Home Security Tips and Planning

Planning home protection can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. In fact, there’s expert advice out there, and we’ve gathered some here for you!. 

We chatted to three different professionals for home security advice, about some of the fundamentals of planning to protect your home.  We’ll start on the outside of your property…

In modern home security, the protection begins on the outside of the home. And sensor lights are a popular option, recommended by those in the know. 

“One of the most effective deterrents to secure the outside of your property are sensor lights which activate when someone enters the area,” says Martin Crothers, director of Crothers Security Ltd. 

“A lot of modern home alarm systems allow for the addition of wireless alarm devices, so these can be fitted to a shed, within a reasonable distance. A decent quality padlock and hasp or pad-bolt is also worth using, but make sure to match the quality/resistance of the padlock & hasp with the quality and resistance of the door.”

Simon Craig, sales director in Network Security, also recommends motion sensor lighting, specifically, “installing lights around sheds, containers, and other peripheral areas [to] deter intruders”. 

Additionally, Simon suggests security cameras for the outside, or outdoor CCTV, and adds that “placing cameras around vulnerable spots like sheds and driveways allows monitoring from inside the home or remotely.”

“Smart doorbells provide an extra layer of surveillance at entrances and can alert homeowners to any suspicious activity,” he adds.

Peter O’Connor, MD of Securigard Alarms, praises outdoor security systems as a deterrent: “Typical alarm systems detect intruders, but it's too late at this stage,” he says. “Outdoor detection systems prevent theft, and they can be added for under €200.”

“The only way to protect outdoor vehicles, sheds, bike sheds etc, is with outdoor beams. Outdoor detection systems can differentiate between a human and animal. Wildlife and pets do not activate our outdoor detection system.” 

“Once a shed is opened the valuable contents will be taken even if an alarm activates. It takes seconds to remove an electric bike. It will take you minutes to wake, come downstairs, read the keypad to see where the intrusion has occurred, find the key to back door and go out into the garden.

“The alarm must activate as the burglar approaches the shed. If the burglar ignores the shed and heads for the back doors or windows, the alarm will activate both internally and externally when the intruder is twenty, thirty, or forty feet from the house.”  

“The budget very much depends on the risk profile and affordability,” says Martin, “but also about the sense of vulnerability. Your security spend should be buying you peace of mind.”

Simon adds that the budget for home security systems can vary based on needs: “Monitored Security Systems can range from €99 to €1,000, with additional monthly monitoring fees of €25-€50,” he says. “Decent quality CCTV systems start around €300 and can go upwards depending on the number of cameras and features.” 

“Monitored Smart Security Systems, including wireless alarms and home automation integration, might range from €200-€2,000 depending on complexity. Households should budget between €200 and €2,000, depending on the desired level of security, plus monitoring & maintenance fees.”  

Not every home security solution is high-tech and expensive. 

“Sometimes the lower cost items provide the best return on investment,” Martin says. “Things like window locks, higher security cylinders and a robust padlock on the side gate and shed provide the first and best line of defence. The investment in an alarm or camera system should be made after the basics are done.”

“For households on a budget,” Simon says, “affordable security solutions include: Smart Door Locks: These can be controlled via mobile apps. Monitored Home Alarms provide security and peace of mind when you are at home or away from the home.” 

Taking the time to investigate and plan a home protection system is worthwhile.  And while you can’t 100% prevent any potential breach, you can help your chances with the right system in place. 

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