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The New Homeowner’s Security Checklist: 8 Things You Need To Do

Moving into a new home is an exciting time. It’s an adventure that’s equal parts stressful and fun, and it’s easy to become overwhelmed by everything you need to do. 

But before your mind runs wild with your craziest interior design fantasies, one thing should take priority above all else: security.

That’s why we’ve compiled a simple to-do list that will cover all your bases for new home security. Take a look, and before you know it, you’ll be back to assembling that dream wardrobe and deciding on future pet names.

1. Change the locks

Whether you’re renting or buying a new space, don’t skimp on changing the locks. Landlords and estate agents are obligated to do this. The reality, of course, is that if locks are fairly new, there’s a high chance they won’t bother. 

Stay safe by immediately replacing locks on doors and windows throughout the property, giving priority to the ground-floor and main entrance ways.

Upon moving in, give your local locksmith a call and have them check over the locks. Replacing will suffice, but if they have upgrades to recommend, hear them out! Security products are constantly improving.

2. Complete fixes and upgrades ASAP

Many new homeowners and renters will naturally start to notice disrepair after a couple of weeks living in their new place. Our lives are busy, so you’d be forgiven for turning a blind eye to small things, like windows that get jammed, or stiff door hinges.

Red sold sign nailed to an estate agent’s ad

However, it is important to complete any fixes, big or small, as and when you notice them. For renters, this will be a matter of calling up your landlord, but for homeowners, you’ll be responsible for arranging the necessary fixes. 

3. Test all detectors and alarms

Recommended reading: Fire Alarm Keeps Going Off? Here’s What To Do

4. Check for fire hazards

A red fire truck turns

If you’re ever unsure about the fire safety of your home, the best way to get peace of mind is to simply book a fire safety assessment with your local fire department.

This will generally involve a professional coming into your home to assess it, providing recommendations as to how to go about improving your safety.

5. Security cameras

6. Security lighting

7. Deep clean

Conducting a deep clean of your new home is advisable for several reasons. 

8. Emergency numbers

When it comes to security, we’re firm believers in the technologies of the future: only the newest and most advanced will do. Yet, sometimes, the old school ways suffice. 

Upon moving into your new property, begin to compile a list of emergency numbers. This will be the contact information for next-of-kin, everyone living in the property, local locksmiths, emergency breakdown cover, electricians, plumbers, and landlords.

A young family sits on the floor of their empty new home

Obviously, this information should all be saved on the phones of everyone living in the property, but also having it somewhere obvious, like stuck to the fridge, is also advisable. 

In the event of an emergency, you’ll probably be a little panicked, so having all the necessary contact information in one obvious place will come in handy.

Conclusion

Did we forget to congratulate you on moving into your new home? Probably, but that’s only because we’re so passionate about security! Moving can get hectic fast, so it’s good to follow a checklist of essentials to do once you move in.

We want you to have the best experience possible, and the way to do that is to deal with what’s necessary first, so that you can feel at ease in your new home in no time. On that note, we’ll let you get back to unpacking.