Evaluating the Strength of Your Miami Home’s Perimeter – What to Look Out For

• Unsecured doors and windows

Unlocked or poorly secured doors and windows are one of the easiest ways for intruders to gain access to your home. It’s these points of entry they will often try first before looking at other options.

• Forced entry

Should a door or window be secured, forced entry is generally the next port of call for intruders. Hammers, crowbars, and screwdrivers are often used to force a door or window open. Not only does this mean intruders gain access to your home, but you will be left with property damage too.

• Garage entry

Very often, a garage is one of the last things we remember to secure, which is why it’s a prime entry target for criminals in Miami. Most garages are also linked to homes, giving someone direct access. What’s more, an intruder gaining access to your garage also puts your vehicles at risk.

• Alarm manipulation

Intruders with technical knowledge may attempt to tamper with your alarm system to gain access to your home. This is also one of the easiest ways for them to walk right in, which is why monitored systems are best. Fortunately, most of today’s alarm systems are advanced, so this isn’t a common occurrence, but it’s not impossible.

• Unattended homes

If you regularly spend time between multiple locations or you run an Airbnb, criminals may be able to pick up on this. Automatic light timers can make this less obvious. Ensuring your mail is collected by a family member or neighbor is also important.

• Social media monitoring

Having public social media accounts may get you more followers and likes, but it’s also a way for criminals to get a better idea of your plans. Don’t promote any travel plans too openly because you may be putting your home and belongings at risk. It’s also best not to advertise any vacant properties you may be trying to lease or sell. Rather stick to professional real estate sites and ensure the photos are of a furnished home.

• Impersonation

Another tactic that’s seen quite regularly is intruders posing as delivery staff or local service providers. There have even been some instances where criminals pose as neighbors. Always verify the identity of anyone who comes onto your property before you consider opening the door. You may even want to contact their company just to be sure.

• Distraction

Intruders will sometimes fake an emergency or ask for assistance to gain access to your home. Someone coming to your door saying there has been a car accident is a common distraction. Unfortunately, even though we want to help others, we need to be extra careful. Once you are distracted, a second intruder will enter your home with you being none the wiser. Rather call the authorities whenever possible instead of trying to deal with it yourself.

• Security assessment

Believe it or not, people posing as security professionals have also been known to gain regular access to Miami homes. They will often approach you about a free home security assessment to get inside. From there, a simple robbery can turn into a home invasion. Rather call the head office and arrange an assessment for another time. This ensures you can verify that this offer is, in fact, true.

• Fencing:

Start by checking the condition of any fencing, walls, or other barriers surrounding your home. You want them to be sturdy and in good condition. Any obvious damage, including broken parts, rot, or rust, should be addressed as soon as possible, as this is one of the first things that will keep potential intruders out.

• Gates:

Next, ensure that your gates are functioning as they should. Do all of the locks and latches work correctly? You can also consider adding additional security measures, such as smart locks or padlocks, to increase security. More on this later.

• Landscaping:

You may love your garden, but vegetation can be a security risk. Trim any bushes or trees that may serve as a hiding spot for criminals. Pay attention to the plants surrounding your windows, too, as this can hinder your visibility. Some Miami homeowners even plant thorny plants near windows and fences as a deterrent. This can be an affordable way to prevent intruders from getting too close to your home.

• Lighting:

Adequate lighting is essential when it comes to protecting the perimeter of your home. You don’t even need to leave them on all night, either; motion-activated lights will save on energy costs while keeping your home secure. Don’t forget to make sure that your home’s entry points are well-lit, too.

• Security Cameras:

If you already have some security cameras installed, take the time to ensure they’re working correctly. Your cameras should always be installed in strategic locations and cover your driveway and other vulnerable points over and above your entrances. If possible, opt for security cameras that have remote monitoring capabilities. This allows you to keep a closer eye on your home from wherever you are.

• Windows:

Your windows also need to be evaluated during a perimeter assessment. Ensure they can all lock, especially the windows on the ground floor of your home. You may also want to consider adding some security film or reinforced glass for added protection, making your windows harder to break. Lastly, make sure you have blinds or curtains, as this will prevent potential intruders from being able to see into your home.

• Doors:

The doors of your home are another key element to analyze. Are your exterior doors still in good condition, and do the locks work correctly? If not, you can consider reinforcing your door frames or upgrading to more solid doors altogether. Smart locks and deadbolts are also ideal for enhancing the security of your doors.

• Alarms:

An alarm is an excellent deterrent and, when linked to a security company, can greatly reduce the risk of personal loss. You may even want to add sensors to your windows and not just your doors. As an extra step, make a point of displaying the fact that you have an alarm by placing a sign or sticker at your door or on your exterior wall.

• Mailbox:

An accumulation of mail is a clear indicator that someone hasn’t been home for a while. Make sure that you’re not only collecting your mail regularly but that your mailbox is secure. This will prevent important documents, letters, and smaller packages from being stolen. You may also want to consider how you receive packages. Can they be left in a secure place until you get home?

• Property Boundaries:

Last, but not least, you want to evaluate your property boundaries. Are they clearly marked? Basically, you want to make sure there aren’t any hidden entry points along your perimeter that could make it easy for criminals to gain access to your Miami property. It’s also important to make sure you aren’t encroaching on your neighbor’s property when you make security adjustments.

• Security cameras

Smart cameras with motion detection and mobile alerts are one of the most popular types of security cameras for the outside of homes. Arlo Pro, Nest Cam, and the Ring Stick Up Cam are some top options to consider.

• Smart doorbells

Ring and Nest Hello are some of the best smart doorbells. They also have motion detection and mobile alerts, ensuring you know who’s at your door. It also makes it easier to accept deliveries.

• Smart locks

Smart locks are much more secure than traditional locks and can’t be tampered with as easily. Keyless entry systems also mean you don’t need to worry about lost or stolen keys. And, because most systems offer mobile access, any deliveries can be left safely inside your home.

• Motion-activated lighting

Even though there are numerous options on the market, the Mr Beams Wireless LED Spotlight and Sengled Smart LED Floodlight are two popular choices. These lights will illuminate key areas around your home without wasting energy.

• Smart outdoor plugs

If you do spend a fair amount of time away from home or run an Airbnb, smart outdoor plugs will give you greater control of the lighting outside your home. The Kasa Smart Outdoor Plug and the iDevices Outdoor Switch are two options.

• Landscape lighting

Landscape lighting works best along pathways, outside of entrances, and in any darker areas of your property. If energy efficiency is important to you, opt for solar-powered lights.

• Window security film

If you want to give your windows some added protection by reinforcing them, brands such as 3M Safety and Security and Gila Heat Control Platinum can help.

• Fencing

If you do decide to upgrade your fencing, opt for anything with anti-climb features – steel and aluminum are the ideal materials. Installing security spikes or barbed wire where possible can also help keep unwanted visitors out.

• Door reinforcement kits

Even though smart locks will enhance the security of your doors, a door reinforcement kit can add an extra layer of protection. StrikeMaster II Pro or the Prime-Line U 10827 Door Reinforcement Lock are two options you can consider.

• Drop boxes

If you often receive important mail and smaller packages, consider installing a secure drop box. These boxes usually work with a key, but digital options are also available. Consider a larger drop box if you don’t often have the opportunity to pick up your mail to make it less obvious that you’re not at home.

• Security signage

This may seem like a minor upgrade to your security but it can make a difference. Clearly displaying a sticker or sign that indicates you have an alarm system that’s linked to a local security company can do a lot to deter potential intruders.