The Most Common Home Security Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

Locking the door before going to bed or leaving the house, using motion-sensor lights, or even trusting that the dog acts as a natural alarm against intruders are some of the most common things we all do to feel safe. But when it comes to security in Essex (or in any other part of the UK, as a matter of fact), is that really enough?

Data shows that residential burglary remains a concern in certain areas of Essex, particularly in more densely populated towns like Basildon, Chelmsford, and Southend-on-Sea. While overall crime rates have fallen in recent years, opportunistic thefts and break-ins still happen, often when homes are left unoccupied.

There are around 650 burglaries every day in the UK, according to the latest figures from 2023. Only 4.3% of residential burglary offences actually led to a charge or summons, a figure that highlights just how rare it is for these crimes to result in someone being held accountable.

But if we’re all so careful about keeping our places secure, how is it that more than 239,000 burglary-related offences still happen every year? The answer lies in the common home security mistakes many of us still make without realising. Keep reading to learn more.

Why Your House Might Not Be as Secure as You Think

Most of us think we’re doing the right things to keep our homes safe, like locking the doors, setting the alarm, and maybe even installing a camera or two. But burglaries still happen. Often, it’s not because someone forgot to buy the latest smart security gadget. It’s because of small, everyday habits that make a big difference, such as:

1. Leaving doors unlocked (even for a few minutes)

It sounds basic, but it’s one of the biggest slip-ups. Popping to the shop or chatting to a neighbour for ‘just a second’ is often all the time an opportunistic thief needs. Always lock the door, even if you’re only stepping out briefly.

To make sure you don’t forget, try this Japanese trick: when you lock the door, point at the lock and say out loud, “Locked!” It might feel a little odd at first, but this simple habit helps your brain register that the door is secure. Plus, it turns a quick routine into a mindful moment, reducing those pesky doubts about whether you remembered to lock up.

2. Open windows in empty rooms

Especially during the warmer months, it’s tempting to leave windows open to let fresh air in. But if the room — or worse, the whole house — is empty, those open windows become an open invitation to burglars. It’s easy to forget windows, especially those upstairs or at the back of the house, but they can be just as vulnerable as the front door.

Make it a habit to do a quick walk-around before you leave or go to bed, checking every window and closing them properly. If you like fresh air at night, consider investing in window locks or security bars that let you keep windows slightly ajar but still secure.

3. No lights on at night when you’re away

A dark, silent house is a clear sign to anyone watching that no one’s home. Leaving your place completely unlit makes it an easy target. To avoid this, many people use timer switches or smart plugs that automatically turn lights on and off during the evening. This creates the impression that someone is moving about inside, which can be enough to deter would-be intruders.

4. Forgetting the back door

Most of us focus on locking the front door, but burglars often don’t bother with the obvious entrance. Instead, they look for easier targets like the back door, garage, or side gates. These entry points are just as vulnerable and just as important to protect.

Make sure your back door has a solid lock, preferably one that meets British security standards. Adding good outdoor lighting can also help deter anyone sneaking around. And don’t forget to double-check these doors every night before bed or whenever you leave the house.

5. Making valuables visible from the street

Leaving laptops, phones, keys, or even the boxes from expensive gadgets on show is like putting up a neon sign saying, “Come and take me!” Burglars often scout homes looking for easy targets, and if they can spot valuables through a window, it’s an open invitation.

That is why you should keep your valuables well out of sight. Stash them in drawers or cupboards when not in use. Also, consider closing curtains or blinds, especially in the evening when lights are on inside and everything becomes more visible from outside.

6. No visible deterrents

Anyone who plays poker knows that more important than actually having an advantage is looking like you have one. The same goes for home security. Burglars often avoid homes that seem well protected, even if some of the measures are just for show.

Fake cameras, alarm boxes, or just a simple ‘Beware of the dog’ sign can create the impression that your home is a tough target. Most intruders look for the easiest option, so giving off the right signals can be enough to make them think twice and move on.

7. Posting your holiday in real time

Let the one who’s never posted a countdown to their long-awaited holiday cast the first stone. Sharing that there are just ‘X’ days left before hitting the beaches in Spain might build excitement among your friends, but unfortunately, it has the same effect on burglars.

If your social media profile is public, avoid revealing that your house is empty and, therefore, vulnerable. While you’re enjoying cocktails at that all-inclusive hotel, someone could be tracking your movements online, planning to rob your home without you noticing.

Putting It Into Practice

Small habits can make a big difference when it comes to security. The key is to spot these common mistakes and take simple steps to fix them before they become a problem. Keeping a home safe doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive, just consistent.

What’s one easy change you can start with to make your home a little more secure today?