Outdoor Security Walkthrough

Most break-ins start outside—weak lighting, blind spots, bad locks, overgrown landscaping, and unsecured gates. This walkthrough hits every major exterior vulnerability in one sweep.

For after-dark security details, check Nighttime Home Security Checklist.

1. Lighting and Visibility

• [ ] Verify all exterior lights turn on without flickering
• [ ] Add motion lighting to dark corners and paths
• [ ] Ensure house numbers are lit and visible from the street
• [ ] Replace burnt-out bulbs with bright LEDs

2. Cameras and Surveillance

• [ ] Confirm cameras cover doors, driveway, and sidewalk approach
• [ ] Check for blind spots behind vehicles or landscaping
• [ ] Adjust angles to avoid backlight glare
• [ ] Ensure Wi-Fi signal is strong at camera locations

3. Doors, Gates, and Entry Points

• [ ] Ensure all gates latch and lock
• [ ] Verify side-yard access is restricted
• [ ] Check garage side door for solid-core construction
• [ ] Inspect fence gaps for easy crawl-under points

4. Landscaping and Hiding Spots

• [ ] Trim shrubs below window height
• [ ] Keep trees limbed up to remove hiding spots
• [ ] Remove overgrowth near pathways and entry doors
• [ ] Clear vegetation blocking camera views

5. Windows and Perimeter Checks

• [ ] Check ground-floor windows for working locks
• [ ] Inspect window wells for debris or access points
• [ ] Look for tampering marks on frames
• [ ] Ensure exterior trim is solid and not rotten

6. Driveway and Vehicles

• [ ] Keep vehicles locked at all times
• [ ] Remove remote garage openers from parked cars
• [ ] Confirm driveway lighting works
• [ ] Check sightlines to front door and windows

7. Storage Sheds and Outbuildings

• [ ] Secure sheds with real locks—not padlocks from the dollar rack
• [ ] Lock up ladders so they can’t be used for break-ins
• [ ] Ensure outbuildings have lights or motion sensors
• [ ] Verify tools aren’t left outside overnight

8. Fence Line and Boundary Sweep

• [ ] Walk entire fence perimeter
• [ ] Check for leaning panels or broken boards
• [ ] Look for signs of digging under the fence (pets or pests)
• [ ] Ensure latches and hinges are rust-free

9. Mailbox and Delivery Security

• [ ] Ensure mailbox locks if you’re in a theft-prone area
• [ ] Add parcel box or camera coverage for packages
• [ ] Clear obstructions so deliveries aren’t hidden from view

A full outdoor sweep shuts down the easy opportunities burglars rely on—dark corners, weak gates, bad sightlines, and overgrown landscaping. Fix these and your home immediately gets harder to target.