The Complete Home Security Checklist for San Antonio Homeowners
San Antonio is a great city, but property crime happens everywhere. Here’s a comprehensive checklist to secure your home and deter burglars.
Doors — Your First Line of Defense
- ☐ Deadbolts on all exterior doors — ANSI Grade 1 or 2 with a 1-inch throw bolt
- ☐ Reinforced strike plates — 3-inch screws that reach the door frame stud
- ☐ Door reinforcement kit on the front door — prevents kick-in attacks
- ☐ Peephole or door camera — See visitors before opening
- ☐ Solid core or metal doors — Hollow-core doors are easily breached
- ☐ Sliding door security bar and anti-lift pin on patio doors
- ☐ Garage side entry door has a deadbolt
Windows
- ☐ Window locks on all ground-floor windows
- ☐ Window pins or sash locks on double-hung windows
- ☐ Security film on glass near door locks (prevents reach-in)
- ☐ Thorny bushes under first-floor windows (natural deterrent)
Lighting & Visibility
- ☐ Motion-activated flood lights at all entry points
- ☐ Timer or smart lights inside when away
- ☐ Trim hedges and trees near doors and windows — eliminate hiding spots
- ☐ Visible house numbers for emergency responders
Technology
- ☐ Doorbell camera (Ring, Nest, etc.)
- ☐ Security cameras covering front, back, and driveway
- ☐ Alarm system with door/window sensors and monitoring
- ☐ Smart locks with activity logs and auto-lock
Habits
- ☐ Lock doors every time — even when home
- ☐ Don’t hide keys outside — burglars check all the common spots
- ☐ Collect mail and packages promptly
- ☐ Use timers when on vacation
- ☐ Know your neighbors — community watch is effective
San Antonio-Specific Tips
- Summer heat means windows are often left open — make sure they have locks that allow partial opening
- If near JBSA or during Fiesta, extra vigilance during high-traffic events
- Ranch and rural properties: invest in gate locks and driveway sensors
Free Security Assessment
S.A. Locksmith & Security offers free home security assessments in San Antonio. We’ll walk through your home, identify vulnerabilities, and recommend solutions. Call (210) 348-3677.
Frequently Asked Questions
Deadbolts with reinforced strike plates on all exterior doors. This single upgrade prevents the most common break-in method — kicking the door.
A security system significantly deters burglars and provides peace of mind. Even basic door/window sensors with a loud alarm help.
Basic upgrades (deadbolts, strike plates, peephole) cost $200-$500. A full system with cameras and alarm runs $500-$2,000+.