Can You Tell When The Locks To Your Home Have Been Tampered With? 4 Telltale Signs

One of the most chilling experiences is coming home to find obvious signs that someone else was trying to gain entry to your property. This is because your door and locking mechanism design ensure that only you and other authorized family members can get into your home without forcing your way. In other cases, it is not obvious that someone tried to get into your home, which allows the burglars to strike again. Here are some of the not-so-clear signs that someone might have tampered with the locks.

When the Lock Has Cuts and Scratches

It is okay for your door to get scratches and cuts from repeated use. However, if you notice cuts that weren't present, someone was using a tool to gain access to your home. You should know that such cuts are a sign that their tool of the trade was probably a sharp pick, and they could be back. So, get a locksmith to upgrade your lock to a more secure model.

Damages to the Lock Hardware

If the burglar was there long enough, they probably got to the lock and tried to tear it open. Hence, if you are keen on the inspection, you will notice signs of damage on the lock hardware. In such a case, check for pry marks on the door jams and holes in the locks. You should also check for bent door handles and other damages with a similar pattern. On the other hand, you might notice odd behaviors from the door lock, such as failure to open and trouble turning the keys in the lock cylinder. If you find signs of tampering or hardware damage, a locksmith can help you secure the compromised door by replacing the lock and adding a security layer like a deadbolt.

Lack of Signs of Forced Entry

On other occasions, you may not notice signs of forced entry, but it could mean someone could have tried to access your property and succeeded. In this case, you will find missing items, and you should treat this as an emergency and call the police. Often, it indicates that the burglar knows what they are doing and will be back. More so, in addition to investing in a secure locking system, you should add security cameras and other measures to ensure your family is safe.

Speak to a locksmith when you notice signs someone was trying to get into your property. They will find you within a short time and help secure your property. Remember, immediate response minimizes the chances of the criminals striking again and getting into your home.