Securing The Most Common Entry Points Burglars Use
When it comes to protecting your home or business, knowing how burglars think can make all the difference. Many break-ins are not carried out by seasoned criminals but by opportunists looking for an easy target. That means poorly secured doors, weak windows, or hidden entry points are all potential invitations for someone to try their luck.
At The Security Shop in Kempston, we have years of experience helping homeowners and business owners across Bedfordshire secure their properties. In this blog, we explore the most common entry points burglars use and share practical ways to secure them.
1. Front Doors
It might surprise you, but the front door is still one of the most common ways burglars gain entry. Many simply walk up and try the handle, and in some cases they even force the door if the lock is weak.
How to secure your front door:
• Install a high-quality lock such as a British Standard five-lever mortice lock or an anti-snap euro cylinder.
• Add extra protection with a chain, spy hole, or secondary deadbolt.
• Consider upgrading to a smart lock or intruder alarm for added convenience and tracking.
• Make sure the door frame is solid and reinforced with hinge bolts or strike plates.
2. Back Doors and Patio Doors
Back doors are less visible to neighbours and passers-by, making them an attractive option for intruders. Patio doors, especially older sliding models, can often be lifted off their tracks or forced with minimal effort.
How to secure your back and patio doors:
• Fit anti-lift devices to sliding doors.
• Use multipoint locking systems on uPVC doors.
• Add security bars or internal bolts.
• Install motion-sensor security lighting around the rear of your property.
3. Windows
Unlocked or poorly secured windows are a favourite entry point for burglars, especially ground-floor or basement windows. Even a small bathroom or kitchen window can be used by an intruder.
How to secure your windows:
• Always lock windows when not in use.
• Install window locks that require a key.
• Fit laminated or toughened glass to make smashing more difficult.
• Use window security film to prevent shattering.
• Add visible deterrents like window alarms or CCTV cameras.
4. Garages and Sheds
Garages and sheds often contain valuable items like bikes, tools, and garden equipment. They also provide a potential way into the house if the garage connects to the main property.
How to secure your garage or shed:
• Use a heavy-duty padlock or a garage defender bar.
• Make sure garage doors have strong internal locking mechanisms.
• Cover any windows to prevent people seeing inside.
• Install a standalone alarm system or motion sensor light.
5. Upstairs Windows and Roof Access
Although less common, some burglars will use ladders or climb drainpipes to reach upstairs windows or balconies. If left open in summer months, these can be an easy way in.
How to secure higher-level entry points:
• Lock upstairs windows, even when you’re at home.
• Store ladders securely, away from the house.
• Use restrictors to prevent windows from opening fully.
• Fit exterior lighting to deter attempts at climbing.
6. Side Gates and Alleyways
A side gate or narrow alley provides cover for a burglar and often leads directly to the rear of the property.
How to secure side entrances:
• Fit gates with locks rather than simple latches.
• Increase privacy with solid panels or tall fencing.
• Use gravel paths or motion lighting to make movement noisier and more visible.
• Keep garden tools and ladders locked away, so they cannot be used against you.
7. Businesses and Commercial Units
For businesses, burglars often target staff entrances, poorly lit car parks, or loading bays. Weak shutters or unsecured fire exits are also common weak spots.
How to secure commercial properties:
• Install high-quality shutters or steel doors for back entrances.
• Use CCTV systems with clear coverage of all entrances and exits.
• Ensure fire exits remain secure from the outside but compliant with safety laws.
• Carry out a professional security assessment to identify weaknesses.
Extra Tips to Deter Burglars
• Install CCTV: Even a visible camera can act as a deterrent.
• Security Lighting: Motion-activated lighting removes hiding places.
• Alarm Systems: Professionally installed intruder alarms reduce the risk of burglary significantly.
• Neighbourhood Watch: Get to know your neighbours and keep an eye out for unusual activity.
By making your property less appealing to burglars, you dramatically reduce the chances of a break-in.
Frequently Asked Questions About Burglary Entry Points
At The Security Shop, we know that questions about burglary entry points can arise at any time. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions we get from our customers.
What is the most common way burglars get into homes?
The front door is surprisingly the most common entry point, often through unlocked doors or weak locks. Back doors and ground-floor windows are close behind.
Do burglars really break windows?
Yes, but it is less common as the noise attracts attention. Burglars prefer unlocked or poorly secured windows they can quietly open.
How can I make my house less attractive to burglars?
Keep doors and windows locked, install visible security such as CCTV and alarms, use outdoor lighting, and avoid leaving valuables in view.
What type of door locks stop burglars?
High-quality locks such as British Standard five-lever mortice locks and anti-snap euro cylinders provide strong protection. Multipoint locking systems on uPVC doors are also recommended.
Do burglars target upstairs windows?
Yes, especially in summer when windows are left open. Always lock upstairs windows and secure ladders so they cannot be used.
What can I do to protect my garage from burglars?
Fit heavy-duty locks, garage defenders, and consider a standalone alarm. Cover windows and keep valuable tools and bikes out of sight.
Is CCTV really effective in preventing burglary?
Yes, CCTV acts as a strong deterrent and provides vital evidence if a crime does occur. Pair it with lighting and an intruder alarm for maximum effectiveness.
Local, Trusted, and Ready to Help
Burglars often look for the simplest and quickest way in. By understanding the most common entry points and taking steps to secure them, you greatly reduce the risk of a break-in.
At The Security Shop in Kempston, we help both homeowners and businesses in Bedfordshire protect their properties with professional key cutting, lock upgrades, CCTV, alarms, security lighting, and fire protection services.
📞 Call us today or visit our shop on Bedford Road, Kempston, to find out how we can help secure your property.