"When people think of home security cameras, they imagine receiving alerts every time a squirrel or a cat passes by their front door. But technology is smarter than ever before"
- Lucy Cromwell
We know you’ve had that moment on holiday when you suddenly wonder, did I turn the oven off? Did I definitely lock the door? Are the curtains shut?
We’ve all had that stomach-dropping worry from time to time. But what if you didn’t need to worry about whether you switched the lights off or turned on your security system?
Technology is changing the way we live our lives and one of the most convenient ways it is doing this is through upgrading home security systems.
In this article, we will be sharing how UK homes are upgrading their security through emerging technologies. We hope it helps you take proactive steps to improve your home security and protect your assets.
How much of an issue is home security in the UK?
Whether you’ve just moved into a new property or are looking to make some home security upgrades, this article will provide you with some valuable tips.
Sadly, many homeowners in the UK are affected by break-ins and burglaries. In fact, according to research carried out by Aviva, 9% of UK residents have been burgled in the last year and 25% of people say they have been burgled before.
According to Police.uk, “Burglars are opportunistic thieves who prey on houses and flats. They seek out any opening that they can take advantage of, specifically doors and windows that are left open or unlocked or are easy to force. Anything of value that they might spot through a window will only spur them on.”
The effect of home break-ins on individuals
Experiencing a home break-in can leave you feeling vulnerable and anxious. Not only will you experience damage to your home, you may also lose valuable or sentimental items.
According to Crime Stoppers, “the average cost of a break-in for a homeowner is around £4,120 but the emotional impact can be priceless [...] nearly two-thirds (73%) of burglary victims reported considerable fear of becoming victims again. And 40% of burglary victims are afraid to be alone in their property in the weeks following the incident.”
Prioritising your home security is extremely important. Not only will it help you feel safer in your home, but it will help you leave your property in the comfort that it will remain unharmed in your absence.
What are the benefits of a secure home?
Home security isn’t something most people think about until it’s too late. Whether you’re heading out the door on holiday or you’ve come home to find the door unlocked and your belongings missing, home security should be at the top of your list of priorities.
When you take proactive steps to update your home security and keep your property secure, you can expect the following benefits:
Peace of mind
Increased property value
Crime deterrence
Reduced insurance costs
A private home life
Protection for your children
And so much more…
How to improve home security
Let’s take a look at some of the most popular home security upgrades UK homeowners are investing in...
Smart home security systems
UK homes are smarter and more connected than ever before. Whether you live in a new-build or you’re upgrading the tech in your existing home to keep up with the times, having a smart home is a game changer - especially when it comes to upgrading your home security system.
Home security today is so much more than locked doors and loud alarms, it’s about having the ability to manage and control your home from your phone - whether you’re at home or not - and smart security systems are currently one of the biggest UK home security trends.
Smart security systems allow homeowners to control their home’s security through one centralised hub.
Now you can use your phone to do everything from turning on the lights and upping the thermostat to locking the doors, remotely closing electric garage doors, and switching on the security cameras. It’s extremely convenient and a great solution if there’s a job or two you often forget when rushing out the door.
Facial recognition
Many of us have seen spy films that use fingerprints and facial recognition to give individuals access to a safe. And now similar technologies are being used in UK homes to support home security upgrade efforts and keep people safe.
Home security systems now have modern features like facial recognition and hands-free entry that allow homeowners to gain access without having to unlock the door. It’s hugely convenient when your hands are full of shopping, you’re carrying a baby and a nappy bag, or you’re older and have limited mobility.
Facial recognition is also available as a feature on smart cameras and doorbells, helping you see who’s at the door before you open it.
This new technology is extremely secure and gives you complete control over who has access to your home, such as family members and friends, and who does not. And it’s becoming an integral element of smart home security in the UK.
Smart locks
For UK homes embracing emerging technologies, gone are the days of clunky door handles and locks and keys. Home security upgrades, such as smart locks, are the superior way to secure your home.
Smart locks offer features such as keyless entry, temporary access codes, and remote home access (for when you need to let a friend in to water the plants). There is no lock and key, making it impossible for thieves to pick the lock and force their way in.
Another great benefit is that smart lock technologies can integrate with your other home security systems, such as your video doorbell or your facial recognition technology. This allows you to customise your security system to suit your needs.
AI and object recognition
When people think of home security cameras, they imagine receiving alerts every time a squirrel or a cat passes by their front door. But technology is smarter than ever before.
Now, nearly every doorbell or home security camera system is available with object recognition. This allows homeowners to keep an eye out for packages left at the front door and receive an alert when there is a potential intruder or something suspicious going on.
Some AI systems can even be set to send alerts to police - a hugely helpful feature as police are often called out for home security issues that turn out not to be a problem. And this is a big drain on police resources. With the help of AI and object and facial recognition, home security systems can now far more accurately alert you or the authorities of a genuine security concern.
Home security upgrades are changing safety for the better
The home security landscape is changing - and fast. While traditional tips such as fastening your windows, lighting up your garden, closing the curtains, and double locking your front door are helpful, they are far inferior when compared with the security measures made possible by new and emerging technologies.
Now our homes aren’t just safer, they are something we can control and customise to suit our needs. Home security isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity, and these new and emerging technologies are making home security more accessible to homeowners and renters in all different pay brackets, ages, and life stages.
Proactive security measures that make a difference
We hope this article has really highlighted the importance of home security and how technology is changing the landscape for the better. Technology is helping homeowners and renters take proactive steps to protect themselves and their homes rather than being reactive. Proactive home security is here and now that it is, there’s no going back.
