Is Your Ottawa Home Really Secure? 6 Overlooked Weak Spots That Burglars Notice First

July 10, 2025

Think your home is safe? Discover the most overlooked security weak spots in Ottawa homes—and how City Locksmith can help you secure them.

A man is breaking into a window with a crowbar.

Most Break-Ins Aren’t Random—They’re Targeted

In Ottawa, many homeowners believe their home is secure simply because their doors are locked. But burglars look for small, easy-to-miss details that give them quick access. Here are six common weak spots you might not even realize are putting your home at risk.


1. Weak Door Frames

Even with a strong deadbolt, a weak or hollow door frame can be kicked open in seconds. We recommend reinforcing the strike plate and using longer screws to strengthen the entire frame.


2. Unsecured Patio Doors

Sliding patio doors are one of the easiest entry points for intruders. If you don’t have a secondary lock or security bar, you're leaving a major gap in your home's defenses.


3. Garage Entry Doors

The door from your garage into your home is often forgotten—but it should be just as secure as your front door. Install a deadbolt and consider upgrading to a smart lock.


4. Hidden Spare Keys

Burglars know all the common hiding spots—under the mat, in the mailbox, behind the planter. Ditch the spare key and install a smart lock or keyless entry system instead.


5. Old Locks

If your locks haven’t been changed in over five years, they may be outdated or worn. Rekeying or upgrading to high-security locks is a fast and cost-effective way to increase protection.


6. Poor Outdoor Lighting

A dark entryway or backyard gives intruders the perfect cover. Motion-sensor lighting and visible cameras are excellent deterrents.


Time for a Home Security Check-Up?

City Locksmith offers affordable home lock upgrades, smart lock installations, and complete home security assessments. Whether you live in a downtown condo or a suburban home, we’ll help you feel safe and secure.

Call now to book your home security consultation.

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In today’s world, ensuring your home is secure is more important than ever. Whether you're moving into a new home or simply looking to upgrade your current security system, there are steps you can take to protect what matters most. At City Lock, we specialize in offering locksmith services and expert advice on how to keep your home safe. Below, we share five essential tips to boost your home security. Upgrade to High-Security Locks Many homes still use traditional locks that can be easily picked or tampered with. Consider upgrading to high-security locks that offer enhanced protection. Smart locks, deadbolts, or keyless entry systems are harder for burglars to bypass and offer more robust defense. Ask your locksmith about the latest in lock technology to keep your home as secure as possible. Install Security Cameras Adding security cameras to your home’s exterior is a great deterrent for burglars. Not only do they act as a visible warning, but they also provide valuable footage should anything suspicious happen. Modern cameras can be integrated with your smartphone, allowing you to monitor your home from anywhere. Reinforce Entry Points Doors and windows are the most common entry points for intruders. Reinforcing them with stronger materials, adding security bars, or installing window sensors can make a significant difference. Ensure that all doors have sturdy frames and high-quality locks, while windows should have locking mechanisms that are difficult to manipulate. Don’t Forget About Garage Security Your garage door is another vulnerable point of entry. Many homeowners overlook this area, but it’s just as important to secure as your front door. Invest in a reliable garage door opener with rolling codes or smart functionality, and ensure that your interior door from the garage to your home is also securely locked. Schedule a Professional Security Assessment One of the best ways to ensure your home is fully secure is to schedule a professional security assessment with a trusted locksmith. At City Lock, our team can assess your property, identify weak points, and recommend the best solutions to improve your overall security. Protect What Matters Most Your home should be a place of comfort and safety, and City Lock is here to help you achieve that. Whether you need new locks installed, are considering a security upgrade, or want to know more about advanced locksmith solutions, our team is just a call away. Let us help you protect what matters most.