After a Break-In: Repair Guide and Security Upgrade Tips for Perth

Discovering your home has been broken into is traumatic. Here's what to do in the first critical hours:

1. Ensure safety first: If you arrive home and suspect a break-in, don't enter. The intruder might still be inside. Call 000 from a safe distance. Only enter once police confirm it's safe.

2. Call police: Report the break-in to WA Police (131 444 for non-emergency, 000 if in progress). You'll receive a police report number—essential for insurance claims.

3. Document everything: Before touching anything, photograph: - Entry point damage (doors, windows, locks) - Interior damage and disturbance - Missing item locations - Any evidence left behind

4. Contact your insurer: Notify your home insurance company as soon as possible. They'll advise on claim procedures and may have preferred repair providers.

5. Secure your property: Call an emergency locksmith to secure entry points immediately. This is usually covered by insurance and is essential before leaving your home unattended.

6. Notify neighbors: Alert nearby residents. Burglars often target multiple homes in the same area. Your neighbors might also have useful information or CCTV footage.

Your first priority is making your home secure again. Here's what emergency repairs typically involve:

Forced door repairs: Most Perth break-ins occur through doors. Emergency repairs may include: - Temporary board-up if frame is destroyed - Lock replacement (usually rekeying isn't enough after damage) - Strike plate reinforcement - Door frame repair or replacement - Hinge security restoration

Typical cost: $200-$600 for emergency door security restoration

Window repairs: If windows were broken or forced: - Temporary board-up or plastic sheeting - Glass replacement (may need glazier) - Window lock replacement - Frame repair

Typical cost: $100-$300 for boarding, $200-$500 for glass replacement

Lock system restoration: After a break-in, you should replace or rekey all locks. Intruders may have taken keys or had time to copy them.

What to expect: - Emergency locksmith response: 30-90 minutes - Basic security restoration: 1-2 hours - Full repairs: May take 1-5 days depending on damage

Our emergency service: We offer 24/7 emergency board-up and lock repair across Perth. Average response time is 45 minutes. We can secure your home enough to sleep safely while permanent repairs are arranged.

Understanding the insurance process helps you get maximum coverage with minimum stress:

Documentation essentials: - Police report number (critical) - Photos of all damage before repairs - List of stolen items with estimated values - Receipts for emergency repairs - Quotes for permanent repairs

What's typically covered: - Door and window repairs - Lock replacement - Security upgrades (often up to a limit) - Stolen items (subject to coverage limits) - Temporary accommodation if home is unsecure

What's often NOT covered: - Upgrades beyond original quality - Security improvements above policy limits - Items without proof of ownership - Excess/deductible amounts

Tips for better outcomes: - Report the break-in to your insurer within 24 hours - Keep all receipts and documentation - Get written quotes before major repairs - Ask about policy excess before making small claims - Consider whether claiming is worthwhile for minor losses

Perth insurers' requirements: Many Perth insurance policies have specific security requirements. Your break-in might trigger policy reviews—use this as an opportunity to discuss security upgrades that may lower future premiums.

Our experience: We work with most major insurers and understand their requirements. We provide detailed invoices and documentation that satisfy insurance company standards.

A break-in reveals security vulnerabilities. Use this as an opportunity to prevent future incidents:

How did they get in? Understanding the entry method is crucial: - Forced door: Lock or frame weakness - Kicked door: Inadequate strike plate or frame reinforcement - Lock picked/bumped: Low-quality lock - Window break: No window locks or security film - Unlocked entry: Behavioral, not hardware issue

What was targeted? - Quick grab (electronics, jewelry): Typical opportunist - Thorough search: More professional burglar - Specific items: Possible targeted attack

Why your home? Criminals choose targets based on: - Poor lighting - Hidden entry points - Signs of absence - Visible valuables - Weak security measures - Easy escape routes

Security audit: After immediate repairs, get a comprehensive security assessment. A professional locksmith or security consultant can identify: - Remaining vulnerabilities - Priority upgrades - Cost-effective improvements - Modern security options

Free assessment: We offer free post-break-in security assessments for Perth homes. We'll examine how entry was gained, identify other vulnerabilities, and provide prioritized upgrade recommendations with costs.

Doors are the primary entry point for burglars. Here are essential upgrades:

Deadbolt upgrade: If you had a basic knob lock or low-grade deadbolt, upgrade to: - Grade 1 deadbolt (commercial grade) - 1-inch throw bolt minimum - Hardened steel bolt - Pick and bump resistant - Cost: $150-$400 installed

Door reinforcement kit: Even good locks fail if the door or frame gives way. Reinforcement includes: - Steel strike plate with 3-inch screws - Door edge reinforcement - Hinge shields (prevent hinge removal) - Cost: $100-$300 installed

Smart lock upgrade: Modern smart locks offer: - Keyless entry (no keys to steal or copy) - Activity logging (know who entered when) - Remote monitoring and control - Auto-lock features - Cost: $300-$600 installed

Door replacement: If your door is hollow-core or severely damaged, consider: - Solid core wood door - Steel security door - Reinforced frame installation - Cost: $800-$2,500+ depending on quality

Recommended minimum: Every external door should have a Grade 2 or better deadbolt with reinforced strike plate. Front doors warrant Grade 1 locks.

