Spring in Highlands Ranch is the right time for a 30-minute home security checkup. Door alignment shifts after winter freezes, smart-lock batteries are usually at half-life, and outdoor activity (gardening, BBQs, pool openings) means doors get left unlocked more often. Here's the checklist we walk through during our free home security assessment.

Front Door

Test deadbolt — throws fully without binding, retracts without sticking
Check strike plate screws — should be 3" (not the builder-default 1"). $65 upgrade we install in 20 minutes
Inspect door frame for cracks or pry marks (winter storms loosen frames)
Replace smart-lock batteries (lithium AA, see our altitude battery guide)
Test peephole / video doorbell view

Back Door & Patio Slider

Test sliding patio door latch — lock should engage cleanly
Add or test anti-jimmy bar / charley bar — the $95 upgrade that defeats lift-off attacks
Check window sash locks on adjacent windows
Inspect screen-door latches

Garage

Side-entry walk-through door — rekey if you can't verify all key copies
Interior mudroom deadbolt — if builder-grade, consider high-security upgrade
Garage opener remotes — if pre-2010 (no rolling code), replace with current-gen
Test the manual override release on the overhead door

Windows

Test all operable window locks — mid-spring is when they're most actively used
Second-floor windows with kids: confirm child-safety opening control devices are working
Basement egress windows: confirm quick-release is functional (Colorado building code)
Inspect window well covers — winter snow may have damaged or shifted them

Outdoor Vulnerabilities

Hidden keys — flowerpots, doormats, fake rocks. We always find at least one. Remove them.
Motion-light coverage — check bulbs, replace if dim
Security camera angles — trim spring foliage that's blocking views
Garage opener visibility from street — if homeowners have a wireless keypad outside, check the cover

Schedule a Free 45-Minute Walkthrough

For owner-occupied Highlands Ranch homes, our security assessment is free. We bring the checklist, walk every entry point with you, and leave you with a written upgrade plan in priority order. No upsell pressure. Call (720) 299-9964 to schedule.