10 simple steps to safeguard your property

Every 173 seconds, a home in England and Wales is burgled.
According to the latest police – recorded crime data, there were over 181,000 residential burglaries reported across the country in 2023/24 alone. That’s nearly 500 homes a day, a number that should give every homeowner pause for thought. Having worked on the front line of residential security for many years, protecting high-net-worth (HNW) and ultra-high-net-worth (UHNW) clients, I’ve seen first-hand how opportunistic and targeted crime can impact people’s lives. I’ve also been directly involved in deterring intrusions and stopping criminals in their tracks.

The good news? You don’t need to be a celebrity or CEO to make your home secure. There are highly effective steps you can take, right now, to reduce your risk.

What are today’s criminals looking for?
The majority of burglars are looking for quick, quiet, and low-risk entry points. That means homes left empty during the day, poor external lighting, valuables visible through windows, or outdated locks and alarm systems. While high-value homes may seem the obvious target, any property can be vulnerable, from city apartments to country cottages. Interestingly, over 70% of burglaries take place during the week, and only around a third happen in the evening. Why? Because weekdays are when most homes are unoccupied, residents are at work, children are at school, and the likelihood of confrontation is low. Evenings, while still a risk, are more likely to see someone at home, lights on, and general activity inside and outside. Weekends are busier too, which increases the risk for a would-be intruder.

Improving your home’s security: where to start
The first and most important step is to assess your home like a burglar would. Walk around your property during the day and again at night. Ask yourself:

Are there obvious points of entry?
Is anything valuable visible through windows?
Are the boundaries clear and secure?
Would I be seen if I approached the front, back or side door?

Vulnerabilities quickly become obvious. From there, focus on layering your security. No single solution is perfect – this starts with upgrading locks, improving external lighting, and ensuring alarms and CCTV are properly installed and monitored.

But don’t stop at physical defences. Digital awareness, community involvement, and having a family emergency plan in place are all part of a modern, well-rounded security strategy.

Working together: the power of community security
One of the most effective deterrents is a united community. Burglars are less likely to target neighbourhoods where residents are active, connected, and alert. I can honestly say, having worked with many community groups over the years, the power of community really does work. I’ve seen first-hand how shared information, quick communication, and local vigilance can prevent crimes before they even happen. Whether it’s a suspicious van in the area, an unfamiliar caller at the door, or someone lurking near driveways – neighbours who are connected can act faster than any camera or alarm.

If your area doesn’t have a Neighbourhood Watch scheme, consider setting one up.

Tech that works: a smart security upgrade
Modern home security doesn’t have to be complex or costly. From motion-activated lights to smart doorbells, technology is now more accessible than ever – but only when it’s used properly. Take something as simple as a video doorbell. Devices like Ring or Eufy allow you to see who’s at your door, speak to them remotely, and record movement – even when you’re not home. It’s a small step with a big impact, especially when paired with cameras, alarms, and lighting. The key is not just buying security gadgets – it’s choosing the right tools, installing them correctly, and making sure they’re actually doing their job.

FREE Home Security Audit
To support Business Connect readers in making their homes safer, we’re offering a free, no-obligation residential security audit. Our expert team will:

Assess your current physical and electronic security
Identify blind spots and vulnerabilities
Recommend practical, effective improvements
Help you create a personal or family emergency response plan
Advise on neighbourhood and community security options

Whether you live in a terraced house, a rural farmhouse, or a private estate, we’ll help you understand the risks and put smart, realistic measures in place to reduce them.

As part of this service, we’re also pleased to introduce Equipt Systems, our new dedicated division specialising in the professional installation of CCTV, alarms, and access control systems. This allows us to offer not just expert advice, but a complete end-to-end solution for your home security needs.

If you’re unsure where to start or want confidence that your existing setup is still fit for purpose, this is your opportunity to take the first step, risk-free.

10 simple steps to make your home more secure