Looking for a new home can be very exciting, but with so many things to consider, it isn’t unexpected that one or two things can be overlooked.
Security is very important to keep in mind – from the safety of the neighbourhood to how well-protected the property you are interested in is.
There are a couple of basic rules to follow when it comes to considering the security of a new neighbourhood and home, said Fidelity ADT managing executive Stuart Clarkson.
- Get to know the neighbourhood:
Do some research about your prospective new suburb. A local estate agent should be able to offer some insights into crime trends and its overall safety. The SAPS website is also a good source of information about crime statistics.
“Look out for signs of vandalism in the area as this could be a red flag,” said Clarkson.
Is there a neighbourhood watch or community security scheme, and are there regular security patrols?
No neighbourhood will ever be completely crime-free, but it is good to have an idea of what the situation is like on the ground.”
- A layered approach to assess security:
Clarkson recommended taking a layered approach – working from the outside, in – to evaluate what measures are in place.
From the boundary, make sure that there is nothing that could help a burglar easily get into the property; for example a bin that they could climb onto and over the wall.
Also trim back any low-hanging tree branches that could be used to gain entry.
Looking at the exterior of the property – the garden and backyard – keep an eye out for anything could be used as a weapon, or to gain entry to the home.
Also be sure to check hinges and locks of gates and doors to ensure that they are not rusted and cannot be easily forced or broken.
Then head indoors and do a similar check.
Look specifically at the state and quality of hinges and locks on windows, gates and doors.
Also pay attention to the condition of burglar bars that may be attached on the inside of windows.
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- Check out the security system:
If the property you are interested in already has an alarm system installed, find out from the agent or current occupants if it is still linked to a private security company and, if so, which services they do or do not subscribe to.
Also find out from them if there are any issues with any of the components; when last the system was tested and what the outcome of that test was.
In some instances the homeowners may choose to disconnect the system and cancel their security subscription before they move out.
If that is the case, contact your preferred provider who should be able to reconnect it quite quickly and easily.
When this is done, be sure that the system is tested and that all hardware is working properly before the technician leaves.
“You should also ask the previous residents or the agent to return all keys to doors and locks on the property.
“If you have any doubt that you are not the only one with keys and access, change the locks for peace of mind,” said Clarkson.
“Deadbolts are ideal for outside and garage doors.”
- Meet the neighbours:
Once you’ve made the decision to buy or rent the home and you’re all settled in, make some time to head next door to meet the neighbours.
They are often the first to notice when something is wrong or out of place, and in many cases the first responders in an emergency.
“If you’re comfortable doing so, exchange contact details with your neighbours and agree to keep an eye on each other’s homes,” said Clarkson.
In closing, he also suggests finding out if your neighbourhood has a community watch.
“If you aren’t able to join in on active patrols, there are other ways in which community members can support their local neighbourhood watch.
“When residents, police and private security companies work together to curb crime, we do see positive results,” he said.
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