Protecting your home starts with a thorough security assessment. Our comprehensive Home Security Checklist provides a systematic approach to evaluating every aspect of your property’s safety. This free, printable template covers exterior security, interior systems, daily habits, family safety plans, and maintenance schedules—everything you need for complete home protection.
Affiliate Notice: Links on this page may lead to page with affiliate links. As an Amazon affiliate I may earn a commission if you click on an affiliate link. This does not affect to price of the product.
HOME SECURITY ESSENTIALS CHECKLIST
📥 Download Printable Version
SECTION 1: EXTERIOR SECURITY ASSESSMENT
Front Entry Points
Doors:
- Solid core or metal doors installed
- Deadbolt locks (1-inch minimum throw)
- Strike plates secured with 3-inch screws
- Peephole or doorbell camera present
- Hinges on interior side or with security pins
- No mail slot large enough for hand entry
Windows:
- All ground-floor windows lock securely
- Key locks on sliding windows
- Window security film applied
- Laminated glass on vulnerable windows
- Window stops/pins for sliding windows
- Window sensors/alarms installed
Lighting:
- Motion-activated lights at all entry points
- Pathway lighting from street to door
- Timer lights for evening hours
- Solar lights in dark areas
- Porch light with camera capability
Perimeter Security
Fencing/Gates:
- Fence in good repair (no gaps/holes)
- Gate locks functional
- No hiding spots near entry points
- Clear “No Trespassing” signs if desired
Landscaping:
- Bushes trimmed below window level
- Trees trimmed away from roof/upper windows
- No large shrubs near entry points
- Gravel pathways (makes noise when walked on)
Garage/Outbuildings:
- Garage door closes completely
- Garage door opener secured (change code annually)
- Side garage door has deadbolt
- Sheds/outbuildings locked
- Ladders stored inside locked garage
SECTION 2: INTERIOR SECURITY SYSTEMS
Alarm System
Basic Components:
- Control panel in accessible location
- Door/window sensors on all ground-floor entries
- Motion detectors in main traffic areas
- Glass break sensors near large windows
- Key fobs for family members
- Yard sign/window decals displayed
Monitoring:
- Professional monitoring service active
- Self-monitoring app installed and tested
- Backup cellular connection available
- Battery backup for power outages
Camera System
Camera Placement:
- Front door coverage
- Back door coverage
- Garage/driveway coverage
- Side yard coverage
- Common area interior cameras (optional)
- Camera angles checked for blind spots
Camera Features:
- Night vision capability
- Motion detection alerts
- Two-way audio if desired
- Weatherproof rating for exterior cameras
- Local or cloud storage configured
Smart Home Integration
Automation:
- Smart locks on entry doors
- Smart lights on timers/vacation mode
- Smart thermostat with away mode
- Smart plugs for electronics/appliances
- All devices on secure Wi-Fi network
SECTION 3: DAILY SECURITY HABITS
Morning Routine
- Check all doors/windows are locked before leaving
- Arm security system when last person leaves
- Close garage door completely
- Move valuable items out of plain sight
- Adjust smart home to “Away” mode
Evening Routine
- Lock all doors/windows before bedtime
- Arm security system for night
- Close/lock pet doors
- Turn on exterior lighting
- Check camera feeds if expecting deliveries
Vacation Preparation
Before Leaving:
- Stop mail/newspaper delivery
- Arrange lawn care/snow removal
- Set multiple light timers
- Unplug unnecessary electronics
- Adjust thermostat
- Notify trusted neighbor
- Double-check all locks
While Away:
- Have neighbor collect packages
- Arrange for trash bins to be moved
- Check cameras remotely
- Avoid social media location posts
SECTION 4: FAMILY SAFETY PLAN
Emergency Contacts
- Local police non-emergency: ________________
- Fire department: ________________
- Nearest hospital: ________________
- Trusted neighbor: ________________
- Family out-of-town contact: ________________
Emergency Procedures
Fire Escape Plan:
- Two exits from every bedroom identified
- Meeting place established outside
- Practice drills conducted quarterly
- Escape ladders for upper floors
Intruder Response:
- Safe room identified (with lock/phone)
- Code word for danger situations
- 911 call procedure practiced
- Weapon safety plan (if applicable)
Child Safety
Education:
- Never open door to strangers
- How to use security system
- Emergency contact numbers memorized
- What to do if followed
- Internet safety rules
Home Alone Rules (if applicable):
- Check-in times established
- Door answering protocol
- Emergency procedures reviewed
