Whether you’re a first-time buyer or moving into a larger property, there is nothing more exciting than becoming a new homeowner. However, property ownership comes with no shortage of new responsibilities, from making sure that bills are paid on time to completing regular repairs and maintenance around the property.
Making sure that the property’s security is up to scratch is probably one of the most important tasks for new homeowners. But because most new homeowners are focusing on obvious security measures like door locks, CCTV, and alarms, the importance of securing your property’s perimeter can often be overlooked.
We’ve teamed up with security professionals at Locks & Handles to share key tips for new homeowners to safeguard their homes and loved ones.
The Importance of Perimeter Checks for New Homeowners
Perimeter inspections are vital for new homeowners because fences and gates play a crucial role in protecting your property, so taking the time to check their condition is well worth the effort. Fencing keeps out unwanted visitors and deters the threat of potential intruders, helping to reduce the risks of theft, vandalism, trespassing, etc.
By regularly checking your fences and gates, you can ensure they remain your home’s first line of defence. Experienced criminals can easily identify potential weak spots around our property’s perimeter and use them to gain access.
For example, if your garden gate lock is flimsy or there are rusty hinges, then an intruder can easily force the gate open and enter your property. Low or sagging fencing is another common weak spot that burglars might use to climb over and gain easier access to your property.
These common security risks can often go unnoticed, highlighting the importance of regular perimeter checks to minimise possible threats to your home and family!
Inspect Your Gate Closely
One of the first steps of your perimeter check should be inspecting your gate. Due to constant outdoor exposure and frequent use, garden gates are susceptible to a lot of wear and tear over time that can cause major structural damage, reducing their overall strength and security. Given the countless list of chores that come with moving into a new home, it’s understandable that you might forget to check the gates, causing potential security risks to go undetected.
So, it’s a good idea for you to inspect gates for obvious signs of damage when you move into a new home. Keep a close eye out for the likes of rusty hinges, loose posts, and flimsy locks, which could indicate that your gate is compromised, making it easier for intruders to gain access to the property.
Older outdoor gate locks are especially vulnerable because they’ve seen years of use and constant exposure to the less-than-stellar British weather. This makes them an obvious target for intruders, so be sure to take a close look at older gate locks to ensure they’re in suitable condition.
What to Fix First?
If you notice any damage when inspecting gates and fencing, don’t wait around for the problems to get worse. It’s strongly recommended that you address any problems you find with your back gate lock, as these are often the first area that intruders target on our property’s perimeter.
In fact, even if your gate lock only has minor wear and tear, we suggest upgrading to a new weatherproof lock for an instant security upgrade. Constant exposure to the weather will cause an outdoor gate lock to fail eventually, so a weatherproof upgrade is an excellent investment for any new homeowner.
If your gate has wobbly posts, it’s a good idea to reinforce them with a concrete collar, metal brace, or ground post stabiliser to restore their structural strength. If the damage is too extensive, a replacement may be the only alternative.
Quick Wins Without Complex Installations
Boosting perimeter security around your property doesn’t require complex installations and costly replacements. Simple fixes like switching to weatherproof gate locks can greatly improve security and deter unauthorised entry to your home for complete peace of mind.
Most people can install a new weatherproof, corrosion-resistant gate lock for an immediate upgrade to their property’s perimeter security. Look for locks made from outdoor-rated materials like stainless steel, zinc alloy, and solid brass, while additional features like power-coated finishes, rubber covers, and sealed keyways can improve weather resistance and durability even more.
These robust gate locks are strong, durable, and built to withstand many years of even the harshest British weather!
Final Thoughts
Keep an eye out for rusted hinges, wobbly posts, and flimsy locks, which could be undermining gate security.
Be sure to immediately address any damage you might find and consider upgrading to a durable, weatherproof gate lock to keep your new home safe and secure long into the future.
