When it’s time to call in a professional for minor home repairs, you may pay attention to the scope of the job, how much it’ll cost, and the quality of the work. But you should also pay attention to your home security. While there are lots of maintenance workers are just there to do the job, it’s wise to take some precaution and prevent potential security issues.
1. Never leave a key
Leaving a key for the repair worker to come into your home opens you up to potential problems, such as not returning the key or leaving and making a copy. It’s much easier to enter a home with a key than it is to forcibly enter. Don’t make a crime easy by handing out your house key.
If you can’t be home during the repair time, reschedule the appointment or get a trusted family member or friend to be home during the service call. If you’ve built a relationship with the repair worker and feel comfortable letting them in your house, a smart door lock lets you unlock the door for them when they arrive and lock the door as they leave.
2. Keep your valuables out of sight
When you know someone is coming over to make a repair, keep your valuables out of sight. This includes locking up your jewelry and medications, putting electronics away, as well as putting purses out of sight. When you aren’t looking, these types of items are small enough that they could easily be slipped into a backpack or taken without notice.
Some of the places where you can hide valuables might include a safe, a room where workers won’t go and that has a door to close, and drawers/closets. As soon as the repairs are finished, you can bring your items out and use them as you normally would.
3. Be aware of what’s happening in your home
Try to eliminate distractions so you can pay attention to where the workers are and what they’re doing. If possible, eliminate time spent watching TV, talking of the phone, checking the Internet, or making dinner. The more aware you can be why the repair is taking place, the safer you will be.
4. Be aware of scams
Unfortunately, there are many repairmen scams that circulate. These scams are usually ways to check out your home for a ruse-entry burglary. Some popular scams include:
- A person claiming to be a city employee or emergency worker.
- A solicitor claiming to offer low-price repairs.
- An unmarked truck or work van driving around the neighborhood.
If allowed inside your home, the burglar will work to distract you so you don’t notice theft. Often times, this type of burglary happens in pairs where one person distracts and another takes valuables.
5. Have people you know/trust do home repairs
Whenever possible, hire a repair worker that you know and trust. If you know the person, you’re less likely to get taken advantage of. If you do not personally know someone who can handle the repair/service, ask for a recommendation from a friend or family member. You should always confirm references with others and/or call the Better Business Bureau to find out more about the company.
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