4 ways technology can improve home security

Home is a special place for every Aussie. Whether we’re raising a family or just spending some downtime with loved ones, it’s a comfortable retreat from outside life. Our home is our castle, so it’s no surprise that we want to protect what’s most precious to us.

Worries about potential break-ins (70.4%), the security of our home and possessions (70.1%) and rising crime rates in the neighbourhood (45.9%) are leading concerns for everyday Aussies, according to the 2018 Choosi Home Fears Report. But the good news is that technology can improve home security and give you greater peace of mind. Here’s how.

1. Home security systems can be accessed anywhere, anytime

Long gone are the days when the best security you could give your home was to set an alarm and hope for the best. With the advent of hyper-connected technologies, home security systems that can be monitored in real time from anywhere in the world are extremely popular.

Most modern home security systems are linked to an app that lives in your smartphone. From that app, you can watch what’s happening at your home, receive push notifications if an alarm is tripped, and even grant access to certain visitors.

Gone are the days when you’re away from home and constantly worried about someone breaking into your home! Now you can see everything that’s happening with the swipe of your finger, 24/7.

2. Smart locks give homeowners greater security and convenience

The traditional door lock is on its way out. It’s replacement? The smart lock. This digitally controlled mechanism uses either a Bluetooth or wi-fi connection to accept or refuse entry into your home.

Not only does this make your home much more secure, it’s more convenient as well! Think about it — no more late-night calls to a locksmith if you lose your physical keys. Some systems also connect with digital assistants like Siri, Cortana or Google Home, so when it’s time to hit the hay, just tell your assistant to lock the doors without having to lift a finger.

Lastly, if you have a cleaner or dog-sitter who needs to enter your home while you’re at work or on holidays, a temporary passcode will give them access without the dangers of leaving a physical key under the doormat.

3. You know who’s at the door without having to open it

The 2018 Choosi Home Fears Report found that among people who have children and are concerned about their home security, 8 in 10 are more worried now than before they had kids.

Protecting your family as well as your home and possessions is important, so why not invest in a security system that lets you see who’s at the door without opening it? A camera installed at your main entryway can display what’s happening outside in real time, 24/7. So if there’s a stranger at your door, you don’t have to put yourself in harm’s way, as some systems even let you set off your alarm remotely.

4. You can control your entire home’s security even when you’re on holidays

Christmas is a busy time of year, with most people travelling for holidays or visiting family. It’s also the time when crime rates rise, which is why the 2018 Choosi Home Fears Report found 3 in 5 people believe Aussies aren’t doing enough to manage the risk of break-ins during the festive season.

Get total control and peace of mind this upcoming Christmas (start planning now, even though it’s a while off) with a home security system, that does everything. The latest systems offer a raft of features beyond just video surveillance and remote access — allowing you to active or deactivate all your security settings via an app.

Want people to think you’re home even when you’re not? You can jump into your home security app and turn on your smart lights. Control door locks, activate cameras, or even open your garage door — all through the convenience of the app on your mobile. Not only does this bolster your home’s security, it also streamlines getting in and out of the house — and who doesn’t want to save time in their busy lives?

You should always feel safe in your home, and a security system that takes advantage of the latest technologies is the best way to stay protected.

You can also put your mind at ease by preparing for the unexpected. When you’re thinking about the security of your home, why not also review your home and contents insurance to make sure you’re adequately covered? Choosi can help you compare a range of policies on the market so you can find a deal that’s right for you.