While buying a new home and getting settled into your new life is an exciting step, securing your home might not be on the top of your to-do list. Owning a home is not only an important milestone in life, but it is also an investment for your future. With the help of an experienced and skilled insurance claims attorney, setting up your security measures is a breeze. To make sure that your investment and, more importantly, your family is protected from burglars and home invasions, follow these tips from our team.

Unsure if your home's security is enough to give you the protection you need? Contact the experienced insurance lawyers at the Law Offices of Michael B. Brehne, P.A., to schedule a free consultation.

Get To Know Your Neighbors

While getting to know your neighbors might seem like a formality when first moving into a new neighborhood, it's a great way to ward off any potential burglars. As you get to know and get closer to the people in your community, it means that you will have some extra sets of eyes watching your house. Your neighbors might also rely on you to keep an eye on their house, especially if they will be gone for an extended period.

Secure Your Doors

When first moving into a new home, one of the best and first things to do is make sure that the doors are secure. If someone has lived in the house previously, we recommend changing the door locks so strangers won't have a key to the house. Check to see that all the exterior doors have strong frames, protected hinges, and a small mail slot to prevent anyone from reaching through them. You can also add some additional security measures to the home's doors, including a deadbolt, smart locks, or a video doorbell. These will allow you to monitor and make sure your home is secure no matter where you are.

Lock Your Windows

Make sure that the windows of the new home are working correctly. At a minimum, their latches should be able to close because flimsy latches won't be able to stop a break-in. Windows can be reinforced using a window security film that holds the glass together if someone ever shatters it. Window or glass break sensors or windows that don't open beyond six inches can also be installed.

Add Lighting

Well-placed lights appropriately installed can sometimes be enough to discourage burglars, who typically work under cover of darkness. Homeowners can install motion-activated lights that switch on when someone walks near the light. Make sure to put the lights on timers when going on vacation or going away for an extended time, as it will give the impression that someone is still in the home.

Lock Up The Garage

Burglars know how easy it is to get into a home with a roll-up garage door, so make sure that the garage door stays locked at all times and consider covering the garage windows so that no one can see what belongings you have in the garage. You can also secure the garage door with some extra locks or install a smart garage door opener.

Lockdown Your Wi-Fi Network

While convenient, wireless networking isn't that secure. Your wireless network could act as an open invitation to take your personal and financial information. Make sure to secure the network using Wi-Fi-protected access or WPA2 encryption. You can also rename and hide your network, use a firewall, or install antivirus and anti-malware software. Similar to creating an online account, make sure to use a strong password to prevent being hacked.

Install A Home Security System

To get the most protection possible for your home, we recommend installing a home security system. This could be a DIY system or a top-of-the-line smart security system. Either way, it is up to the homeowner to decide what features and protection they would like the security system to offer.

Eliminate Hiding Places

Although trees and shrubs add curb appeal to the home, they are also the perfect hiding location for burglars. You should trim trees and plants close to your home before burglars can use them for easy cover. We recommend getting smaller flowers instead of bushes, and if any trees are near windows, we recommend removing them or reinforcing those windows with some extra security. Make sure any gates, sheds, and other outdoor buildings are all locked. Don't tempt thieves by leaving expensive items on display in the yard.

Get A Safe

In the unfortunate event someone does get inside the home, an in-home safe can prevent them from taking valuables or any important documents, such as passports, birth certificates, or bank statements. When deciding on which safe to purchase, make sure to get one that is fire-resistant, waterproof, and heavy enough that a thief wouldn't be able to walk away with all your valuables.