The home security industry is built around monthly recurring revenue. Monitoring contracts, equipment rentals, proprietary systems that lock you in — none of it is designed with your best interest in mind. Here's what actually works.
Step 1 — Understand Your Real Risk
Most residential break-ins are opportunistic. The burglar isn't targeting you specifically — they're looking for the easiest target on the street. This means your goal isn't to make your home impenetrable; it's to make it less appealing than your neighbor's.
Step 2 — Cover the Entry Points
Over 80% of break-ins happen through the front door, back door, or first-floor windows. Start there. A good deadbolt, reinforced door frames, and window locks cost under $200 and eliminate the most common entry methods.
Step 3 — Add Cameras Strategically
You don't need 12 cameras. You need 3 placed correctly: one covering the front entry, one covering the back, and one covering your driveway or garage. Wide-angle cameras with local storage (not cloud subscription) are your best value.
Step 4 — Motion-Activated Lighting
This is the most underrated deterrent in residential security. Motion lights eliminate the cover of darkness instantly — and they cost almost nothing to run. Place them at all entry points and along the sides of your home.
Step 5 — Simple SOPs for Your Household
Most security failures are human failures. A few simple household rules — lock the door when you leave, don't post vacation plans on social media, know your neighbors — do more than any technology.
The I.S.A. Security Toolkit (coming soon) will include ready-made household security SOPs based on real-world experience. Join the waitlist to be notified.