Security – an important consideration when looking for a new home

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, says Fidelity ADT district manager, Ivan Govender.

1. 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 South African Police Services 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,” says Govender. 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.”

READ ALSO: Top security tips for homeowners over the festive season

2. A layered approach to assess security

Govender recommends taking a layered approach – working from the outside in – to evaluate what measures are in place. From the boundary, make sure there is nothing that could help a burglar easily get into the property; for example a bin they could climb onto and use to get over the wall. Also trim back any low-hanging tree branches which could be used to gain entry.

“Looking at the exterior of the property, that is 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 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. Pay attention to the condition of burglar bars that may be attached on the inside of windows.

3. 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 subscribe to. Also find out 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 home owners 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 quickly and easily. When this is done, be sure to test the system 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,” says Govender. “Deadbolts are ideal for outside and garage doors.”

READ ALSO: 10 security tips when selling your home

4. 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,” says Govender.

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.”