Keeping your home safe doesn’t always mean investing in the most high-tech systems straight away. Often, the first step is to understand your current level of protection and identify the weak points. A do-it-yourself (DIY) home security audit is a practical way to assess risks and make informed improvements. From checking entry points to ensuring outdoor spaces are secure, this process can give you peace of mind and potentially prevent costly incidents. For instance, something as simple as upgrading your locks or investing in quality padlocks in Canberra can be a strong line of defence.

Step 1: Inspect All Entry Points

Doors and windows are the most common access points for intruders.
– Check that all doors, including side and back entries, have solid frames and functioning deadbolts.
– Inspect window locks to ensure they are not loose or easy to tamper with.
– If you have sliding doors, install security bars or secondary locks to prevent forced entry.

Step 2: Assess Outdoor Lighting

Dark areas around your property can provide cover for intruders. Walk around your home at night to identify poorly lit zones. Consider motion-sensor lights near entrances, garages, and pathways to deter suspicious activity.

Step 3: Secure the Perimeter

Your fences, gates, and sheds can sometimes be overlooked. Ensure fences are in good condition and gates can’t be easily lifted off their hinges. If you store valuable tools or equipment in sheds, use strong locks or padlocks to keep them secure.

Step 4: Review Your Alarm and Surveillance Systems

If you already have an alarm system, test it regularly to confirm it’s fully operational. For CCTV cameras, check the angles, visibility, and recording quality. Even fake cameras can serve as a deterrent, but a functioning system provides far greater assurance.

Step 5: Check Garage and Driveway Security

Garages often contain valuable items such as bikes, tools, or even direct access to your home. Ensure the garage door has a reliable locking mechanism and consider an additional lock for extra security. Keep driveways visible and free of tall shrubs that could hide intruders.

Step 6: Evaluate Indoor Security Habits

Sometimes, the biggest vulnerabilities come from daily routines.
– Avoid leaving spare keys in obvious spots like under doormats.
– Keep valuables out of sight from windows.
– Develop a habit of locking doors and windows, even when you’re home.

Step 7: Make a Security Improvement Plan

After completing your audit, write down the areas that need attention. Prioritise urgent fixes like broken locks or exposed valuables. From there, you can gradually invest in upgrades such as stronger locks, security doors, or smart home systems.

Conducting a DIY home security audit is an empowering way to take control of your household safety

By regularly checking and improving your home’s defences, you significantly reduce the risk of burglary and create a safer environment for your family. Start small—whether that’s installing outdoor lighting or reinforcing sheds with sturdy padlocks—and build up your security measures over time.