19 Best Home Security Tips from Lockforce UK | Expert Locksmith Advice

A Personal Message from Sean Taylor, Managing Director of Lockforce UK

Maybe you’re like me?

I don’t worry about much but one of my biggest fears has always been the safety and security of my family (and, to a lesser extent, our belongings).

Like many homeowners and parents, I think of my family whenever I’m away. Sadly, I’ve been unlucky enough to experience a break-in twice well, one and a half times despite living in what most people would call a safe, well-off neighbourhood.

Crime data once suggested we were “low risk,” but statistics mean little when you’re stood on the stairs at 2am, hearing noises from downstairs… or when you feel cold air coming through a door that’s been forced open. Those moments stay with you.

That’s why I want to share my best home security tips not to sell you locks or alarms, but to help you protect your home and your loved ones with simple, effective advice you can use right now.

Most of this is common sense, but burglaries often happen when we make a careless mistake, get complacent, or think “it’ll never happen to me.”

When Do Most Burglaries Happen?

It’s a myth that most burglaries happen in the middle of the night.
In reality, the majority occur in broad daylight — particularly mid-morning to early afternoon when homes are empty.

Other break-ins happen in early evening hours, when it’s dark outside and homes are still empty, with no lights on.

Burglars are opportunists. They look for the easy targets:

Unlocked doors or open windows
Dimly lit or overgrown entrances
Signs that nobody’s home

The good news is that you can make your home far less appealing to a potential burglar with a few straightforward changes.

10 Simple Home Security Tips Every Homeowner Should Follow

Always lock doors and windows properly – Don’t just pull them shut. Turn the key, lift the handle, and make sure bolts are engaged.
Keep keys out of sight and reach – Don’t leave them on hall tables or near letterboxes. Burglars use hooks and rods. (See Tip #13 for a fix.)
Close curtains and blinds at night – Avoid giving people a view of your valuables.
Use timers on lights or radios – Helps make your home look lived-in when you’re out.
Trim hedges and bushes – Visible doors and windows discourage burglars.
Be smart on social media – Wait until you return home to post about holidays or nights away.
Mark your valuables – Use a UV pen or marking kit with your postcode to help police identify stolen property.
Lock away ladders and tools – Don’t make it easy for burglars to access upper floors.
Avoid hiding spare keys outdoors – If necessary, install a police-approved key safe (we recommend The Key Safe Company).
Get to know your neighbours – A friendly, observant neighbour is one of the best deterrents you can have.

9 Expert Locksmith Tips Most Homeowners Overlook

Reinforce the door frame – Use longer screws in strike plates and hinges. The frame is often the weakest point.
Use more than one lock – A mortice lock plus a night latch provides double protection and slows intruders down.
Fit a letterbox cage or restrictor – Prevents burglars reaching through with hooks or rods.
Secure patio and sliding doors – Use anti-lift devices or security bars to prevent forced entry.
Lock and bolt side gates – Burglars often target the back of properties where they can’t be seen.
Don’t overlook small windows – Cloakroom or bathroom windows can be easy access points if left open.
Maintain your locks – Replace stiff, worn, or faulty locks early. They’re easier to force and may fail in an emergency.
Watch for “door testing” – Some burglars try front doors during the day to see if anyone forgot to lock up.
Secure sheds and garages – These are prime targets for tools and bikes. Fit strong padlocks and motion-sensor lights.

The Layered Approach to Home Security

No single lock, alarm, or camera can fully protect your home. Real security comes from layers of protection — each one adding time, noise, and difficulty for an intruder.

The harder your home is to access, the more likely a burglar is to give up and move on.

At Lockforce UK, we call this “the layered defence method” — combining simple daily habits with professional-grade security upgrades to make your home a far less appealing target.

Final Thoughts from Lockforce UK

I’ve been on both sides of this — as a locksmith helping families after break-ins, and as a homeowner who’s experienced it first-hand.

I know how important it is to feel safe in your own home.

These tips aren’t complicated, and they don’t require expensive equipment. They’re practical, proven, and they work.

Because at the end of the day, home security isn’t about fear — it’s about reassurance, confidence, and peace of mind knowing your family and home are safe.

Keeping You Safe,

Sean Taylor

Managing Director

Lockforce UK