Current Alerts — Updated March 2026
Porch piracy is up 47% YoY — video doorbells with package detection are the single most effective deterrent. What to do →
Key relay attacks on keyless entry cars are epidemic in suburban driveways. Your fob signal passes through walls. $12 fix →
Default router credentials are the most common home network attack vector. If you haven’t changed yours, your devices are exposed. How to fix →
Where are you in your homeowner journey?
Start Here
Three Steps to a Safer Home
Not sure where to begin? These free tools will help you assess your current security, identify gaps, and understand real costs.
Expert Recommendations
Our Top Picks for Homeowners
Every product below has been independently tested and reviewed by our editorial team. No pay-to-play, no sponsored placements.
The Weekly Briefing
One threat. One fix. One product. Every Tuesday.
Home security tips, product alerts, and threat updates for homeowners. No spam. No sponsored content. Unsubscribe anytime.
In-Depth Guides
Key Guides for Homeowners
Expert buyer's guides and how-to articles written specifically for homeowners — independently researched, regularly updated.
Head-to-Head
Comparisons for Homeowners
Can't decide between two popular systems? Our side-by-side comparisons break down pricing, features, contracts, and real-world performance.
Threat Landscape
Current Threats Homeowners Face in 2026
Understanding what you're protecting against is the first step to choosing the right security setup.
Package Theft
An estimated 49 million Americans had at least one package stolen in the past year. Video doorbells and smart lockboxes are the most effective deterrents. Read our package theft guide →
Daytime Break-Ins
Most residential burglaries happen between 10 AM and 3 PM when homes are empty. Visible security cameras, motion-activated lights, and monitored alarm systems reduce break-in risk by up to 60%.
Smart Home Vulnerabilities
Unsecured IoT devices (cameras, locks, thermostats) are increasingly targeted by hackers. Default passwords, outdated firmware, and unencrypted connections are the top attack vectors. Read our IoT security guide →
Fire & CO Risks
House fires cause $8.9 billion in property damage annually. Smart smoke and CO detectors like Nest Protect send phone alerts when you're away and tell you which room has the problem. Fire escape plan guide →
Catalytic Converter & Car Theft
Vehicle-related theft continues to rise, especially catalytic converter theft. Driveway cameras and GPS trackers are your best defense. Catalytic converter theft prevention →
Where to Start
New Homeowner vs. Existing Homeowner
Just Moved In?
- Rekey or replace all exterior locks immediately
- Change the garage door opener code
- Check all windows for functional locks
- Install a video doorbell within the first week
- Set up a home security system before unpacking
- Meet your neighbors and exchange contact info
- Test all smoke and CO detectors; replace batteries
- Review your home insurance policy for security discounts
Already Settled In?
- Audit your current setup: are cameras positioned correctly?
- Update firmware on all smart home and security devices
- Check and replace smoke/CO detector batteries (every 6 months)
- Review camera footage storage: is it cloud or local?
- Walk your property at night to find dark spots and blind zones
- Test your alarm system with your monitoring company
- Check door frames, strike plates, and hinges for wear
- Prune bushes near entry points that provide cover for intruders
Save Money
Insurance Discounts for Security Systems
Most major homeowners insurance providers offer discounts of 5%–20% for monitored security systems. Some also discount for smoke detectors, deadbolts, and water leak sensors.
- Professionally monitored alarm system: Typically 5%–20% discount. Most insurers require a certificate from your monitoring company.
- Smoke & CO detectors: 2%–5% discount for interconnected, monitored smoke and CO detectors.
- Water leak sensors: Some insurers offer 2%–5% for leak detection systems that prevent water damage claims.
- Deadbolts on exterior doors: 1%–3% for deadbolts on all entry points. Smart locks with auto-lock count.
- Security cameras: Some insurers discount for visible exterior cameras, though this varies widely by provider.
Call your insurance agent and ask specifically what security features qualify for discounts. Many homeowners leave hundreds of dollars on the table. Full insurance discounts guide →
Connected Home
Smart Home Integration
A security system is more powerful when it works with the rest of your smart home. Here's what to prioritize.
