Ah, the age-old battle of Home Owners vs. Squatters is heating up this year! In this corner, we have the latest and greatest in home security gadgets being wielded by home owners. And in the other corner, the cunning and persistent squatters looking to make your casa their casa. Who will emerge victorious in this epic showdown? You, the home owner, that's who!
Let's talk about some of the high-tech contenders vying to keep your home safe and squatter-free:
Smart Security Cameras: These all-seeing eyes keep a 24/7 watch on your property, sending live alerts to your phone if any suspicious activity is detected. With night vision, motion sensing, and remote viewing capabilities, squatters won't stand a chance! Plus, you can yell at them through the two-way audio to get off your lawn.
Smart Locks: Forget hiding spare keys under the mat. Smart locks let you control access to your home right from your smartphone. Grant temporary codes to guests or service providers, and revoke access in a snap. Squatters can't pick a lock that doesn't exist!
The BRINKS ANSI Grade 2 Commercial Keypad lever made me think twice about smart locks (in a good way). I was paranoid about such devices (which I still am) but after using it, I love the fact that you can literally remove all access when you're not there (vacation or after business hours). When codes aren't activated, the keypad has zero effect on the handle. - BluSmart Lighting: Nothing deters would-be intruders like a house that appears occupied. With smart lighting, you can set schedules, randomize patterns, and control your lights from anywhere. Keep squatters guessing and your electric bill in check. It's a win-win!
Smart Alarm Systems: If a squatter manages to breach your high-tech perimeter, a smart alarm system is your next line of defense. Blaring sirens, flashing lights, and instant alerts to your phone and the authorities will send them running for the hills. Some systems even have smoke, carbon monoxide, and flood detectors for extra protection.
But tech alone isn't enough to fully fortify your castle. Here are some practical security measures to bolster your defenses:
- Reinforce entry points with deadbolt locks, strike plates, and window locks
- Install motion-activated floodlights around your property's perimeter
- Trim back foliage to eliminate hiding spots and improve visibility
- Get to know your neighbors and join a neighborhood watch program
- If you'll be away, have a trusted friend house sit or pick up your mail
- Consider adopting a guard dog (or at least putting up a "Beware of Dog" sign).
By combining cutting-edge tech with tried-and-true tactics, you can create a seemingly impenetrable fortress that even the most determined squatters and burglars won't want to mess with. So go forth, my tech-savvy friends, and show those freeloading intruders who's boss! Your home is your sanctuary, and with the power of technology on your side, you can keep it that way.
In all seriousness, we felt the need to provide an article of this type... after the recent viral video from a Tiktokker. He felt that it would be a great idea to encourage fellow migrants who cross the border illegally to squat in homes instead. Squatting has resulted in home owners being harmed, so if you suspect that someone is in your home, back out immediately and notify the police. - Blu
Stay safe, stay vigilant, and long live the champion of your home - that's you!
