timer to make it look like someone’s home.
5. Skipping a Security System
Maybe you think alarms are too pricey, or you’ve got one but never turn it on because “it’s just a quick trip.” That’s leaving your home wide open.
Fix It: You don’t need a high-tech system. A video doorbell or a couple of wireless cameras can do wonders and won’t break the bank. If you have a system, use it every time you step out—even for five minutes. Many apps let you check on things from your phone.
6. Letting Bushes and Trees Get Wild
Overgrown shrubs by your windows or big trees blocking the view from the street are like a cozy hideout for bad guys. I had a friend whose house got broken into because tall bushes hid the intruder.
Fix It: Trim bushes to about knee-high and cut tree branches so they’re not touching the ground. It’s a weekend chore that makes a big difference. Bonus: plant prickly bushes, like holly, near windows to make climbing less appealing.
7. Having Weak Doors or Locks
A thin door or a wobbly lock is no match for a determined burglar. I’ve seen doors that look solid but give way with one good kick.
Fix It: Make sure your exterior doors are solid wood or metal. Swap out flimsy locks for deadbolts that go deep into the frame. For sliding doors, stick a broom handle in the track to keep them from being forced open. It’s a cheap fix that works.
8. Ignoring the Garage
Your garage isn’t just for storage—it’s often an easy way into your house. An open garage door or an unlocked side entrance is a burglar’s dream.
Fix It: Always lock the door from the garage to your house. Get a sturdy lock for any side doors. If you’re going away, unplug the garage door opener and use a manual lock or a zip tie to secure it. Smart openers can also ping your phone if the door’s left open.
9. Showing Off Valuables
Leaving your laptop on the dining table or a shiny new TV in view of the window is tempting fate. Burglars often peek through windows to spot easy grabs.
Fix It: Pull the curtains or blinds when you’re out. Tuck valuables like jewelry or electronics in drawers or a small safe. If you’ve got pricey gear, consider marking it with your initials to make it harder to sell if stolen.
10. Not Chatting with Neighbors
Your neighbors are like extra eyes on your house, but if you don’t know them, they won’t know when something’s off. I learned this when a neighbor spotted a weird van in my driveway and called me.
Fix It: Say hi to the folks next door. Swap phone numbers so you can text if something looks fishy. Even a casual “Can you keep an eye out?” before a trip can make your home safer. A neighborhood group chat works wonders, too.
