Is home security important to you? Are the offerings of big security companies too expensive for you? Do you wish more cheap options existed? Now you are going to see them right in front of you. This article has some cheap tips for home security.

Your dog can actually safeguard a spare key. However, this method is only effective if your dog is large, scary, and stays outdoors. Keep a spare key around the dog’s collar.

Always change the locks after moving into a new home. You cannot be sure of the number of key copies that the former owner gave out. To ensure that you are the only one who has access to your house, call a locksmith. In addition, replace your locks if your keys ever get lost.

Look at the prices for all of the security systems that you are interested in. Prices can differ a lot among companies for the same type of protection. Get three quotes or more before making a choice.

Do not give the key to your home to your cleaning person unless you are certain they are worthy of your trust. You should not let cleaners have your keys if you feel like you cannot trust them, or if they will be working in your home while you are away. Go over their references and do some background research on the company they work for. If the cleaner has been sent by a company, call the Better Business Bureau to check on the company’s reputation.

Hiding places for spare keys must be chosen with extreme care and caution. Above a door frame or under a mat are not smart ideas. Try hiding the key in your outside dog’s collar.

Do not invite strangers into your home. There are some people who are very convincing and good at getting you to let them into your house. Some people will simply knock on your door to see whether or not there is a security system installed, and if there isn’t, they may target you later when you’re away.

If you’re going on a trip for an extended period of time, switch the ringer off on all home phones. A constantly ringing phone can signal to a burglar that the house is vacant, making it an easy target for their criminal activities.

Your garage needs to be secure. Many people are concerned about people entering their garages to gain access to their homes. Simply attach a C-clamp near the roller on the door track.

See if your area police department has any home security programs. Several in various jurisdictions have programs which entail providing a home inspection, what protective measures will help your home and even how to engrave valuable items to make them easier to recover. Get in touch with the department to determine their offerings.

The first step in making your home more secure is to change out your locks. Perhaps your roommate left town or you have gone through a messy divorce, and you need to feel that the home is safe. It is pretty cheap and the job won’t take more than a few hours.

It doesn’t matter how much money you spent, you should have an annual test. Ask someone from your security company to come over and have a look. Many factors cause issues with security systems like nature and wild animals. The problem might not be obvious to you, though.

Your home security system will depend on how much you can afford to spend. If you can’t afford any of the expensive solutions, you can at least use some of the cheaper methods to keep you safe. The tips that you’ve read can be great alternatives for home security. Included were some great tips to help you defend your home and save you the most money in the process.

Be brave! Talk to your neighbors. Look out for their property, and see if they will look out for yours. Don’t ignore any gossip either. You may find out helpful information about strangers lurking around.