Burglars often do leave signs that they have been scoping out a home or business for a potential break-in. Being aware of these signs can help homeowners and business owners spot suspicious activity and take preventative measures before a burglary occurs. Some of the main signs to look out for include:
Suspicious People Loitering
One of the most obvious signs of a potential burglar is seeing unfamiliar people lingering around the property without any clear purpose. This could involve driving by slowly multiple times, walking around the yard or building, or parking across the street and watching the home or business. If the same suspicious vehicle or person is spotted repeatedly near the property, it may indicate they are studying the area in preparation for a burglary attempt.
Markers Left on Property
Burglars may intentionally leave small markers like piles of rocks, sticks, or other items near windows, doors, fences, or other access points. These are used to determine if anyone is present or paying attention to that area. If the marker remains undisturbed over several days, the burglar may interpret that as a sign the property is vacant and safe to target. Homeowners should be alert for any unusual markers and immediately remove anything that seems deliberately placed.
Access Points Tested
Trying to open doors and windows or shaking fences and gates can be a burglar’s way of determining which access points are locked versus unlocked and vulnerable. Even if they don’t gain entry during these tests, the attempted access may be caught on security cameras. Homeowners should routinely check footage for any signs of individuals testing doors and windows so extra security measures can be added where needed.
Damage to Locks or Lighting
Some burglars may try to disable locks, security lights, or cameras to make gaining entry easier. Tampered locks, disabled lights, or spray painted camera lenses are red flags a burglar has been attempting to remove obstacles in advance. All locks, lighting, and security equipment should be frequently checked for any damage and repaired or replaced immediately if issues are found.
Footprints in Yard
Burglars may walk along the perimeter of a property looking for hidden entry points, vulnerable windows and doors, pets, or security measures. Unexplained footprints in the yard, especially near access points, fences, gates, and on patios or decks could be a sign someone was trespassing and scouting the area. New footprints after rain or snow may make them more visible.
Unlocked Doors or Windows
After checking for unlocked access, burglars may intentionally leave a door or window unlocked to make it quicker and easier to gain entry later. Homeowners should check all doors and windows regularly to make sure they are still properly secured. An unlocked entry point that was previously locked could be a sign someone intentionally left it that way.
Moved or Missing Items
Not only might burglars move decorative items or lawn furniture to access hidden doors or windows, they may also steal tools, ladders, or other resources to assist in a future break-in. Homeowners should take inventory of valuable items and watch for anything that has been moved or removed from its usual location.
Pried or Torn Screens
Damaged screens on windows or doors could mean a burglar was attempting to remove the screen to unlock the window and gain entry. These screens should be repaired or replaced immediately to prevent easy access going forward.
Chalk or Paint Marks
Different colored chalk marks or painted symbols on the home or sidewalk may communicate information to other burglars about vulnerabilities, security measures, and occupancy. For example, a red X could designate an unsafe target, while a green check mark may indicate easy access. Homeowners should document and remove any unusual markings near their home.
Vehicles Parked Down the Street
Burglars may repeatedly park in the same area down the street to observe patterns of residents coming and going. This allows them to determine peak times when the home or business will be vacant. An unfamiliar occupied vehicle parked away from the property for extended periods may be a lookout spot.
Scrapings or Damage Near Locks
Locks that show scratch marks, scrapes, or other damage could have been tampered with using lock picking tools or makeshift picks. Burglars may use these tools to try gaining entry and then mark locks that are too difficult to pick quickly. Homeowners should add extra security to doors or windows with picked or damaged locks.
Solicitors Checking Access Points
Burglars posing as door-to-door solicitors may also be checking for easy access. While talking with occupants, they may glance around fenced yards, test gates and doors, and make note of alarms and locks. Homeowners should be suspicious of any questionable solicitors that seem to be looking around rather than focusing their interaction.
Damaged Fencing or Gate
Fences or gates that show new holes, cuts, or other damage could have been compromising by burglars to allow easy access without drawing attention. Any damage to fencing should be repaired quickly to remove access to the property. Securing gaps with boards, wire, or chain can provide a temporary fix.
Disabling Security Systems
Tampered control boxes, cut wires, or removed components could mean burglars have tried disabling alarms or security systems. All system components should be inspected, tested regularly, and repaired immediately at the first sign of disruption to prevent vulnerabilities.
What are some preventative measures against burglary?
There are several proactive steps homeowners and business owners can take to deter burglars and prevent break-ins:
- Install alarm systems, security cameras, and motion sensor lighting
- Ensure all doors and windows have secure locks
- Keep fences, gates, and access points in good repair
- Trim shrubbery and trees to eliminate hiding places
- Make the property visible from the street to discourage lurking
- Join a neighborhood watch program to increase awareness
- Keep valuables and electronics out of sight
- Turn on lights and TV or radio to appear occupied
- Stop newspaper and mail deliveries when away
- Ask neighbors and family to watch the property
- Report any suspicious signs or activity to the police
What are the best ways to burglar-proof windows and doors?
Fortifying doors and windows is one of the most effective ways to prevent burglaries. Recommended methods include:
- Install steel or solid core wood doors with deadbolts and security striker plates
- Use burglar-resistant door frames that integrate the jamb, threshold, and strike plate
- Secure sliding glass doors with anti-lift devices and security bars
- Replace standard screws in door hinges with longer ones that reach deeper into the frame
- Add glass break sensors or security film to glass doors and windows
- Replace inadequate locks with high-security keyless deadbolts and knobs
- Secure double-hung and sliding windows with stoppers to limit opening size
- Use wire mesh screens under windows to block entry after glass breakage
- Install exterior motion sensor lighting around all doors and windows
- Trim shrubbery and trees around doors and windows for better visibility
What tools do burglars commonly use during break-ins?
Burglars may have a variety of tools to gain entry quickly and disable security systems. Common tools used include:
- Lock picking tools – To open locked doors and windows without leaving signs of forced entry
- Pry bars – To force open doors, windows, and safes
- Hammers – To break glass windows or disable alarms
- Screwdrivers – To slip locks or pry open windows
- Wire cutters – To disable alarm systems or cut holes in fences
- Shovels – To dig under walls or foundations for access
- Rope – To lower themselves from rooftops and climb high walls
- Bolt cutters – To cut chains, padlocks, or metal grates
- Crowbars – To pry open doors, cabinets, and locked grates
- Flashlights – To see inside dark homes or businesses
Conclusion
Being attentive to signs of a potential break-in and taking preventative measures can help reduce the risk of becoming a burglary victim. Securing access points, activating alarm systems, ensuring visibility, and reporting suspicious activity are key to keeping homes and businesses safe. Staying one step ahead of burglars starts with recognizing the common signs they may be targeting a property.