Security tips for your granny flat

Western Australia is generally a safe place to live in. Yet, even if at low levels, property crime such as break-ins, theft or vandalism do occur from time to time. Whether you are in a suburban or semi-rural area, you can always sleep sounder at night knowing your granny flat has the proper security measures.  

Here are 5 key steps to take to ensure your home is secure. 

Fencing 

Fencing around a property is one of the most important security measures one can take. It comes in a wide range of applications, from brick to metal, wired mesh and even wooden fencing. The choice you take might depend on your budget, security risk as well as the design.  

Fencing creates a barrier between your granny flat and a potential burglar, essentially making it harder for them to enter your property without legal right. Often criminals choose the path of least resistance, so having fencing can be a huge deterrent. 

Some fencings are merely ornamental, with low walls, easily climbed over. If you really want to secure your home, walls need to be high enough to make it difficult to climb over, have spikes installed at the edges and a security gate to keep everything secure. 

Placing the fence around the edge of your property further extends the barrier between you and potential criminal activity, extending your perimeter and view. 

Smart security 

No security system would be complete without installing security cameras. They have become very affordable and easy to install. Most cameras can connect to your modular home’s Wi-Fi network enabling you to have a live view around the clock. They come pre-installed with motion sensors which will send alerts to your mobile device when any movement is detected at your home. 

Make sure to cover all outside areas of your property and don’t create any blind spots. Also, have cameras around or near your fencing and especially at your security gate enabling you to see who wants to enter your property.  

If covering your entire property in security cameras sounds too much, at the very least, have a doorbell security camera installed. 

The Australian Police service have a few great tips for security camera installation here. 

Windows and doors 

Windows and doors need to be securely shut to prevent criminals from entering your home. It can be as simple as reminding yourself to always lock windows and doors at night and especially if you leave the property. 

Ensure that windows lock correctly and that you don’t have any issues that can enable a burglar to break in easily. Additional levels of security can be added such as window guards, burglar doors as well as an alarm system. Most Aussie Bush Cabins come installed with Jason windows and doors. They have additional security options which can be considered here.  

Motion activated lighting and alarms 

A good alarm system together with motion activated lighting should be your final line of defense against criminal activity. Both serve as potential deterrent but also as early warning systems.  

Place alarm beams around the outside and within each room of your modular home. Make sure to always activate the alarm when leaving your home and have it connected to the proper systems, whether that is an alert to your mobile device or a security company. 

Additionally place motion censored lighting at blind spots, dark areas or entry points around your home. This will do a good job adding an extra layer of security at night of scaring away criminal activity. 

Bonus tip: Hide valuables in a safe location 

Storing valuables in a safe location or a physical safe is always a good idea. If a burglar looks through a window and sees an expensive item on the kitchen counter, they would be more likely to try and break in than if it were out of sight.  We’re not saying you must bolt every item to the floor, just place your valuables out of plain view or in a safe location. If possible, have a safe installed in your granny flat to store money, watches, Jewelry.