Your 2025 residential and commercial property security guide
- Dom Hines
- Aug 12
- 5 min read
Ever arrived home to a smashed window or open door, along with missing valuables and damage to your property? Whether you’re a homeowner, renter or business owner, nobody wants to deal with the sense of violation, loss of belongings and insurance issues that come with a break-in.
In the face of high burglary and retail crime rates, how do you protect your home or business? While there’s no way to completely eliminate the risk, you can reduce your chances with strong security measures. Burglary is often a crime of opportunity, with would-be thieves looking for easy access points. The more you can do to remove these, the better.
In this article, we look at the importance of property security in 2025, along with useful security measures and common mistakes to avoid.
Why is property security important in 2025?
Property security is a no-brainer. It’s a way to protect your home or business from damage and loss – and to keep people living or working at your property safe. A safe, secure property also gives you peace of mind when you’re working or on holiday.
In our current climate, it’s particularly relevant. While the overall crime rate has fallen slightly over the last few years, burglaries and theft are still all too common. The NZ Police reported 62,000 burglaries across NZ in 2024. Businesses are also dealing with high numbers of burglaries – one report estimates that retail crime costs NZ businesses $2.6 billion each year. That’s a lot of potential break-ins to think about.
That’s why it’s best to be proactive about security. Making smart choices and installing some smart tech can help you avoid being just another crime statistic.
7 tips to improve your property security
Lights, locks, alarms and more – here are seven ways to boost security at your home, bach or business.
Install good-quality, sensor-activated motion lighting
Sensor-activated motion lights flick on when they sense movement outside your property, which can deter potential burglars and alert you if you’re in the house. Good quality motion-sensor lights should be sensitive enough to pick up small movements, bright enough to light up a large space, and durable enough to handle weather conditions at your property.
Install locks on both doors and windows
Installing locks on doors and windows seems almost too obvious to mention, but many homes still have old, loose window latches and inadequate locks on doors – particularly on sliding and back doors. Check every door or window and install high-quality locks as needed. Many homeowners are now choosing smart electronic locks as another way to up security – you’ll usually need a qualified electrician to install these.
Consider installing security screens
Security screens add another layer of protection to doors and windows, making it harder to break glass or access locks. However, some people don’t like the look of screens – and they won’t necessarily fit every type of door or window.
Keep your property well-maintained
Maintaining your property means checking locks and latches, replacing outdoor light bulbs, and keeping a close eye on anything that could make it easier to get in. A property that’s clean and well-maintained may also be less appealing to potential criminals.
Keep your WiFi system secure and up-to-date
What does WiFi have to do with security? Well, if you’re using smart locks, alarms and CCTV, they’re generally connected to your WiFi system. This means, if your WiFi isn’t secure, it could leave you open to hackers, who could gain access to your alarm system or locks.
Install an alarm and CCTV surveillance system
Alarms and CCTV surveillance systems are your first line of defence against intruders. Alarms let you know that someone has entered the property, and act as a deterrent for intruders. CCTV surveillance lets you keep an eye on your property, even if you’re not there, and can be used to identify offenders if a break-in does happen.
Consider using an alarm monitoring service
Monitored alarms amp up the security even further. This type of alarm connects to a monitoring service, which gets an alert when an alarm is triggered. The security team springs into action, visiting the property, contacting you, and working with security or police if needed. While monitored alarms are usually associated with commercial or retail property, some homeowners like the added security they offer.
Common security mistakes to avoid
We’ve all forgotten to lock a door occasionally – most of the time, it’s a non-issue. But these common security mistakes can be much riskier.
Not using a security system
One big, common mistake? Not using an alarm or security system at all. Without alarms or cameras, you don’t know if or when intruders are entering your property – and there’s no way to identify people after a break-in.
Hiding keys outside
It’s handy to have a key hidden outside your home, but it’s also a major security risk. Hiding a key under a rock or pot plant is common enough that intruders know about it – you really don’t want to make access to your home that easy.
Not using sufficient locks on windows and doors
Older buildings come with older locks and window fastenings, which may not be up to the job of securing your home or business. Window locks should hold the window firmly in place and ideally lock with a key – not just a handle or fastening. Door locks should include deadbolts, fitted into the wood of the door rather than the handle.
Making it obvious you are away
Empty, dark houses are a magnet for intruders. If you’re going away – even just for a weekend – do your best not to make it obvious. Leave a car in the driveway if possible, and a light on inside. If you’re away for a longer period, ask a neighbour to collect your mail and bring in your rubbish bins.
Using outdated security systems
Why replace an existing security system? Older systems may seem fine, but they offer limited functionality compared to smart systems. An old system is also more likely to break down or malfunction, giving you a false sense of security.
Property security FAQs
What is the best way to keep your property safe?
The best way to keep your property safe is to install alarms and CCTV, upgrade locks, and use motion-sensor lights. If possible, a monitored alarm system offers the highest level of protection.
What are the best ways to deter burglars?
The best ways to deter burglars include using security alarms, cameras and lights outside your property and keeping doors and windows securely locked. It’s also a good idea to get to know your neighbours, so they can let you know if anything suspicious happens at your property.
Is installing an alarm system an essential part of property security?
Installing an alarm system is essential if you want true property security and peace of mind. A modern alarm system lets you know if an intruder has entered your property, even if you’re away, and can also scare burglars away.
Why should you use an alarm monitoring service?
You should use an alarm monitoring service if you want an extra layer of security support for your home or business – particularly if you’re often out of town. With a monitored alarm, you know that someone will follow up whenever the alarm is triggered, giving you unmatched peace of mind.
Chat with a security specialist at Hines today
Want to make sure your property is safe and secure? The experts at Hines Security can help with alarm systems, cameras and CCTV, alarm monitoring and general guidance.
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