Today we share this great guest blog from Kevin Carloni of Fort Locks in Hertfordshire. With 20+ years’ experience in the locksmith trade there isn’t much Kevin doesn’t know about security in our homes so have a look at his top 10 tips below and keep these in mind when selling your home.
Take it away Kevin!
Keeping our homes safe is of the utmost importance to us all, but what extra measures should we take when selling a home? We have put together our top 10 security tips to help you.
1. Always use an estate agent to conduct viewings
Never let people into your house without an appointment, even if they claim to have spoken to your agent. Ensuring that your estate agent shows buyers around not only protects your personal security but that of your home also.
2. Remove or lock up your valuables
You may wish to consider either removing your small, valuable items or locking them in a safe. Safes are very easy to install and come in different sizes and types according to your needs. You may be able to take the safe with you to your next property or wish to leave it as an added-value item in the home you are selling.
3. Intruder alarms
Installing an intruder alarm system in the home you are selling will increase its attractiveness to buyers. If your home should be vacant at any time during the sale, having an alarm system in place is a wise precaution. If there is an intruder alarm fitted at the property you are moving into, be sure to change the code and notify the alarm company of your change of details.
4. Assess your door and window locks
Make sure that these are in full working order and are of the best type possible for the type of doors and windows your property has. A prospective buyer will be reassured to see a home that can be easily secured.
5. Consider security lighting
This is another valuable deterrent and will also increase your property’s saleabilty. If your property is vacant at any time, remember to check that the system is working properly on a regular basis.
6. Check your garden and boundaries
Ensure that access is blocked to intruders as much as possible by maintaining your fence or boundary area. Make sure your garden is tidy and any ladders or equipment are locked away.
7. Upgrade your existing security measures
You may wish to consider adding door chains or spyholes to your front door, or upgrading your old window locks. A locksmith will be able to advise you on the best security measures available.
8. CCTV
This can add to the value and desirability of your home as well as enhance security and protection if your home becomes empty during the sale. Ensure that it is serviced and maintained on a regular basis.
9. Visit a vacant home regularly
There is a chance that your property may be vacant at some stage of the sale process, and should this be the case make sure that you, or a trusted friend or neighbour, visit the property regularly. This will ensure that any post is collected and not seen to be building up, and gives an opportunity to check that the property is safe and secure.
10. Change the locks on your new property
This is a sensible precaution to take when you move into your new property. This ensures that only you and people chosen by you now have a key. This prevents any previous owners, tenants or spare key holders from being able to access your new home.