Voice Assistants
Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri can arm your system, check camera feeds, and lock doors. Ring integrates best with Alexa; SimpliSafe works with both Alexa and Google. Apple HomeKit support remains limited across security systems.
Automation Routines
Set your system to arm automatically at bedtime, turn on porch lights when motion is detected, or lock all doors when you leave the house. These automations reduce the chance of human error — the leading cause of security gaps.
Network Security
Every connected device is a potential entry point. Use a dedicated IoT VLAN or guest network for smart home devices, update firmware regularly, and never use default passwords. Home network guide →
Be Prepared
Emergency Protocols Every Homeowner Needs
Fire
Practice your escape plan twice a year. Every bedroom needs two exit routes. Designate an outdoor meeting point. Keep fire extinguishers on every floor — check the gauge monthly. Fire escape plan →
Power Outage
Verify your security system has cellular backup (most monitored systems do). Keep flashlights and a battery-powered radio accessible. A UPS battery backup for your router keeps cameras running for 1–4 hours. Power outage guide →
Gas Leak
Know your gas meter shutoff valve location. If you smell gas: don't flip switches, open doors as you leave, and call your gas company from outside. Some smart home sensors can detect natural gas and alert you. Gas leak response →
Interactive Tools
Assess & Plan Your Security
Home Security Checklist
Room-by-room interactive checklist to identify gaps in your home security. Track your progress as you harden each area.
Start checklist →Security Scorecard
Answer a quick assessment to get a personalized security score and prioritized recommendations for your home.
Take assessment →🏠
Homeowner Starter Kit
SimpliSafe + Nest Protect + Schlage Encode Plus
Three layers of protection. One cart.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need professional monitoring?
Not necessarily. Professional monitoring means a 24/7 call center contacts emergency services when your alarm triggers — useful if you travel often or want peace of mind. Self-monitoring (via app alerts) is free and works well if you can respond quickly. Most systems, including SimpliSafe and Ring, offer both options. Professional monitoring typically costs $10–$25/month.
Can I install a security system myself?
Yes. Most modern security systems — SimpliSafe, Ring Alarm, Abode, Cove — are designed for DIY installation with peel-and-stick sensors, step-by-step app guides, and no wiring. A typical setup takes 30–60 minutes. Professional installation is available from ADT and Vivint but usually involves a contract and installation fee.
What's the best security system without a contract?
SimpliSafe is our top pick for contract-free security. Plans start at $17.99/month for professional monitoring with no long-term commitment — cancel anytime. Ring Alarm and Abode also offer no-contract monitoring plans. Avoid ADT and Vivint if you want flexibility, as they typically require 3–5 year agreements.
How many cameras do I need?
For most homes, 3–5 cameras provide solid coverage: one video doorbell, one or two covering the backyard and side entrances, and one indoor camera for a main hallway or living area. Larger properties or homes with detached garages may need more. Start with entry points and expand based on blind spots you discover.
Do security cameras actually deter burglars?
Yes. A University of North Carolina study found that 60% of convicted burglars said the presence of a security system or cameras would cause them to choose a different target. Visible cameras are more effective than hidden ones for deterrence. For evidence gathering, a combination of visible and discreet cameras works best.
Should I get local or cloud camera storage?
It depends on your priorities. Local storage (like Eufy) means no monthly fees and your footage stays on your property. Cloud storage (Ring, Arlo) means footage survives even if a burglar steals your camera. The ideal setup is both: local storage as your primary archive with cloud backup for critical events.
How do I secure sliding glass doors?
Place a security bar or cut-to-fit dowel in the track to prevent forced opening. Install a secondary lock at the top of the door frame. Apply security film to the glass to make it shatter-resistant. Add a glass-break sensor connected to your alarm system. These four steps cover the most common sliding door vulnerabilities.
What's the difference between a security system and a smart lock?
A security system monitors your entire home — doors, windows, motion, fire, CO — and can dispatch emergency services. A smart lock controls a single door's access with features like remote unlock, auto-lock, and guest codes. They work best together: the smart lock handles access control while the security system handles threat detection and response.
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