If you’re fortunate enough to be able to build the home you’ve always wanted, then you’ll experience a vast range of emotions throughout the journey. The most common, of course, is excitement. Indeed, you’ll want to enjoy the process, but don’t let this distract you from some of the finer and more serious details that are part and parcel of building your own home. Home security should also be a priority from the get-go, whether it’s to prevent metal scrap thieves or to intimidate potential burglars.
- Secure all entrances
In hindsight, securing any entrances on the property is an obvious step in the construction process. However, you’ll be surprised to learn that locksmiths commonly come across homes that have only installed locks on the doors with plenty of other openings left vulnerable. This often includes things like windows and cat flaps. Ideally, any large entrances should be accounted for and fixed with a secure lock to ensure you’re not advertising your home as an open house to everyone.
- Outdoor lighting
Outdoor lighting is a smart and cost-effective way to deter unwanted company. Many homeowners have taken it upon themselves to install motion detected lighting for the exterior of their house. While you can purchase sensor lighting that will trigger an alarm if any perpetrators get too close, you can save yourself money and purchase those that only light up when they sense movement – the culprit will be none the wiser and you’ll have dampened their thieving intentions.
- Invest in a home security system
Following on from the previous point, you may want to enhance your chances of noticing a miscreant by installing a home security system that will alert you whenever someone is trespassing on your property. Not only does it alert yourself to the issue, but the commotion of noise and lights will most likely warn the burglar off from attempting to breach your property again. Naturally, these pieces of technology are pricey. On the other hand, your self-built home will have wrapped up a substantial number of hours and expenses. With this in mind, expensive measures may be what it takes to protect your home.
- Carefully plan your interior layout
When it comes to deciding where to place your furniture, make sure you plan for security and safety, as well as functionality and design. For example, to discourage breaking and entering by window, you could place a potted plant underneath that would make the procedure of climbing in more difficult. Another example would be to ensure you keep walkways clear for an easy escape in the case of a fire. Smart furniture planning is a simple yet effective trick to secure your home from the inside. There’s plenty to think about when building your own home and it’s easy to get swept away in the design, materials and trends. Nonetheless, experts suggest you safeguard your project or home first. By following one or two of the suggested tips above, you’ll be maximising your property’s security to a point where you can easily continue the rest of the journey with complete peace of mind.