Home Security Quiz –
Most homeowners believe their property is reasonably secure, but when asked specific questions about doors, windows, gardens and burglar alarms, many discover there are simple improvements that could make a significant difference.
This quick self-assessment is designed for homeowners across Harrogate. Work through each question honestly and total your score at the end.
Front of the Property (20 Points)
1. Is your front door fitted with a modern high-security lock?
☐ Yes (5)
☐ Not sure (2)
☐ No (0)
2. Is your front entrance well lit after dark?
☐ Yes (5)
☐ Partly (2)
☐ No (0)
3. Are valuable items hidden from view through front windows?
☐ Yes (5)
☐ Some are (2)
☐ No (0)
4. Does your property have a visible burglar alarm?
☐ Yes (5)
☐ Planned (2)
☐ No (0)
Score: ____ /20
Side & Rear Access (20 Points)
5. Is your side gate locked?
☐ Yes (5)
☐ Sometimes (2)
☐ Never (0)
6. Are rear doors protected with quality locks?
☐ Yes (5)
☐ Mostly (2)
☐ No (0)
7. Could somebody reach your rear garden without being seen?
☐ Difficult (5)
☐ Possibly (2)
☐ Easily (0)
8. Is external lighting provided around the rear of the property?
☐ Yes (5)
☐ Limited (2)
☐ None (0)
Score: ____ /20
Garages & Outbuildings (20 Points)
9. Is your garage secured when not in use?
☐ Always (5)
☐ Usually (2)
☐ Rarely (0)
10. Are expensive tools or bicycles secured?
☐ Yes (5)
☐ Some are (2)
☐ No (0)
11. Does your garage form part of your security planning?
☐ Yes (5)
☐ Unsure (2)
☐ No (0)
12. Are sheds and garden rooms locked?
☐ Yes (5)
☐ Mostly (2)
☐ No (0)
Score: ____ /20
Everyday Habits (20 Points)
13. Do you set your burglar alarm every time you leave?
☐ Always (5)
☐ Usually (2)
☐ Rarely (0)
14. Are spare keys kept outside?
☐ Never (5)
☐ Occasionally (2)
☐ Yes (0)
15. Do you review your home security every few years?
☐ Yes (5)
☐ Sometimes (2)
☐ Never (0)
16. Do you leave parcels or expensive packaging outside?
☐ Never (5)
☐ Occasionally (2)
☐ Frequently (0)
Score: ____ /20
Overall Protection (20 Points)
17. Would your neighbours notice suspicious activity?
☐ Probably (5)
☐ Maybe (2)
☐ Unlikely (0)
18. Have you upgraded security since moving in?
☐ Yes (5)
☐ Slightly (2)
☐ No (0)
19. Would your current alarm still suit your home’s layout after any extensions or alterations?
☐ Yes (5)
☐ Unsure (2)
☐ No (0)
20. Overall, how confident are you in your home’s security?
☐ Very (5)
☐ Fairly (2)
☐ Not very (0)
Score: ____ /20
Your Result
80–100 points – Excellent
Your home appears to have a well-balanced security strategy. Continue reviewing it as your property and lifestyle change.
60–79 points – Good
Your home is reasonably well protected, but there are opportunities to strengthen security further.
40–59 points – Needs Attention
Several areas could be improved. Addressing a few simple issues could significantly reduce your home’s vulnerability.
Below 40 points – Time for a Review
Your property may have multiple weaknesses that could be exploited. A professional assessment can help identify the most effective improvements.
Final Thoughts
No two homes in Harrogate are identical, so there is no universal security solution. A Victorian terrace, a detached family home and a modern new-build all present different challenges.
The purpose of this checklist isn’t to sell an alarm system—it’s to encourage homeowners to think about security as a combination of good habits, sensible physical protection and technology working together.
Even making three or four improvements identified during this quiz could make your property significantly less attractive to an opportunist burglar.
