Our property is our private space, and we all want to protect the feeling of being safe at home as much as the belongings inside. Intruder deterrents can be a significant investment, but with 8,370,000 domestic burglaries in England and Wales in the year ending September 2023 it’s clear that they’re vital to safeguarding your home.
Although some initial expenditure is required, securing your home can help you save money overall. Take a look at how home security systems can reduce your costs and how best to upgrade.
Theft Deterrent
Most obviously, home security systems are a theft deterrent, so your belongings are less likely to be damaged or stolen. This means that there’s a lower chance of you having to pay for replacements.
Home Insurance
Many UK companies providing home insurance offer a discount on policy premiums for customers who can prove a strong security system.
Recording devices, locks certified by the British Standards Institution and safes for valuables are all examples of security measures that could lower the cost of your insurance premium.
Remote Access
Have you ever had to reschedule a delivery because no one was in, or paid more to ensure delivery at the weekend or between set hours outside of your working day?
Fitting gates that can be linked to your digital devices enables you to grant remote access to your home from anywhere in the world. This means an end to delivery frustrating and overpaying.
Smart Lighting
A well-lit house is an unappealing target to a burglar, but the cost of electricity can make this option unappealing to homeowners too. New smart lighting systems use the internet and the latest artificial intelligence (AI) technology to optimise electricity use and lower your bills.
Examples of smart lighting systems include timers, making the lights adjustable from your smartphone, and using solar to power the bulbs.
4 Ways To Improve Home Security
There are many ways to improve your home security design, but the four must-haves are:
Burglar alarm
Larger properties containing contents of substantial value should consider monitored models for a faster police response in the event of a break-in.
New locks
Upgrade your doors and windows to locks certified by the UK’s National Standards Body for optimum security and potential insurance savings.
Exterior lights
Fit lamps on either side of your doors, overlooking the garden and in dark areas down the side of the property, utilising sensors or smart technology to save energy.
CCTV
Video monitoring systems such as doorbell cameras are becoming increasingly popular, allowing you to see people who approach the property via your digital devices.