Your home is more than bricks and mortar. It’s where you sleep, where your kids play, where your life happens. And while the UK remains one of the safer countries to live in, domestic burglary and home-related crime are still very real threats—especially as criminals become more opportunistic and tech-savvy.
The good news? You don’t need to spend a fortune to make your home far less appealing to burglars. Here’s what actually works in 2025.
1. Secure the Obvious Stuff (Properly)
Most burglars still get in the old-fashioned way—through a door or window that’s been left unlocked or is easy to force open.
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Always lock up, even if you’re just popping out for 10 minutes.
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Fit anti-snap locks on uPVC doors—this is a common weak point burglars exploit.
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Make sure windows, especially on the ground floor, have working locks and are closed when you’re out.
2. Make Your Home Look Lived-In
Empty-looking homes are easy targets, especially during school holidays or weekends away.
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Use timer switches to turn lights and lamps on in the evening.
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Leave a radio on, or simulate noise using smart plugs.
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Don’t advertise your absence on social media—wait until you’re home to post holiday photos.
3. Light Up the Outside
Dark driveways and side entrances make it easier for someone to approach unnoticed.
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Install motion-sensor lights by entrances, garages, and alleyways.
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Consider solar-powered options if wiring is a hassle.
4. CCTV and Smart Cameras
Home security tech has come a long way—and prices have dropped. Even a basic doorbell camera can be a deterrent.
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Choose smart cameras that send alerts to your phone.
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Make sure signs are visible (CCTV signage can be a legal requirement and a deterrent).
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Store footage securely—cloud backups are harder to tamper with than SD cards.
5. Don’t Hand Them the Tools
Burglars will use whatever’s at hand—ladders, bins, even tools left in the garden.
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Lock away tools and ladders after use.
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Keep gates locked, and store bins away from fences or walls they could be climbed on.
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Trim hedges to keep sight lines clear from the road—overgrown greenery gives burglars cover.
6. Get to Know Your Neighbours
One of the simplest deterrents? Eyes on the street. A trusted neighbour can be your best security system.
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Let them know if you’re away.
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Ask them to collect post, move bins, or just keep an eye out.
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Consider joining or starting a local Neighbourhood Watch group.
Final Word
No home can ever be 100% burglar-proof. But the goal is to make your home more secure than the next. Burglars tend to take the path of least resistance. A few smart steps—most of which cost little or nothing—can make all the difference.
Stay alert, stay smart, and protect what matters.