Your home is supposed to be the safest place in the world for you. But unfortunately, several things can go wrong at any moment and threaten the safety of your loved ones. Even though violent crime rates are dropping, safety threats like falls, choking, fire accidents and theft/burglary are still very much a concern.
Thankfully, home security technology has developed by leaps and bounds in the last few years. However, many of these advanced systems come with high price tags, making them inaccessible for some homeowners.
The good news is you do not need to spend a fortune to keep your home safe. There are affordable, DIY safety measures you can implement to protect your family and belongings without breaking the bank.
But before we get to that, ask yourself - do you have your bases covered?
Protect Your Home’s Tomorrow, Today
Buying a home is getting more and more expensive by the year. In 2024, housing prices increased by 0.7% on a month-on-month basis since Q1, leading to a 4.4% jump in pricing in September.
Rising home prices mean your property is more valuable, making it a bigger target for burglars and other risks. Even with high-security measures in place, things can go awry. That is why every homeowner should get home insurance from a trusted insurance provider.
Having homeowners insurance has several significant advantages. For instance, it covers the cost of repairing or rebuilding your home if fire, storms or other disasters cause the damage. Without insurance, these repairs can drill a massive hole in your wallet.
Secondly, home insurance protects your belongings. If a fire or theft occurs, your insurance can help replace your furniture, electronics and other personal items. This means you will not have to bear the full cost of replacing everything on your own.
This type of insurance also provides liability protection. So, if someone gets injured on your property, your insurance can cover medical expenses and legal fees. This protection is crucial in avoiding financial hardships from unexpected accidents.
There is more. As per Hippo, your insurance can even cover your temporary housing costs and legal expenses during tough times.
What to Look for When Choosing Home Insurance
Home insurance is a critical investment, so you need to take your time and weigh your options.
Here are a few things to consider to help narrow down your choices:
Understand Your Coverage Options
Look for policies that cover the basics: fire, theft, weather and climate disasters. Check what is included in the policy and what is not. Ensure that the coverage satisfies your needs.
Ask questions if something is not clear. If you want another thing to be covered, clearly state your requirements in writing with your insurance representative before signing up.
Compare & Contrast Multiple Quotes
Do not settle for the first quote you get. Compare offers from different insurance companies. Look at the coverage, premiums and deductibles. This will help you find the best value for your money. Shopping around is a great way to ensure you are getting full coverage without overpaying.
Evaluate Deductibles and Premiums
Find the right balance between your deductible and premium. Increasing your deductible will lower your monthly payments, but you will pay more in the event of a claim. Determine how much you can afford to pay out of pocket.
Choose a deductible that fits your budget while keeping your premiums affordable. This balance helps you save money and ensures you have the coverage you need when something happens.
Look for Discounts and Bundles
There is no way to sugarcoat it: home insurance is not cheap by any stretch of the imagination. No price, however, is too high for your peace of mind. Buying cheap insurance might save you a few hundred bucks upfront, but it could leave you underinsured when you need it most.
Instead, find discounts and bundle policies to reduce costs without skimping on protection. Many insurers give discounts for installing security systems, having a claims-free history, or combining home and auto insurance.
How to Boost Home Security on a Tight Budget
Having a safety net over your head in the form of insurance is one thing. You still have to take proactive steps to keep your home safe every day. Below, we have highlighted some cost-effective tips to make your home more secure inside out.
Install Basic Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Make sure you have smoke detectors in key areas of your home, including the kitchen and bedrooms. They are inexpensive and may save your life someday by providing an early warning of dangerous conditions. The National Fire Protection Association reports that a smoke alarm can reduce the risk of fatality by almost 60%.
Do not forget carbon monoxide detectors. Continuous exposure to high levels of CO can cause a host of serious health issues, including brain damage and even death.
Protect Important Documents and Valuables
Keep all your valuables and important documents in a safe place, such as a locked cabinet or a safe. This reduces the chances of theft and keeps your important belongings safe even if a burglary occurs. We would also recommend spending just a few extra minutes labeling and organizing your valuables so they can be more easily recovered when necessary.
Maintain Clear and Well-Lit Exteriors
Intruders tend to steer clear of well-lit properties for obvious reasons. If you cannot invest in security cameras right away, do not worry. Install LED wall lights and garden lights in every corner of your home exterior, especially in the remote corners.
Shell out a few extra bucks on motion-activated lights around entrances and dark areas. You should also trim any shrubs and trees that could double up as hiding spots for burglars.
Inspect Electrical Systems Regularly
Take a good look at your outlets, switches and cords for any signs of damage like fraying or discoloration. Overloading circuits are the leading cause of overheating and fires. Use a multimeter to check if electrical currents are safe.
If you find any, call a licensed electrician to repair them. Regular checks help catch issues before they become serious hazards.
Install Deadbolt Locks and Window Security Film
Replace regular door knobs with solid deadbolt locks. Deadbolts are harder to force open, so your house will be even more secure. They are affordable and simple to install, making them a practical way to keep intruders out.
For added protection from storms and forced entry, strengthen your window glass with a security film. This film keeps the glass in place if it breaks. Also, frosted window films provide an extra layer of privacy for the occupants.
Store Flammable Materials Correctly
Store gasoline, paints and cleaning supplies in sealed containers and away from heat sources. Use metal cabinets for extra safety. Proper storage prevents accidental ignition and limits fire spread if something catches fire. Always follow the storage instructions on product labels to keep everything safe.
Protect Yourself First and Foremost
As you can see, you do not have to spend top dollar on premium home security devices in order to ensure basic safety. The key lies in spotting the security gaps quickly and taking adequate measures ASAP.
Last but not least, get your house inspected by a licensed home inspector every year to uncover hidden dangers such as roof leaks, mold, exposed wire or structural issues. Catching issues early on will save you a lot of headaches and money down the road.
