Telltale signs your home security may be compromised

Everybody has the right to feel safe and secure in their homes, but, unfortunately, burglars don’t take the feelings of their victims into account when they attempt a break-in.

Don’t make it easy for would-be thieves to enter your home. Ensure you can recognise the signs that your security might not be as robust as it should be. Here are some common red flag signs that your home security could be compromised.

Locks have been tampered with

If you suspect your locks have been tampered with, never ignore these warning signs, as a burglar could come back again for a second try. There are various indicators that suggest locks have been meddled with.

Keep a lookout for bending or twisting around the metal latches or deadbolts. Additionally, if you notice minute scratch marks around the keyhole, this could indicate that someone has tried to pick the lock. Marks or shiny edges surrounding the keyhole also suggest that a burglar has tried to force the lock by using a dummy key with filed down points – a technique known as bumping.

If you notice any of these signs, then make sure to call out a locksmith straight away.

Keys don’t turn easily

If your keys don’t turn as easily as they used to, chances are it might just be down to wear and tear, but it could also suggest that the lock has been picked. Either way, a locking mechanism that doesn’t function effectively could make it easier for a burglar to target, so contact a local locksmith to get the problem fixed.

Warped wood on frames

If the wood around your door or window frames appears warped or rotten, this could make it a lot easier for a burglar to remove the frame and enter your property. So regularly check frames around your house, as well as outbuildings such as sheds, and look for signs of wear and tear. Get them replaced as soon as possible.

Warped wood on frames may even be a sign of an attempted break-in through brute force, particularly if you notice any bits of splintered wood lying on the ground below.

Other signs to watch out for that could also indicate brute force include paint circles located near the lock fixture as if it was moved, loosened or retightened so that it’s out of place.

Windows don’t close properly

If you’re having trouble closing windows, perhaps because there is something wrong with the locking mechanism or the hinge, you could be putting your home at a higher security risk. Call out an expert to fix this problem as soon as you can.

You keep spare keys under a plant pot

When you have lost keys and need to get into your home, you might not always have the number of an emergency locksmith to hand, so it’s understandable that some people leave a spare set of keys in hidden places, in case of such emergencies. However, if you hide keys outside, particularly in obvious places such as under a plant pot or doormat, be aware that this is a warning sign that you could be compromising the security of your home. Burglars are fully aware of all the common places people hide keys, and they may even spot you using them, making their job a whole lot easier.

If you need to keep a set of spare keys handy, consider getting an outdoor key safe box attached to the wall or leave a key with a trusted neighbour.

When your home security is compromised, make sure to contact Lockout247, to keep your property as safe and secure as possible.