New Home Safety and Security Checklist

Secure Your Doors 

• Change the door locks and install a deadbolt. 
• Add a strike plate. 
• Upgrade to smart locks. 
• Boost security with a video doorbell.
• Reinforce sliding glass doors with window bars or dowels in the track.
• Add a door sensor or glass break sensor 

Secure Your Windows 

• Add window locks. 
• Reinforce glass with window security Film. 
• Install window or glass break sensors.
• Add window bars. 
• Plant prickly bushes under First Floor windows (but be sure to keep them trimmed) Light up the Landscape 
• Use motion-activated lights. 
• Save energy with solar-powered lights. 
• Put outdoor lights on a timer. 
• Check your landscaping for hiding spots. 
• Clear away or prune large trees and shrubs. 
• Keep entry points visible from the street 

Set up a Security System

• Get a feel for your neighborhood. 
• Get a home safety evaluation of your home. 
• Check out your home security options (DIY vs Professional installation).
• Choose home security system
• Customer service and brand reputation
• Smart home capabilities, Locks AC Shut Off  
• Monitored smoke, water, and carbon monoxide  

Outdoor Safety Checklist 

• Change the locks or upgrade to smart locks. 
• Add security lighting (motion detection / smart lightbulbs). 
• Ensure gates work, close tightly, and have a secure latch. 
• Consider adding two gate locks (top & bottom). 
• Check window screens. 
• Prune plants and trees. 
• Secure small entrances. 
• Make house numbers visible

Garage Safety Checklist 

• Replace automatic garage door openers clipped to visors, which thieves could use. Instead, opt  for a keychain remote or use home automation—and never leave the garage door open. o Smart garage door opener 

• Secure garage doors with extra locks. 
• Use a Garage Shield to cover your garage door’s emergency release cord. 
• Install motion-activated Floodlights.  
• Cover windows with interior curtains and blinds. Or consider an adhesive window covering 
• Protect your service entry and home entry doors with a single-sided deadbolt and reinforced  strike plate, using a minimum of 3-inch screws to secure it 

Bedroom and Living Spaces Safety Checklist 

• Create an emergency plan. 
• Compile a home inventory to save time and stress from potential damage or break-ins.
• Check smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. (Replace Batteries) 
• Check switch plates and outlet covers. 
• Get a fireproof safe and Gun Safe 
• Check for lead-based paint (especially in older homes). 
• Hire a chimney sweep 

Fun Facts  

➢ Pro Tip If you’re worried about yourself or another family member getting locked out of the  house, leave an extra key with a trusted neighbor. Even if your chosen friend doesn’t live very  close, it’s better to have an emergency key there than nowhere at all 

➢ Did you know? Adding a security system can also increase your home’s value in the long run  while protecting you from costly burglaries. And home automation can help save you money on  lighting, heating, and cooling expenses too. 

➢ Research Security Cameras and Alarm Systems Burglars have reported that they skip homes with security cameras and alarm systems. Find out what security systems are available, and identify which type makes sense for your home.

Download the complete list here.