Windows are often overlooked but represent significant vulnerability:

Window locks: Many Perth homes have inadequate window security: - Install keyed window locks on all accessible windows - Double-hung windows need both sash and ventilation locks - Sliding windows need track locks and anti-lift pins - Cost: $40-$100 per window

Security film: Clear film applied to glass that: - Holds glass together if broken - Significantly delays entry - Maintains appearance and visibility - Provides UV protection bonus - Cost: $15-$40 per square meter

Security screens: Most effective window protection: - Stainless steel mesh that can't be cut easily - Allows ventilation while maintaining security - Deters opportunistic break-ins - Popular choice for Perth homes - Cost: $200-$400 per window

Bars and grilles: Maximum security but aesthetic trade-off: - Emergency release required for bedrooms (fire safety) - Best for ground floor, high-risk windows - Can be decorative - Cost: $150-$350 per window

Priority windows: - Ground floor (highest risk) - Hidden from street view - Near flat roofs or climbable structures - Large enough for person entry

Electronic security deters burglars and aids recovery:

Alarm systems: Modern alarm options include: - DIY systems: SimpliSafe, Ring Alarm ($200-$500) - Professional monitoring: Traditional alarm companies ($500-$2,000 + monthly fees) - Smart integration: Works with existing smart home ($300-$800)

Key features to look for: - Motion sensors - Door/window sensors - Mobile notifications - Professional monitoring option - Battery backup

Security cameras: Visible cameras deter criminals and provide evidence: - Doorbell cameras: Ring, Nest ($150-$350) - Outdoor cameras: Standalone units ($100-$400 each) - Full systems: Multiple cameras with NVR ($500-$2,000)

Placement priorities: - Front door (most important) - Back door - Driveway - Side gates - Interior valuable areas

Storage options: - Cloud storage (subscription required) - Local NVR/SD card (no ongoing fees) - Hybrid systems

Perth considerations: - Outdoor cameras need to handle heat and UV - Consider solar-powered options for remote areas - WiFi range may limit camera placement - Check local laws regarding CCTV recording

Hardware is only part of security. Behavioral changes are equally important:

Daily habits: - Always lock all doors, even when home - Don't leave keys in obvious spots (under mats, in fake rocks) - Close garage doors—even briefly - Lock car doors and never leave keys inside - Vary routines (departure/arrival times)

Appearance of occupancy: - Use light timers when away - Don't let mail or newspapers pile up - Keep lawn maintained - Have neighbors check on property during holidays - Consider smart lights you can control remotely

Reduce visibility: - Don't display expensive items near windows - Shred documents with personal information - Be careful about social media—don't advertise holidays - Use privacy screens or curtains

Key control: - Know who has copies of your keys - Rekey after losing keys or changing residents - Don't label keys with address - Use restricted keyways to prevent unauthorized copying

Community connection: - Know your neighbors - Join or start neighborhood watch - Report suspicious activity - Share CCTV footage if crimes occur

After a break-in: Criminals sometimes return. Be extra vigilant for several months following a break-in.

If you can't do everything at once, prioritize these upgrades:

Phase 1: Essential (Do immediately) - Replace damaged locks with quality deadbolts - Install door reinforcement - Add window locks to accessible windows - Budget: $300-$600

Phase 2: Important (Within 1 month) - Doorbell camera or front door camera - Motion sensor lights - All remaining window locks - Budget: $200-$500

Phase 3: Recommended (Within 3 months) - Additional security cameras - Alarm system - Security screens for vulnerable windows - Smart lock for main entry - Budget: $500-$1,500

Phase 4: Comprehensive (Within 6 months) - Full camera coverage - Professional monitoring - Security audit and remaining recommendations - Budget: $500-$2,000+

Best bang for buck: - Deadbolt upgrade: Prevents most forced entries - Motion lights: Excellent deterrent, cheap to install - Door reinforcement: Prevents kick-in attacks - Visible camera: Strong psychological deterrent

Avoid overspending: Don't buy technology you won't use. A simple, well-implemented system beats a complex one that's ignored.

A break-in is violation of your personal space, but it can be the catalyst for creating a truly secure home:

Key steps: 1. Secure property immediately (emergency locksmith) 2. Document everything for insurance 3. Understand how entry occurred 4. Upgrade security systematically 5. Implement behavioral changes 6. Consider electronic monitoring

Emotional recovery: It's normal to feel anxious or violated after a break-in. Professional security upgrades can help restore your sense of safety. Take time to process the experience and don't rush major decisions.

Prevention mindset: Most burglars are opportunists. Making your home harder to enter than the neighbors' is often enough. Visible deterrents (cameras, alarm signs, quality locks) are highly effective.

Professional help: We've helped hundreds of Perth families recover from break-ins. Our emergency service secures your home immediately, and our security assessments identify and address vulnerabilities to prevent future incidents.

Contact us: - 24/7 emergency break-in repairs - Free post-break-in security assessment - Insurance-compliant documentation - Complete security upgrade services

Call us now if you've experienced a break-in. We'll help you secure your home and restore your peace of mind.