This is not be a decision to take lightly.You should really think about which safety needs of your home.

Always change the locks changed when you buy a new home. You don’t know how many copies of the keys the previous owners made and handed out previously. Do the same thing if you misplace a key.

Always change the locks after moving into a new home. There is no way to ascertain how many keys the previous owner handed out. Contact a locksmith to make sure that only you have access to your home. If you lose keys, make sure to do this, too.

Home security systems do more than sounding an alarm that goes off during a break in. Most systems can be programmed to alert when anyone enters the home. This is important if you have small children that are able to open doors.

Comparison shopping is essential when you are ready to buy a security system for the home. Make sure to obtain quotes from a minimum of three companies before you decide on which one you think is the best option.

Beware giving keys to your maid unless the service has your absolute trust. If you plan to give them a key so they can clean in your home while you are away, ensure they are reputable and honest. Make sure you verify all references. Contact your local Better Business Bureau to find out more about the reputation of the cleaner you hired.

Ask friends for any advice they have prior to purchasing a security system or service. You can benefit from people who have gone before you by paying attention to their recommendations and warnings. Ask around so that you can have the advice that you need to make a sound decision.

See what your local police offer when it comes to home protection programs. They may offer neighborhood watch programs, home inspections, and other guidance about securing your house. Call and see what programs they offer.

Speak with the police in your town regarding the home security programs they have. Some police departments offer things like code numbers to help find your valuables should they get stolen. Call the local police department and inquire as to what programs they offer.

Don’t hide an extra key under floor mats or in planters. These seem like great places criminals will look when they try to enter your home. Thieves are aware of all these hiding spots.

Make sure that none of your valuables can be seen from outside the home. Large windows let in light and give you a great view outside, but they also allow outsiders to see inside your living space.

Keep your car in your garage if you have one. A car kept locked in a garage is much less likely to be stolen or damaged. It will also keep any intruders from knowing when you’re home.

Having these boxes around for a while will let thieves know the type of what is inside your house.

If you are entering a house that has already been occupied, then you should immediately change the locks. The previous owners or tenants might have a key.You can purchase locks and install them yourself to ascertain that no one else has a key.

Meet with representatives from the security company you are considering to determine if they are trustworthy. If the installers make you feel uncomfortable, heed your feelings. If you don’t feel comfortable, go with someone else. Security is supposed to give you peace of mind after all!

Intruders could disguise themselves to inspect your house. This is dangerous for your family and possessions. Be careful if you want to avoid any potential dangers.

Use the Internet to find a new home security company.After reading about these services, choose your top three for consultations.

Lock your home at all times to err on the side of caution. You may be surprised to know that many burglars simply turn the doorknob and walk right in. A thief can steal lots of stuff in a little amount of time.

Ask about the history of any home security company how long they have been in business before you sign up for service. A company with a long history has proven that their service is reliable. Knowing that you are dealing with a shady company gives you calm when making this important decision.

Get a custom-designed plan that fits your home security company do a site visit in your needs.

When installing your home security system, make sure to hide the wires. An intruder can cut the wires if he can find them. Never make things easy for them. Ask the person installing it to bury the wires or hide them inside the walls. That will make you safer.

Wireless security systems are becoming more popular. Wired systems may be cheaper, but they often involve intrusive rewiring of your home, and can become faulty during a power outage.

Ask about the various contract lengths offered by a home security company may offer. There are benefits and cons to each. A contract that is longer might offer lower monthly payments, but you could be stuck with those monthly costs if you sell your home or decide to discontinue services. Shorter contracts mean more freedom at a higher costs.

Your flashlights should always be equipped with good, working batteries. They give you and your family the opportunity to move around should the electricity go out. Teach everyone in your home to use the flashlights so all family members can see and help each other.

Do not use spring latches.These locks are very easy to pick with something as common as a couple of minutes. Intruders can pick these locks by wedging a card in between the latch and the door.Add a deadbolt to existing spring latch locks.

Ask the company if they offer options to lease or buy your security equipment. Buying your equipment may cost more initially, but one time costs might lower or eliminate some monthly fees that add up over time. Leasing is a good way to avoid the initial expense, but it comes with strings attached through contracts or continuing fees and charges. Look into both of these to see what works for your personal circumstances.

If the home you are moving into is not brand new, you should change the locks on all the doors. Although it’s normal for owners / tenants to surrender their keys when they leave, there’s no way of knowing who else might have copies. If you own, you can have the locks replaced and only you will have had the key.

Anyone could get your date of birth from Facebook and could have access into your driver’s licence.

A home alarm might be a good investment if police are notified when it sounds.The only way to ensure this is to use a centrally monitored alarm so that the police always show up if it is triggered. You can’t rely on your neighbors.

Always check references before letting anyone work on your home. Run a criminal background check on them, as well. Anyone you bring into your home to work could be your worst enemy.

Ideally, you’ve got a few new ideas to consider about making your home safer after reading this article. Don’t make an uninformed decision about home security. You want to make sure that you adequately protect you and your family. Use these tips to help you move on in your home security journey.