When you first set up your security system, you created it to coincide with your life at the time. Many people don’t rethink their security system settings down the road. As life changes, security needs change too. Here are some life events that should prompt you to update your security system settings:

A Roommate or partner moves in or out

If a roommate or partner moves out, it’s important to change your security system settings. Make sure that the name of the person moving out is taken off the lease ASAP, if applicable. This will limit their access to the building and your suite. If you rent, the landlord or homeowner cannot change the locks unless all tenants named on the lease agree.

Changing the locks is important when someone moves out, because even if they return their key, you don’t know if copies were made. If you have an alarm system or keyless entry system, all access codes should be changed as soon as they move out.

On the flip side, if a partner, roommate, or family member moves in, you’ll need to adjust your security system to accommodate them. Assign them an access control passcode, get them a key, and update your security company’s list of contacts so your new household member is alerted in the case of an emergency.

You’ve hired outside help

If you’ve hired a housekeeper or someone to help you run your business, someone new now has access to your home. Updating your security system settings is crucial. When hiring a housekeeper, choose a reputable cleaning company that does background checks on their workers and is insured. Set up your security system to have different codes during different times of day.

This will help avoid anyone gaining access outside permitted hours. Another option is to provide a lockbox where employees and visitors enter a code to get access to your home’s key. Any time a housekeeper or employee stops working for you, change the code to the security system and lockbox.

You adopt a pet

Now that you are a pet owner, your security system needs to be set up differently. Mintel says that 1 in 6 American adults own a pet that they worry about leaving home alone. Add to this the fact that almost 30% of home break-ins happen during the day, according to Deep Sentinel, and you have every reason to update your security to protect them. Home security system features that will help you keep your pets and family safe include:

• Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
• Temperature sensors
• Smoke alarms
• Pet-friendly motion detectors: these are created to ignore small, quick movements that are typical of pets. Accurate detection will let you know that if the alarm is triggered, it requires attention.
• Glass break sensors: will detect breaking glass or attempts to break the glass before someone has a chance to enter your home where your pets may be alone.
• Security cameras: indoor and outdoor security cameras are essential to protecting your pet. You can remotely keep an eye on your pets when they are home alone.

As your life changes, your security system needs to change as well. Make sure to update your security system when you experience life changes or new living arrangements.

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