Blog

Safe as houses?

Monday, October 9, 2017

As autumn fades the nights draw in. October is officially National Home Security Month (sponsored by Yale and with the support of the Thames Valley Police) and with a significant increase in burglaries once the clocks go back, it’s designed to raise awareness of home security by offering advice, information and support. Whether you are thinking of selling or staying put this winter, here are some tips from The Frost Partnership to keep you and your property “as safe as houses” giving your home added appeal in the process.

Homes with no security measures in place are five times more likely to be burgled than those with simple security measures! This doesn’t need to be expensive and by installing simple security measures that meet the required British standard, you can reduce home insurance premiums by up to 5%.

• Ensure external timber doors are secured with a mortice lock that meet British Standards

• If you have a PVC-u or composite door, consider upgrading the cylinder to a British Standard, TS007 Kitemarked model.

• Fit window locks to all ground floor windows and accessible ones upstairs

• Motion-sensitive lighting above doors, garages and side gates is a good idea

• Lighting is vital for security and new fittings can be aesthetically pleasing too.

Smart security is on the rise with an array of gadgets available to protect your home. Smart door locks give you secure access via PIN code, key card, remote fob, or smartphone. You can track who comes and goes through your front door, while CCTV systems and IP cameras allow remote viewing of your property using a smartphone app. In winter we light fires and use candles to make our homes feel warm and cosy so be vigilant about their use and install smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors where relevant. Most fire and rescue services offer FREE Home Fire Safety Checks designed to make you aware of potential fire risks in your home, what to do to reduce the risks and to have an escape plan should the worst happen.

When you’re away from home cancel mail deliveries and use automatic timer-switches to turn lights and radios on or off to make your property appear occupied. Motion activated security lighting increases visibility for you and your guests but also acts as a great deterrent to thieves. Outside, protect your boundaries with secure gates, hedges or fencing. High winds and winter weather play havoc with fences, roofing, pipes and brickwork so repair any problems before more work is needed. Keep sheds containing bikes, mowers and tools securely locked and above all take out good home and contents insurance.

Statistically the period between Halloween and Bonfire Night is the worst time of year for burglaries and domestic damage. A letterplate restrictor helps to prevent unwanted ‘tricks’ on Halloween and stops thieves from fishing keys through the letterbox. Remember not to share your Halloween plans on social media until after the event. This also applies to holiday plans - burglars use this information to target when your home will be left empty and vulnerable.

If you would like advice on making your property safe and welcoming for potential buyers, contact your local Frost office. We’re happy to provide professional advice on security matters and what you can do to enhance your property.