Homeowners can take steps to secure their homes and prevent break-ins. Inspectors can advise clients on basic strategies to make their homes less appealing to burglars.

According to InterNACHI, theft accounts for over three-quarters of reported crimes in the US. In 2005, law enforcement reported over 2 million burglaries. Survey results show that burglars typically enter homes through the following entry points: 81% through the first floor 34% through the front door 23% through a first-floor window 22% through the back door 9% through the garage 4% through the basement 4% through an unlocked entrance 2% through a storage area 2% through the second floor

In Canada, the burglary rate is seven times higher than in Norway and slightly higher than in the US (877 per 100,000 people) but lower than in Australia (2,275 per 100,000 people).

Exterior Doors:

• Doors should be made of solid steel or solid-core wood
• Doors should be free from signs of rot, cracks, and warping
• Doors should have quality deadbolt locks and a cage or box for mail slots
• Glass panes should be placed away from the lock and spare keys should not be kept in obvious locations
• A peephole can be installed and bump-resistant locks can be considered

Pet Doors:

• Pet doors should be avoided or kept as small as possible and far from the lock
• Electronic pet doors that only open with the pet’s collar are available

Sliding Glass Doors:

• Should have locks on the top and bottom
• Should not be able to be lifted from the frame
• A cut-off broom handle can be placed in the track to prevent opening

Illumination:

• Lights should be placed on all four sides of the house
• Some lights should be left on when the home is unoccupied and motion-sensor lights can be installed

Windows:

• Should be made of strong glass and be in good condition
• Can be secured with bars, grilles, grates, or wire screening
• Windows should not be obstructed by landscaping or structures and lighting can be installed around them

Landscaping and Yard:

• Shrubs and trees should not block the view of entrances
• Fences can deter burglars but should not be too obstructive
• A loud radio, a car parked in the driveway, regularly cut lawn can make the home seem occupied

Other tips:

• Dogs can be an effective burglar deterrent
• Timers can be used for lights and radios to make the home appear occupied.