With break-ins on the rise across Ontario, homeowners and investors in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) need to stay vigilant. Toronto Police data shows that home invasions in 2024 have already quadrupled compared to last year. While these numbers are worrying, taking proactive steps can help keep your property safe.

Why Security Matters

Protecting your home is more than just about safety—it’s also about protecting your investment. Homes with strong security systems and safety measures have higher property values and are more appealing to potential buyers and tenants. By investing in security, you’re not just reducing risk—you’re also increasing your property’s overall worth.

Daytime Break-Ins: The Hidden Threat

Many people assume that break-ins happen late at night, but most residential burglaries occur during the day when homeowners are at work or school. Thieves tend to target homes that look unoccupied, so it’s important to make your property appear active:

• Acknowledge Knocks at the Door: Use smart doorbells or security cameras to respond to knocks, even when you’re not home.
• Involve Your Kids: Teach your children not to answer the door to strangers and to inform you immediately if someone unfamiliar shows up.

Community Awareness: Your First Line of Defense

A strong community can help deter crime. Setting up a neighbourhood group chat or text thread to share updates and report suspicious activity can significantly improve safety. Encourage neighbours to watch out for each other’s homes when someone’s away.

Tip: Create a Simple Group Chat

Set up a text group with nearby homeowners to keep everyone informed about unusual activity. The more connected the neighbourhood, the less likely it is to be targeted.

Make Your Property a Hard Target

A few strategic upgrades can make your home much less appealing to intruders:

• Install Quality Door Hardware: Use solid-core wood or metal doors with reinforced frames. Secure them with deadbolts and long screws in the strike plate.
• Secure Sliding Doors: Use security bars or place a wooden dowel in the track to prevent forced entry.
• Install Motion-Sensor Lighting: Bright, automatic lights around entry points like doorways and garages can scare off intruders.
• Lock Up Tools and Ladders: Store tools, ladders, and other items that could be used to break into your home in a locked shed or garage.

When You’re Away

If you’re leaving your home vacant for a while, take steps to make it look occupied:

• Ask a Neighbor to Use Your Driveway: A car in the driveway makes it look like someone’s home.
• Maintain Curb Appeal: Have a friend or service provider mow your lawn, shovel snow, and pick up your mail.
• Use Timers for Lights: Set lights to turn on and off at random times to simulate activity.

Avoid announcing your absence on social media until you’re back. A vacation post can easily tip off criminals that no one’s home.

Check Your Insurance Coverage

Make sure your insurance policy covers break-ins and theft. Some policies require regular check-ins when the property is vacant, so confirm these details with your insurance broker. Staying informed about your coverage can save a lot of stress if an incident occurs.

Know Your Rights in Self-Defense

If an intruder does enter your home, your safety comes first. Canadian law allows you to use “reasonable force” if your life is at risk. Deadly force is only justified if there’s no other option, and the threat is immediate.

Stay Safe and Stay Connected

Break-ins are a serious concern, but taking the right steps can reduce your risk. By securing your property, staying connected with neighbours, and keeping updated on local crime trends, you can protect your home, your investment, and your peace of mind.

For more security tips or if you’re considering buying or selling in the GTA, feel free to reach out. Let’s work together to keep our homes and communities safe!