Keep Your Northern Virginia Home Safe During Renovation
No one likes to think about the possibility of their northern Virginia home being burgled, but the truth is criminals are opportunistic, and they’re smart. They know the signs of a vulnerable home: An overgrown lawn and newspapers piled in the driveway are a sure giveaway that the homeowners are out of town.
Travelers’ homes are a prime target, but so too are homes undergoing remodeling. No matter if the project is large or small, if you’re investing time and money to renovate your home, it’s important to take security into consideration.
Keep your northern Virginia home safe during renovation.
Protect your investment; protect your home. Follow these simple tips.
Make sure the exterior of your home is well lit at night.
Burglars are creatures of the night, and prey on dark homes. Proper outdoor light is important, especially if parts of your home are exposed to the elements. Don’t make it any easier for intruders to sneak in unnoticed; purchase outdoor lights with motion sensors, and keep your home safe.
Maintain the work zone around your home.
If the project is a major one, there may be several contractors working on your home, and they may spread their tools from pillar to post — even after the workday is finished. Speak with the project foreman, and remind him that burglars can make easy money on easily accessible tools. The contractors and crew should take, or lock up all tools and equipment at the end of each day.
Trust your contractor.
This seems like a no-brainer, but too many homeowners neglect to check a contractor’s references; they don’t get a quote in writing; and too often, they simply don’t understand the terms of the contract they sign. Do your due diligence, and you’ll never have to worry about any of your valuables going missing.
(Oh, and did we mention: If your home renovation project involves a new roof, we know just the northern Virginia roofing contractor for the job: Style Roofing.)
Let your alarm company know what’s going on.
It’s always a good idea to contact your security company before beginning any kind of major construction, as the changes may affect the way your alarm system works in your home. Likewise, if you’re staying somewhere else while renovations are underway, the alarm company may suggest increasing the security on your home. Chances are, they can also help you install the outdoor motion lights discussed above.
Don’t let improving the value of your home decrease the level of your security.