Best Ways to Stop Burglars From Targeting Your Perth Home

Burglary prevention requires layered security—combining physical barriers, electronic systems, and smart behaviors. This guide reveals the most effective strategies Perth security professionals recommend.

1. Install Visible Security Systems

60% of burglars skip properties with visible alarm/CCTV systems. Make security obvious:

High-Visibility Deterrents

• External alarm siren box: Mounted prominently on front facade (even fake boxes deter 40% of burglars)
• Front door camera: Visible CCTV at main entry captures faces and deters attempts
• Security company stickers: Window decals indicating professional monitoring
• Yard signs: "Property Protected by..." lawn signs visible from street
• Outdoor cameras on corners: Wide-angle cameras burglars can see before approaching

2. Strengthen Physical Security

Doors & Locks

• High-security deadbolts: Minimum Grade 2 rating on all external doors ($80-150 each)
• Strike plate reinforcement: 3-inch screws into door frame studs ($15-30)
• Solid core doors: Replace hollow doors with solid wood/metal ($300-600)
• Door security bars: Interior bars prevent kick-ins ($40-80)
• Secure hinges: Non-removable hinge pins on outward-opening doors

Windows

• Window locks: Keyed locks on all ground-floor windows ($15-30 each)
• Security screens: Stainless steel mesh (very popular in Perth) ($200-400 per window)
• Window security film: Holds glass together when smashed ($8-15 per m²)
• Sensor stickers: Indicate windows are alarmed (even if not installed yet)

Gates & Fences

• Lock all side gates: Padlocks or keyed gate locks prevent backyard access
• Fence height: Minimum 1.8m to deter climbing
• Remove climbing aids: No bins, ladders, furniture near fences
• Spiky plants: Bougainvillea, roses under windows deter entry

3. Eliminate Vacancy Signs

Burglars watch for signs nobody's home. Create "lived-in" appearance:

When Away From Home

• Light timers: Random on/off patterns in multiple rooms ($20-40 each)
• Hold mail: Australia Post mail holding or neighbor collection
• Car in driveway: Have friend/neighbor park their vehicle
• Lawn maintenance: Arrange mowing while away (overgrown = absent)
• Don't advertise on social media: NEVER post vacation photos until you return

Daily Habits

• Vary routine: Don't leave/return at exact same times daily
• Curtains/blinds: Partially open during day, closed at night (not vice versa)
• Package deliveries: Redirect to work or secure parcel lockers
• Garbage bins: Bring in bins promptly after collection

4. Lighting Strategy

Burglars prefer darkness. Proper lighting eliminates dark hiding spots:

• Motion-sensor lights: All entry points (front, back, sides) automatically illuminate ($40-120 each)
• Dusk-to-dawn lights: Front porch/yard continuous lighting ($30-80)
• Solar path lights: Illuminate driveways, pathways ($15-40 each)
• Smart lights: Control remotely, simulate occupancy when away ($25-60 per bulb)
• Trim bushes near lights: Ensure lights aren't blocked by vegetation

5. Comprehensive Security System

Alarm System Features

• Monitored alarm: 24/7 response teams dispatch security/police ($2,500-4,000 installed)
• Door/window sensors: All ground-floor entry points
• Motion detectors: Internal coverage (pet-immune if needed)
• Glass break sensors: Detect window smashing before entry
• Smartphone alerts: Instant notifications when alarm triggers

CCTV System Features

• 4K cameras: Facial identification quality ($3,500-6,000 for 6-8 cameras)
• Night vision: ColorVu or IR for clear nighttime footage
• Remote viewing: Check property from anywhere via smartphone
• Cloud backup: Prevents footage loss if NVR stolen
• Strategic positioning: Cover all entry points + valuables

6. Secure Valuables

If burglars do enter, minimize losses:

• Home safe: Bolted to floor/wall for jewelry, documents, cash ($200-800)
• Hide valuables: Never in master bedroom (first place burglars check)
• Engrave electronics: Identifiable items harder to sell ($15 engraving kit)
• Inventory with photos: Document valuables with serial numbers for insurance
• Off-site storage: Bank safe deposit box for heirlooms, documents

7. Neighborhood Vigilance

• Join neighborhood watch: Community awareness reduces area-wide crime
• Know your neighbors: Watch each other's properties
• Report suspicious activity: WA Police 131 444 for non-emergencies
• Share security camera footage: Help neighbors identify suspicious persons/vehicles
• Community Facebook groups: Alert neighbors to local crime trends

Perth High-Risk Suburbs Priority

Properties in these suburbs should prioritize comprehensive security:

Cost-Effective Implementation Order