- Approved visitors list
SECTION 5: VALUABLE PROTECTION
Document Security
Important Documents:
- Passports in fireproof safe
- Birth certificates secured
- Social security cards protected
- Property deeds/insurance in safe
- Digital copies in secure cloud storage
Inventory:
- Home inventory with photos/videos
- Serial numbers documented
- Receipts for major purchases saved
- Jewelry/appraisal documents secured
Financial Protection
Identity Theft Prevention:
- Shred sensitive documents
- Credit freeze considered
- Bank alerts for unusual activity
- Strong, unique passwords for accounts
- Two-factor authentication enabled
SECTION 6: MAINTENANCE SCHEDULE
Monthly Checks
- Test all door/window locks
- Test alarm system components
- Check camera angles/clean lenses
- Replace batteries in sensors
- Review security camera footage
Quarterly Tasks
- Change garage door opener code
- Update security system codes
- Test smoke/carbon monoxide detectors
- Practice emergency drills
- Review/update emergency contacts
Annual Maintenance
- Professional security system check
- Tree/shrub trimming
- Exterior lighting assessment
- Safe combination changes
- Insurance policy review
SECTION 7: SECURITY UPGRADE PLANNING
Priority 1 (Immediate)
- Install deadbolts on all exterior doors
- Add motion lights to dark areas
- Create basic emergency plan
- Document valuables with photos
Priority 2 (Next 3 Months)
- Install security cameras at main entries
- Add window locks/sensors
- Set up smart lighting timers
- Create family emergency binder
Priority 3 (Next 6-12 Months)
- Install comprehensive alarm system
- Add smart locks
- Implement full camera coverage
- Professional security assessment
RESOURCES & CONTACTS
Emergency Services:
- Police Emergency: 911
- Police Non-Emergency: _______________
- Fire Department: _______________
- Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222
Local Contacts:
- Security Company: _______________
- Locksmith: _______________
- Alarm Monitoring: _______________
- Trusted Neighbor: _______________
Online Resources:
NOTES & CUSTOMIZATION
Home-Specific Considerations:
- Pet safety needs: ________________
- Special needs accommodations: ________________
- Unique property features: ________________
- Neighborhood watch participation: Yes No
Security Goals for This Year:
- ________________________________________
- ________________________________________
- ________________________________________
Completed By: ________________ Date: ________________ Next Review Date: ________________
BONUS: Quick Reference Emergency Card
(Cut out and keep near phones)
IN EMERGENCY: DIAL 911
Our Safe Meeting Place: ________________
Emergency Contacts:
- ________________ (______) –
- ________________ (______) –
- ________________ (______) –
Security Code: ______ Alarm Passcode: ______
Medical Information: Allergies: ________________ Medications: ________________ Doctor: ________________
How to Use This Checklist:
- Print a copy for each floor of your home
- Complete one section per week to avoid overwhelm
- Involve all family members in the process
- Schedule quarterly reviews to update and maintain
- Share with neighbors to improve community safety
Remember: Security is a process, not a one-time event. Regular reviews and updates keep your home protected as your family and technology evolve.
For professional security system recommendations and installation guides, visit: Smart Home HQ Security Reviews
This checklist is for informational purposes only. Consult with security professionals for specific recommendations tailored to your home and situation.
“Regular security assessments are crucial for maintaining a safe home environment. Use this home security checklist quarterly to identify vulnerabilities and track your security improvements. Remember that home security is an ongoing process that adapts to new technologies and changing family needs.”
Home Security Checklist FAQ
How often should I complete this security checklist?
We recommend completing a full security assessment quarterly, with monthly checks on critical systems like alarms and locks.
Is this checklist suitable for apartments?
Yes, most items apply to apartments. Focus on door security, window locks, and interior systems rather than perimeter fencing.
Can I use this for business security?
While designed for homes, many principles apply to small businesses. For commercial properties, consult with security professionals.
📚 Expert Security Resources
For additional guidance, consult these authoritative sources:
- Industry Research: Security Industry Association
- Academic Studies: ASU Crime Prevention Research
- Community Programs: National Neighborhood Watch