When you move into a new home, security should be one of your top priorities. Ensuring your property is safe and secure not only protects your investment but also provides peace of mind for you and your family. At West Country Surveyors, our RICS-accredited home surveys help identify potential security vulnerabilities in your new home. Here are some essential steps to take once you’ve moved in to bolster your home’s security.

1. Change the Door Locks

One of the first tasks you should tackle is changing the door locks. You can never be sure how many people have keys to the existing locks—previous owners, contractors, or even neighbours may have copies. Replacing the locks ensures that only you and your family have access to the property.

  1. Upgrade to High-Security Locks: Consider installing high-security locks, such as deadbolts or smart locks, which offer better protection against break-ins.
  2. Hire a Professional Locksmith: To ensure the job is done correctly, hire a professional locksmith to replace the locks on all exterior doors.

2. Update Security System Codes

If your new home comes with a security system, it’s crucial to change the security codes as soon as possible. The previous owners and anyone else with access to the system may still have the old codes.

  1. Change the Master Code: Start by updating the master code, then change any secondary codes for individual users.
  2. Check System Settings: Review the system’s settings to ensure all alarms, sensors, and monitoring services are active and functioning properly.

3. Reprogram Automatic Garage Door Remotes

Automatic garage doors are convenient, but they can also be a security risk if the remote controls haven’t been reprogrammed. This step ensures that only your remotes will work with the garage door opener.

  1. Reset the Garage Door Opener: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to reset the garage door opener and erase any old remote codes.
  2. Reprogram New Remotes: Program your remotes and test them to ensure they work correctly with the reset system.

4. Ensure External Security Lights Are Operational

External security lighting is a crucial deterrent against potential intruders. Check that all outdoor security lights are operational and properly positioned to cover key areas such as entrances, driveways, and pathways.

  1. Install Motion-Activated Lights: Consider upgrading to motion-activated lights, which automatically turn on when movement is detected, adding an extra layer of security.
  2. Regular Maintenance: Replace any burnt-out bulbs and clean the fixtures to ensure optimal performance.

How Our Home Surveys Can Help

At West Country Surveyors our RICS-accredited home surveys are designed to assess every aspect of your new property, including potential security vulnerabilities. During our surveys, we check for:

  1. The condition of door locks to recommend upgrades if necessary.
  2. The presence and functionality of security systems and their components.
  3. External features like garage doors and entry gates, which can impact the overall safety of your home.

Our comprehensive home surveys give you the information you need to make informed decisions about securing your new property. Our pre-inspection desktop enquiries also detail locally reported crime and if this is higher than usual we will let you know.

Taking these security measures after purchasing your new home is crucial to protecting your property and your family. By choosing West Country Surveyors, you can trust our survey will also help protect your future home, giving you peace of mind from before you move in!

Contact Us

For more information on securing your new home or to schedule a home survey, visit our website at www.westcountrysurveyors.co.uk. You can also reach us directly at 01823 429823 to discuss your specific needs. Our team of RICS chartered surveyors serves Somerset, Devon, Dorset, and Bristol, ensuring your new home is safe, secure, and ready for you to move in.