Reading time: 6 minutes / Lars Buchwald / 8 October 2025

Do-it-yourself Security Check:
How to Properly Inspect Your House & Flat

Contents of this Article

→ Don’t panic – security starts with a first glance

→ Why basic mechanical security comes first

→ A typical real-life example

→ Facts versus myths: how burglars really operate

→ The security check in practice – step by step

→ Doors, windows & more – what you should look out for

→ The main weak points at a glance

→ What to tackle first? How to set the right priorities

→ Useful sources and further advice

→ My conclusion: security is not a luxury but a responsibility

First of all: don’t panic. A good security check isn’t a huge task, but a quick, targeted run-through of the most important weak spots in your house or flat. Sometimes a few simple measures are enough, and you’ll quickly know where the problem lies — and where a burglar will most likely give up after a minute or two and move on.

Why you should spend a few minutes first

The police and security experts recommend checking the basic mechanical protections first: door cylinders, security escutcheons, hinges, frames and windows. These basic measures make the biggest difference and can significantly increase your security. (Police advice) A simple practical example A situation that, sadly, still occurs thousands of times in Germany: a perfectly ordinary front door, the lock cylinder protrudes roughly 8 mm, and there is no solid security escutcheon. Instead there’s a thin strike plate typical of installations from the 1970s or 1980s. This is not merely a weak spot but more of an invitation to the sort of people you never want in your home. Often that’s enough for a burglar to gain access using simple, fast methods. If, by contrast, you have cylinders with pull- and drill-protection, a proper security escutcheon and a sturdy strike plate, an attack takes much longer — and most offenders will then look for an easier target. 

Now some of you might be thinking: “Hang on — you sell the very tools used to open locks.” That’s true — but it’s only half the story. According to the police, in around 80% of burglaries simple tools such as screwdrivers or crowbars are used, not lockpicks, pipe tools or other specialised devices. Crime statistics confirm this: force and levering methods are the norm; delicate “picking” is the absolute exception. Source: police 

We explicitly support only legal use by certified professionals (authorities, locksmiths, security companies, training organisations) — we do not tolerate misuse. Where there is reasonable suspicion we cooperate with the authorities.

How to Carry Out the Security Check – Step by Step

Set aside 30–45 minutes for the first round. Take a torch, tape measure or ruler, ideally a smartphone (for photos) and a notepad. Work your way through room by room – from outside to inside. 

Front Door / Flat Door
What to check?

• Measure cylinder projection: check how far the profile cylinder protrudes from the door. Too much projection is dangerous, as the cylinder can be gripped, pulled or damaged more easily. The less it sticks out, the better – though it must remain usable. The clear recommendation is max. 3 mm. If you find significant projection, consider replacing it with a shorter cylinder. 

• Security escutcheon in place? Check if a solid escutcheon (with cylinder cover/pull protection) is fitted and whether screws are not accessible or too short from the outside. Police and regional authorities recommend tested security escutcheons and provide lists of approved products. (Police advice) 

• Strike plate & frame: tap gently with your fist or a small hammer to test stability. If the strike plate is loose or fixed only with short screws, it can be forced open easily. Good screws penetrate deeply into the frame (at least 3–4 cm into solid wood or with proper wall anchors). 

• Hinges / hinge side: check if the hinges are firmly fixed and move smoothly. For outward-facing hinges, ensure security bolts are present. If missing, this side may present a weak spot. 

Next steps: If you discover projection, no escutcheon or a weak strike plate – arrange an appointment with a locksmith and use at least a cylinder with proper protection (DIN/VdS standard). Ideally, get local professional advice to know exactly what is needed to secure your door. 

Windows & Patio Doors
What to check?

• Handle lock: can the window handle be locked? Many burglaries happen through unsecured, tilted or incorrectly closed windows. 

• Fittings & locks: windows should lock at multiple points (mushroom-head fittings or similar). Look for missing or worn components. 

• Glass type: single glazing is far less secure than double glazing or safety glass. For particularly exposed entry points, use burglar-resistant glass or laminated safety glass (LSG). Police recommend securing windows just as consistently as doors. 

Next steps: For easily accessible windows, add retrofit solutions (window bolts, lockable handles). For new builds or replacements, pay attention to resistance class. 

Cellar & Side Entrances, Garage Door
What to check?

• Door strength & lock: cellar doors are often weak. Check the lock and frame. Essentially, the same requirements apply as to your front door. 

• Garage door: if the garage has an internal connection to your home, it’s a potential entry point. Secure the connecting door and garage with the same attention as the front door.

Other weak points often overlooked 

• Letterbox slot: very large openings allow manipulation with wire or tools. Older doors often have letter slots built into the door or side panel. If so, consider sealing it permanently and installing another model. 

• Shutters & controls: electric controls should be protected against tampering; shutters themselves can be levered open. There are special locks that can be fitted from inside, engaging directly with the shutter to prevent lifting. 

• Outdoor lighting & visibility: well-lit exterior areas and clear lines of sight (no dense hedges right at the entrance) reduce the risk considerably. Offenders prefer cover and darkness.

The Right Prioritisation – What to Do First?

If you do not find any glaring issues that need to be solved immediately, we suggest tackling changes in this order: 

• Front door: cylinder + security escutcheon + strike plate
• Ground-floor / easily accessible windows: lockable handles / mushroom-head fittings (in many cases easy to retrofit)
• Side entrances and garage
• Visibility and outdoor lighting 

Short term: replace screws in the strike plate, retrofit a lockable window handle, close shutters properly.


Medium term: retrofit a cylinder with VdS certification and a security escutcheon. VdS-tested components provide proven protection against drilling, forcing and sophisticated opening methods.

FAQ – Everything You Need to Know

About the Author

Lars Buchwald has been an integral part of the Multipick team since 2006, where he dedicates his passion and expertise to marketing and graphics. As a trained graphic designer and copywriter, he brings a wealth of experience and creativity to his work, which enables him to convey the messages of the ingenious tools in an appealing and convincing way. With a keen sense for the needs of the target group, he steers Multipick's marketing fortunes. His commitment is characterized by a high degree of sensitivity and the right richer at the right time. 

As a native of Bonn, Lars not only has close ties to the region, but has also firmly integrated his passion for marketing spear tools into his professional work. His attachment to the city is reflected in his work and gives his marketing campaigns an authentic, Bonn touch.

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