3 Ways Your Locksmith Can Increase Your Older Home's Security

Buying an older home that has seen better days is a common entry point onto the housing ladder for many Americans. It's a great way to increase the equity in a home through remodeling and improvements, and it's also a great way to put your own stamp on the look and feel of the property.

As well as the major construction tasks and more minor aesthetic improvements you'll be planning, it's also important to think about the security of your new home. Here are three ways that a local locksmith, like those at Bob's Lock & Key, can help to increase your home's security and make you feel more secure.

1. Change the locks

Older homes come with an often lengthy history of occupants. This number may be even higher if the property has been a rental with a constant shifting of tenants. Over the years, this means that there are a lot of people who have had keys to your home's locks in their possession. Unfortunately, some of them may still be in the hands of people that shouldn't have them.

Changing all of the locks on your home's doors should be one of the first security tasks that you organize when you move in. This is a fairly quick, simple, and inexpensive task for a locksmith. It's a very small cost and inconvenience to ensure that no one will have easy to access to your home.

2. Add window locks

A surprising number of older homes don't have key-operated locks on the windows. When you consider that windows are one of the most common entry points for burglars, it's a wise idea to have them fitted by your locksmith as soon as possible after you move into your new home.

There are a number of different window locks available that will suit different window styles and materials. Your locksmith will be able to help you to choose a style that is most suitable for each window of your home. Although it's common to only install locks on ground floor windows, it's important to also install them on second-floor windows if there is access via a balcony or roof.

3. Secure your mailbox

If your older home comes with an older letterbox, then it's worth asking your locksmith's advice on how to secure it. With identity theft, identity fraud, and credit card fraud rife these days, protecting your mail from would-be thieves is another important part of home security.

Some older letterboxes may be secured by simply adding a sturdy padlock. Your locksmith may also be able to retrofit a barrel lock on some mailboxes. If not, you're probably best off investing in a new mailbox that is strong and has a good-quality, built-in lock.