Secure your new home with an alarm system
Buying a house is a lengthy process. A fast transaction could take place in 4 to 6 weeks, but longer transactions are not uncommon. If you’re unlucky, your purchase may not be finalised until several months have passed.
The anticipation and excitement comes to a head on completion day – the day when you get the keys. Most families can’t wait to empty the storage unit, call the removal company and get moving.
However, rushing into it can be a risk.
Home Security After Moving
Research shows us that you are most likely to be burgled if you have no security at all. When you first move into a house, this could apply to you.
For example:
- You might not know the code for the alarm, or you may struggle to operate it without the instructions.
- uPVC windows will probably have locking handles or sash jammers, but the previous owner may not leave all of the keys for you.
- There may be multiple copies of the front and back door keys, some of which the owner may not have passed on.
- While you are unpacking, you may unwittingly leave items where they could be taken by an opportunistic burglar.
- You may not appreciate the risks that your new property presents, such as single glazing or poor quality locks.
Overall, burglars unfortunately see new residents as easy targets, so it’s important to make home security a top priority from day one.
What to Do First
As soon as you have the keys, get the locks changed. During the sale of a property, there may be multiple copies of the keys scattered all over town, and changing the locks is first step to ensure security for your new home.
Next, it’s time to look at alarms. If the property has an intruder alarm, the previous owner probably hasn’t left you the code or instructions. Call us and we’ll visit to set it up. Note: It’s best not to try set an alarm until you know the code, since it will probably go off and you won’t be able to stop the bell. An alarm siren will be extremely distressing for you and your neighbours.
If the alarm does not have a bell, it may be a silent alarm that is monitored by a third party. Again, contact us to check that it’s working – don’t risk having the police called if the alarm is activated by accident.
Then, check the window locks, starting with any accessible windows downstairs. If you don’t have the keys, you’ll need to buy and fit replacement handles. This is generally inexpensive, and you can obtain handles from hardware stores. If your home does not have uPVC windows, seek advice on replacements.
Finally, speak to Angel Security about affordable CCTV for your home. Cameras over the front door or driveway are a great deterrent; they show a burglar that you have considered your home security and treat it as a priority. An intercom system will ensure unwanted visitors cannot call.
Enjoy Your New Home
Let Angel Security take the stress out of your home security. We fit and maintain alarms across the London and Surrey areas. For more information, contact us for a friendly, no-obligation chat.
