What Burglars Look For: A Criminologist’s Perspective
Understanding the Mindset of a Burglar
Burglars aren’t just randomly breaking into homes; they look for easy targets that offer the least resistance and the highest reward. As a criminologist specialising in security, I’ve studied criminal behaviour extensively, and the patterns are clear - most burglars prefer quick access, minimal risk, and valuable items they can grab in minutes.
So, what exactly do burglars look for before deciding to break into a home? Let’s break it down.
1. Signs That No One is Home
Most burglaries occur when a house is empty, and criminals are surprisingly good at spotting the signs of an unoccupied home. They look for:
No lights on at night or the same light left on 24/7
Overflowing mail or unattended parcels
No cars in the driveway for extended periods
Blinds or curtains closed at all times, making it seem like no one is actively using the home
No visible movement inside the house or yard
How to Deter Them:
Use timed smart lights to create the illusion of occupancy.
Have a neighbour collect your mail or use a hold service when away.
Park a car in the driveway if possible.
Leave a radio or TV on at a low volume when out.
2. Easy Entry Points (Weak Doors & Windows)
Burglars don’t want to spend more than a few minutes breaking in. They target homes with weak entry points, including:
Old or flimsy front doors that can be kicked in
Unlocked side or back doors (often forgotten by homeowners)
Sliding doors without security bars
Windows left open or with weak latches
Pet doors that provide unexpected access
How to Deter Them:
Install deadbolts and reinforce door frames.
Use security screens on all doors and windows.
Add window locks and consider shatter-resistant film.
Secure sliding doors with a bar or dowel in the track.
3. Visible Valuables (Tempting Targets)
Burglars look for high-value items that are easy to grab and resell, such as:
Laptops and tablets near windows
Car keys left in plain sight
Jewellery boxes on dressers
Wallets or cash on kitchen counters
Expensive electronics visible through curtains
How to Deter Them:
Keep valuables out of sight from windows and entryways.
Store keys, wallets, and electronics in less obvious places.
Invest in a small home safe for jewellery and important documents.
4. Lack of Security Measures
Homes without visible security measures are prime targets. Burglars actively avoid houses with:
CCTV cameras or video doorbells
Motion-activated lights
Security system stickers/signs (even if you don’t have one!)
Fencing or locked gates
A dog (big or small—noise is the problem for them!)
How to Deter Them:
Install a visible security camera or video doorbell.
Use motion-sensor lighting around entry points.
Display security stickers or signs.
Secure fences and gates with locks.
5. Climbable or Hidden Access Points
Burglars love using natural cover and elevation to access homes undetected. They take advantage of:
Overgrown bushes that block visibility from the street
Trees or trellises near second-storey windows
Unsecured garages providing backdoor access
Dark, unlit areas where they can hide
How to Deter Them:
Trim back bushes and trees near windows.
Install motion-sensor lights around dark areas.
Secure second-storey windows and remove climbable objects.
6. Social Media Oversharing (Virtual Burglar Clues)
Modern burglars use social media to find their next targets. They look for posts about:
Holiday plans (letting them know when you’re away)
Expensive new purchases (new TVs, gaming consoles, jewellery)
Check-ins at the airport (confirming you’re not home)
How to Deter Them:
Avoid posting holiday plans until you return.
Don’t share expensive purchases publicly.
Adjust privacy settings so only close friends can see certain posts.
Final Thoughts: Stay One Step Ahead
Burglars don’t take unnecessary risks, and even small security improvements can make your home a much less attractive target. The goal isn’t to turn your house into a fortress—it’s to make it more trouble than it’s worth for a potential intruder.
If you want a professional security assessment tailored to your home, we can help. With a criminology-based approach, we identify vulnerabilities you may not have noticed and provide cost-effective solutions that actually work.
🔒 Book a Home Security Check today and get peace of mind! Contact us now.
