10 Red Flags That Will Make Your Home an Easy Target for Break-Ins

Ensuring your home is secure can be as simple as removing a few key red flags that burglars look for. Criminals scout out homes and look for signs that make them easy targets. If you’re not aware of these indicators, your home could be at risk. Below are some common red flags that burglars use to target homes and how you can eliminate them.

1. Dark, Unlit Homes at Night

When you’re away, a dark house is a clear indication that no one is home. Leaving your home dark at night signals to burglars that the coast is clear. “Burglars look for ‘occupancy cues,’ such as whether the lights are off all night,” says Rob Gabriele, a home security expert.¹

Solution: Install smart lighting that you can control remotely or set to timers that change randomly to make it look like someone is home. This adds a level of unpredictability that burglars want to avoid.²

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2. Empty Driveway or Stationary Cars

If your driveway is usually occupied by cars and suddenly remains empty for days, burglars may assume you’re away. On the flip side, leaving a car parked in the same spot for days can also be a giveaway that you’re out of town.³

Solution: Ask a neighbor or friend to park their car in your driveway occasionally or move your car around to create the appearance of activity.

3. Overflowing Mail or Packages

Piles of mail, newspapers, or packages outside your door are a surefire sign that no one is home to collect them. Burglars see these as telltale signs that the homeowners are away for an extended period.

Solution: Put a temporary hold on your mail and deliveries, or have a neighbor collect them for you. This prevents any visible signs that the home is unoccupied.

4. Unkempt Lawn or Overgrown Yard

If your yard usually looks well-maintained but becomes overgrown, burglars may take this as a sign that you’re away. A lawn that hasn’t been mowed in weeks is an easy signal for intruders.

Solution: Hire a lawn service to maintain your yard while you’re on vacation, or ask a neighbor to keep an eye on it. Maintaining curb appeal can help keep your home looking lived-in.

5. No Snow Removal in Winter

In snowy climates, an unplowed driveway or walkway after a snowstorm can be a major red flag. “Not clearing snow off your property for days is an obvious sign no one’s home,” says security expert Kim Wright.

Solution: Arrange for someone to plow your driveway and shovel your walkways. If possible, have them leave tracks and footprints to mimic normal activity.

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6. Curtains or Blinds Never Moving

If you always adjust your blinds or curtains but they suddenly remain in one position for days, it’s a sign to burglars that no one’s home. Consistency is key for criminals when they’re watching a property.

Solution: Use smart blinds that can open and close on a schedule, or ask a neighbor to adjust them periodically. Incorporating movement into your home’s routine makes it look occupied.

7. Trash and Recycling Left Out

If you miss trash day while you’re on vacation, it’s an easy sign for burglars that you’re away. Conversely, if you leave your bins out for too long, it also signals that no one is home to bring them back in.

Solution: Ask a neighbor to take out and bring in your trash bins while you’re away. This small action helps maintain the appearance of a lived-in home.

8. Sharing Vacation Plans on Social Media

Broadcasting your vacation on social media is like sending burglars an invitation. “Posting vacation photos and trip details can alert thieves that your home is empty,” says Kim Wright.

Solution: Wait until you return home to post about your vacation. This way, you can still share your experiences without risking your home’s safety.

9. Visible Valuables

Leaving expensive items like electronics, jewelry, or even their packaging visible through windows makes your home more appealing to burglars. It signals to them that your home may have items worth breaking in for.

Solution: Keep valuables out of sight from windows and make sure packaging from expensive purchases is hidden away, not sitting by the curb for trash day.

10. No Security Measures in Place

Homes without visible security cameras or alarm systems are more likely to be targeted. Burglars often skip homes that look like they’re being actively monitored.

Solution: Install a comprehensive security system with cameras and motion detectors. Even the visible presence of a camera can deter criminals from attempting a break-in.

Don’t Be an Easy Target

By being mindful of these red flags, you can take simple steps to ensure your home isn’t an easy target for burglars. From controlling lights and blinds remotely to keeping your social media activity private, there are many ways to protect your home, whether you’re at work or on a long vacation.

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