ᐅ Home Security: What Is the Best Way to Implement It?

Good evening,

we are currently planning our house, and I am trying to gather as much information as possible. At the moment, I am focusing on the topic of security systems. We are planning without a smart home setup, so no window or door contacts are included. Our general contractor installs RC2N standard security on the ground floor. Now we are considering expanding this with video surveillance around the entire property. What are your experiences? Has anyone done something similar? Or would you recommend going for a traditional alarm system?

Thank you all in advance!

The feeling of safety is always subjective.
A good video surveillance system with detection will probably exceed your budget. It is also more of a supplement than a stand-alone solution.
Motion sensor lights are more effective in such cases, as is a dog. We have discussed this topic several times before.
RC2N does not have burglar-resistant glazing.
A “proper” alarm system only makes sense with appropriate contacts and sensors.
Without knowing your goals or sense of security and your budget, it is difficult to give recommendations.
It is better to upgrade the glass, provide sufficient lighting, and avoid creating hiding places.

First of all, the question is whether you live in an area where this makes sense. If it is important to you, I would recommend installing laminated safety glass and RC3-rated windows on the ground floor. That way, no one can break in easily. The front door should have the corresponding level of security as well.

An alarm system is probably unnecessary. It’s better to have a small legal self-defense arsenal ready just in case...

rick2018 schrieb:

Better to upgrade the glass, ensure good lighting, and avoid creating hiding spots.

I’m skeptical about the glass – that’s what the friendly police advisor told us after our break-in last year. Our glass wasn’t damaged either, but the patio door was, despite having RC2 rating. On the other hand, at my brother’s place, they first tried to pry open the door and then threw a rock through the window pane. He also has RC2 now (without N). Overall, I believe good lighting, visibility, and eliminating hidden corners are more important, although that’s not always feasible structurally.

Pre-installing the appropriate sensors in the windows is still reasonably priced and can save you from unattractive retrofitting later on.

Bookstar schrieb:

Better to have a small legal defense arsenal ready just in case...

An automatic deterrent system? Otherwise, you have to be at home, and then they generally don't come by anyway.

Ok, thank you very much. I had a budget of 3000-4000€ and was hoping to get something reasonably good within that range. I thought that RC2N includes P4 glazing?