If you want to feel more protected, it's easy to make improvements to increase your safety. Use our checklist to conduct an easy security audit on your home.
Home security checklist
Do you have an alarm system?
An alarm is a great way of deterring a burglar. If they do try to break-in anyway, a monitored alarm means security won't be too far away.
Do you have exterior lighting with movement sensors, front & rear?
Movement sensors automatically switch on outside lights when movement is detected around your house. This is great for deterring burglars and allows you to see if anyone is lurking in the shadows.
Is the front of your home visible from the street?
The possibility of being seen by a neighbour or passer-by is a big deterrent for a burglar. A high wall at the front will hide a burglar should they make it over the fence or even walk through the gate. The front of your house should be visible from the street.
Do you have a Western Power approved lock with viewing window on your meter box?
Meter boxes should be locked to stop people tampering with your power supply. A viewing window is important so Western Power can still read your meter.
Is your shed padlocked?
Not only can your tools be stolen, but if your shed isn't locked, a burglar can find something to help them break in.
Does your garage have a roller door?
A roller door protects your car and any possessions in it from thieves.
Is the garden enclosed by a high fence, hedge or other barrier?
Most burglaries in WA happen at the rear of the house. If a burglar can be seen walking to the backyard by neighbours or people just passing by, they are less likely to try.
Are shrubs trimmed to eliminate hiding places?
Burglars hate being seen. If you increase the chances of them being seen, you may minimise the risk of burglary too.
Can all doors be locked securely?
Statistics show that in many burglary cases not all entry points to a home are locked prior to the break-in. Many burglaries could be prevented with secure locks on doors and windows.
Could door locks be opened by breaking glass or a light wood panel near the lock?
Some doors have a glass pane either next to the door or as part of the door itself. If keys are left on the inside of the door a burglar could easily break the glass and open it. Ensure that if your door is locked, the keys are out of sight.
Is there a peephole or interview grille in the main door?
Burglars have been known to knock to see if anyone is home. People should not open their door to people they do not know. A peephole is essential to maintaining security.
Do you have a security door with an Australian Standard triple locking system?
It is important that your door locks are the best you can afford. If good quality locks are used burglars are likely to try their luck somewhere else.
Is a deadlock installed on the main door and in good working order?
A deadlock is a great way to deter burglars. If they want to try and break in, it certainly makes it harder.
Are windows capable of being locked in a partially opened position?
During hot summer months people often leave windows open to allow fresh air to circulate. Make sure that windows can be locked in a partially open position.
Are all window locks keyed alike?
In an emergency (such as a fire) windows need to be opened quickly. If all windows have the same key, this makes it easier.
Do you have security screens fitted to windows?
Security screens act as a deterrent to burglars and they also increase the effort needed to get in.
Do you know the name and phone numbers of your neighbours?
Neighbours are a great deterrent to burglars. If a burglar knows he is being watched he is likely to try his luck elsewhere. If you know your neighbours you can keep an eye on each other's houses.
RAC Home Security
If you’d like to improve your home security, RAC can provide you with a free in-home security consultation, plus as an RAC member you will enjoy a range of discounts on home security products.
RAC Member Security Survey, November 2018. 551 respondents
