What Entry Points in Your Home Have Doors Leading from Outside to Inside?

When filling out your Fortify Form after purchasing your Fortify Plan, it’s essential to identify all the entry points in your home that have doors leading from outside to inside. Every entry point can be a potential security vulnerability, and understanding these locations allows you to receive personalized recommendations to secure your home. From the front door to lesser-known access points like the basement door or fire escape, here’s a breakdown of common entry points to help you complete your Fortify Form accurately.

1. Front Door

The front door is typically the main entry point into your home and is often a focus for home security. It’s important to ensure that this door is secured with sturdy locks, such as deadbolts or smart locks, and that it’s made from durable materials.

Security Tips for the Front Door:

• Install a smart lock for keyless entry and remote access.
• Reinforce the door frame with a strike plate to prevent forced entry.

If your home has a front door, be sure to note this in your Fortify Form so your security plan can focus on this primary entry point.

2. Back Door

A back door is often a secondary access point into the home, leading to a backyard, garden, or alleyway. This door is typically out of sight from the street, making it a target for potential intruders.

Security Considerations for the Back Door:

• Ensure that the back door has a strong deadbolt or keyed lock.
• Consider installing motion-activated lighting to deter nighttime intruders.

If you have a back door, include it in your Fortify Form for specific recommendations to protect this often-overlooked entry point.

3. Side Door

Many homes also have a side door, often used for easy access to the driveway or garage. Like the back door, this entry point may be less visible, making it vulnerable.

Side Door Security Tips:

• Install a security camera or lighting near the side door to monitor activity.
• Ensure the door has a proper lock, such as a deadbolt or electronic lock.

If your home has a side door, include this information in your Fortify Form so your security plan addresses this hidden entry point.

4. Patio/Balcony Door

A patio or balcony door offers access to outdoor living areas but can also provide easy entry for intruders if not properly secured. Sliding glass doors and French doors are common choices for patios and balconies but may need additional security measures.

Security for Patio and Balcony Doors:

• Install a sliding bolt lock or multipoint lock for added protection.
• Use security bars or install shatterproof glass for sliding doors.

If your home includes a patio or balcony door, make sure to include this in your Fortify Form to receive customized recommendations for securing this outdoor entry point.

5. Windows as Entry Points

Windows are another common access point for potential intruders, especially on the ground floor or in areas where the window is easily accessible. Windows that are left unlocked or not properly secured can become a weak point in home security.

Tips for Securing Windows:

• Use window locks or security film to reinforce windows.
• Consider installing window sensors as part of a home security system.

Include all windows as entry points in your Fortify Form to ensure they are accounted for in your home security strategy.

6. Living Room Door

In some homes, the living room has a door that leads directly to the outside, providing easy access to the home’s main gathering space.

Living Room Door Security:

• Ensure that the living room door has a strong lock and possibly a peephole or camera.
• Install curtains or blinds to limit visibility into the home.

If your living room has an exterior door, be sure to include this in your Fortify Form.

7. Dining Room Door

Like the living room, a dining room door may provide outdoor access, particularly in homes with a patio or garden adjacent to the dining area.

Dining Room Door Security:

• Install a deadbolt lock or smart lock on the dining room door to ensure it’s secure when not in use.
• Consider using window covers or drapes to enhance privacy.

Include the dining room door in your Fortify Form for tailored recommendations.

8. Kitchen Door

The kitchen door is often a frequently used entry point, especially in homes where the kitchen leads to an outdoor area like a patio, garden, or garage.

Security for Kitchen Doors:

• Install a keyed lock or smart lock on the kitchen door to secure this high-traffic entry point.
• Consider adding a security camera near the door for added monitoring.

If your kitchen has an exterior door, include this in your Fortify Form.

9. Bedroom Door

In some homes, a bedroom door may lead directly outside, particularly if the bedroom is located on the ground floor or connected to a balcony.

Security Considerations for Bedroom Doors:

• Use a deadbolt lock or smart lock for enhanced security on the bedroom door.
• Ensure privacy with window treatments or blinds.

If your bedroom has an exterior door, include this in your Fortify Form for security planning.

10. Laundry Room Door

A laundry room door may provide external access to the side or back of the house, often used for convenience when handling laundry.

Security for Laundry Room Doors:

• Ensure the laundry room door has a lock and is properly secured, as it may be less frequently monitored.
• Consider adding motion-activated lighting for added security.

Include the laundry room door in your Fortify Form.

11. Home Office/Study Door

For those who work from home, a home office door leading outside can be a valuable entry point, providing direct access to the workspace without going through the rest of the house.

Home Office Entry Security:

• Install a smart lock for ease of access and additional security.
• Consider installing a security camera or sensor to monitor activity around the door.

If your home office or study has an exterior door, be sure to include this in your Fortify Form.

12. Family/Rec Room Door

A family room door or rec room door may lead to a patio or backyard, providing easy access to outdoor spaces.

Security for Family Room Doors:

• Use a deadbolt lock or keypad entry system for secure access.
• Consider adding window coverings for privacy.

If your family or rec room has an exterior door, include this in your Fortify Form.

13. Garage Entry

The garage door is one of the largest entry points into a home, making it a critical focus for security.

Garage Entry Security Tips:

• Install a smart lock or electronic lock on the garage entry door.
• Use motion-activated lights to deter intruders.

Make sure to include your garage entry in your Fortify Form for enhanced security measures.

14. Basement Door

The basement door is often overlooked but can provide a hidden entry point for intruders. Securing the basement is crucial for comprehensive home security.

Security for Basement Doors:

• Use a deadbolt lock or sliding bolt lock for secure access.
• Consider installing a sensor or alarm for added protection.

If your home has a basement door, be sure to include it in your Fortify Form.

15. Loft Entry

For homes with lofts, there may be an entry point leading to a balcony or roof. It’s important to secure this access point as well.

Loft Entry Security:

• Install a keyed lock or smart lock for security.
• Ensure any windows or balcony access points are properly secured.

If your loft has an exterior entry point, include this in your Fortify Form.

16. Fire Escape

A fire escape door provides an emergency exit from your home, often leading to an outdoor staircase or ladder. While this door must remain accessible for safety reasons, it still needs to be secured.

Fire Escape Door Security:

• Use an emergency exit lock that can be opened from the inside but still provides security against external access.
• Regularly check that the fire escape is clear and functional.

If your home has a fire escape, make sure to note this in your Fortify Form to ensure it is included in your home security plan.