You’re renovating. Exciting times. New kitchen, updated bathroom, maybe fixing that terrible 80s extension. But while you’re picking tapware and arguing about paint colours, there’s something else worth thinking about.
Security. And not after everything’s done – during the renovation.
Why It Makes Sense Now
Here’s the thing about security systems. Installing them after your renovation means cutting into those fresh walls you just paid to finish. Not ideal.
But right now? Your walls are open. Electricians are running cables everywhere. Adding security wiring is easy. Hidden. Cheap.
Wait until later and you’ll have visible cables or conduit running along your nice new walls. Plus you’ll pay someone to cut, patch, and repaint. Seems a bit silly when you could just do it now.
What’s Actually Worth Installing
Forget the fancy stuff. Most homes need pretty basic security:
Cameras – Stick them where people can see them. Front door, back door, maybe the side passage. Criminals don’t like being filmed.
Smart locks – Handy during renovations actually. Give your tiler a code for the week. Change it when they’re done. No more hiding keys under fake rocks.
Door and window sensors – Dead simple tech. Door opens when system’s armed? Alarm goes off.
Smoke detectors – Not exactly thrilling but insurance companies care. New ones connect to your phone which is pretty clever.
The main thing? Get it all wired in while the walls are open.
Renovations Are Risky Times
Let’s be honest. Your house is vulnerable during renovations. There’s expensive tools lying around. Different tradies coming and going. Maybe no proper front door for a week. Everyone driving past can see the place is empty at night.
Worth thinking about some temporary measures too. Even just locking up tools helps.
How to Plan It
Walk through your house before renovation starts. Think like a burglar (weird but useful). Where would you try to get in? That’s where cameras go.
Then chat with your builder:
- Where can cameras mount at the right height?
- Which doors and windows need sensors?
- Where should the alarm keypad go?
- Where will the main control box live?
Get them to coordinate with whoever’s doing the security install. Saves dramas later.
The Tech Side
Modern systems do some neat stuff:
- Check cameras from your phone
- Get alerts if someone’s poking around
- Let delivery drivers in remotely
- Turn lights on automatically
- Store footage online
But don’t get carried away with features. Basic systems work fine for most people.
Getting It Installed Properly
You could DIY after the renovation, but honestly? While the walls are open is the perfect time to get professionals in. They know what they’re doing. They’ll make sure it actually works. And they’ll do it while your builder’s already making a mess anyway.
Security specialists design systems properly. Take Leader Security – they’re not local to the Peninsula (to avoid any conflict of interest) but they’re a good example of companies that do security and nothing else. That focused expertise matters when you’re protecting your home.
Easy Mistakes to Avoid
People stuff this up all the time:
Leaving it too late – Walls closed up? You’ve missed the easy option.
Forgetting the shed – Where do you keep the mower? Exactly. Criminals know too.
Buying rubbish cameras – Fuzzy footage of a blob isn’t helpful when someone’s nicked your bike.
No backup power – Blackouts happen. Security should keep working.
Not asking about insurance – Some companies give discounts for monitored systems. Worth checking.
Actually Getting It Done
Simple steps:
- Add security to your renovation plans early
- Get quotes when you’re getting other quotes
- Budget maybe 3-5% of renovation cost
- Book installation while construction’s happening
- Test everything works before the plasterer arrives
That’s really it. Not complicated. Just needs thinking about early instead of late.
Worth Doing Properly
You’re already spending decent money on this renovation. You’re already dealing with trades and mess and decisions about drawer handles.
Adding security while it’s all happening? Just makes sense. Do it now while it’s straightforward. Or do it later when it’s expensive and annoying.
I know which I’d pick.
