Have you been burned by false advertising for a vacation rental? Are you new and unsure about Airbnb or house sharing? There’s a lot to consider before hitting the “Book” button on a listing. Because Schlage is concerned about your security no matter where you’re living, we give you 12 safety questions to ask before booking your next vacation home.

Before we get to the questions, try these two suggestions to help you come to a final decision about safety. First, read the property’s reviews. If the neighborhood was a bit scary or the house was unsafe, most past visitors will make a point of including that in their evaluation.

Next, use the street view option on Google maps. “Drive” around and start to determine if you’d feel safe in the area, if there are restaurants and stores you want to visit and if there’s nearby construction that might disrupt your holiday.

12 vacation rental security questions

1. Does your host have a personal picture on their booking profile?

You want to be able to recognize the property manager or host by sight, especially if they’re going to meet you at the house. Dog pictures are cute, but you want to see the person, not the pup.

2. Are there working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors?

A 2018 study found that 80 percent of Airbnb properties had smoke alarms. Less than half had CO detectors. The safest practice is to treat a rental property like your own home. At a minimum, you want smoke detectors in the kitchen and bedrooms.

3. Are there working fire extinguishers?

That same 2018 study found that less than half of Airbnb properties stocked working fire extinguishers. If you plan to cook while on vacation, a fire extinguisher is always good to have in the kitchen.

4. Does the property meet local safety regulations?

If local regulations require properties to have a smoke detector and it’s missing, that’s a red flag. Not only will smoke alarms make the rental safer in the event of a fire, but the lack of one could be a sign that the property manager is sub-par at best and dangerously negligent at worst.

5. Is there a first aid kit?

If you need a fire extinguisher, you’ve probably had a larger incident, but a first aid kit is good to have available for even the most minor mishaps. Because sometimes you just need a bandaid.

6. Are there smart locks? Who else has a key to the property?

Being able to control who has access to the vacation rental is important to your security and that of your belongings. When the property manager uses smart locks, it’s less likely that a previous guest will still have a key to the house. The manager might also be able to monitor when access codes are used, alerting them to something out of the ordinary that might be a risk to you.

7. Are there security cameras?

Some of us like the idea of security camera that can be monitored by the property manager and some of us are put off by it. Whatever your preference, it’s good to know if the property has cameras, who’s keeping an eye on them and what to do in the event of a break-in.

8. Is there an alarm system?

Like smart locks, having an alarm system on the property can add additional security to you and your belongings. If there is a system, ask the manager about codes to turn it on and off, and what happens if it gets triggered. Will the police be notified directly or will you be required to report the alarm?

9. Are there working street lights? Is the neighborhood safe to walk in at night alone?

If you’re concerned about the neighborhood, these questions will give you some insight as to what to expect. For the same reason you put security lights on your garage at home, you want to feel comfortable outside your rental property at any time of day or night.

10. Who do I call in an emergency?

If something happens on the property – a break-in, fire, injury – you’ll need to have accurate contact info. Get phone numbers and addresses for local police and hospitals. Also double-check that you have correct contact information for the host and find out who to text or call during off-business hours. Of course, 911 is always an option and, in some cases, your best one.

11. What amenities are available for my baby/elderly parent/handicapped travel companion?

If you have kids, you might ask if there are baby gates, childproof locks on cabinets or gates to restrict pool access. Also ask if there are stairs, handicapped railings in the bathroom and other necessary accommodations if you or your party has mobility concerns.

12. What else matters to me for safety?

As one Airbnb host pointed out, we all have different ideas of what a “safe neighborhood” is, so ask direct questions to get to the heart of what matters to you. Will I be approached by people on the street asking for money? Are there factories nearby that emit chemicals (particularly important for longer stays or if you’re concerned about smelly fumes)? These are direct inquiries that most property managers will be able to answer.

Once you’ve confidently booked your holiday getaway, make sure your own home is protected while you’re away. Take these home security steps before leaving for vacation and find more safety tips at Schlage.com/blog.

We’re turning 100! Over 10 weeks, Schlage is sharing its favorite top-10 lists. That’s 100 tips, ideas and moments of inspiration so you can enjoy the safety, simplicity and style of Schlage for another 100 years to come.

Do you know how secure your home is? It’s easy to overlook the obvious when you’re staring at the same walls every day. And it’s tempting to fall into risky habits when you’re just trying to make it through another busy week. Take control of your safety – and that of your family and house – with these 10 home security audit checkpoints.

1. Locks

Your exterior door deadbolts are key to your line of defense against burglars. During your home security audit, assess what kind of lock you have and if it fits your needs, verify that it’s in good working order and figure out if all exterior doors are keyed alike. If your deadbolts don’t provide the security you need, consider upgrading to a more durable option or one like a Schlage smart lock that allows you to control home access from anywhere.

Read more: Increase your door security with the right deadbolt lock.

2. Keys

Especially if you’ve lived in your home for a long time, you may have lost track of who has a spare key. Or maybe your kids misplaced a spare. Or maybe that fake rock isn’t where you thought you left it. The audit is a good time to take inventory. If you can’t account for all the spares, consider replacing your locks or having them rekeyed.

3. Security system

If you have a security system, make sure the settings are up-to-date for your lifestyle, that only the appropriate people have the codes and that batteries, if required, are fresh. Consider changing passcodes and pairing your security system with smart home devices for greater security.

4. Access points

Doors and windows are both tempting entry points for intruders. Evaluate the material and condition of your door – solid core wood or steel doors are typically best – and check your windows for cracks, weak frames and broken latches. Consider installing shatter-proof glass both in traditional windows or those inset in doors. Realign and tighten door hinges.

Read more: How to choose replacement hinges.

5. Plants

Greenery does wonders for your curb appeal, but shrubs can also create hiding places for intruders and tree branches can fall on your roof or car. Keep bushes and trees trimmed, especially those around windows, doors and gates.

6. House numbers

House numbers that can be read easily from the street make it easier for emergency responders to locate your home. Remove tree limbs that may be obstructing the numbers or install new ones nearer the street, such as on your mailbox or a planter.

7. Garage

If you have a detached garage, make sure locks are in proper working order. This includes side entrances, not just where you pull your car in. Run the same checks here as you do for the exterior of your home. If you have an attached garage, do you have a deadbolt on the entryway leading to the home? Also consider updating any access codes if your garage has a keypad. If you store toxic chemicals or dangerous tools in your garage, make sure they are secured and out of reach of kids and pets.

8. Detectors and safety devices

Check that all bedrooms, kitchens and garages, at a minimum, have working smoke detectors. Carbon monoxide detectors are also a good idea, and both of these should have fresh batteries. Your audit is also a prime time for installing or checking fire extinguishers, first-aid kits and other safety devices around the home.

9. Daily behavior

Evaluate your own behavior. Do you lock your doors every time, even when you’re home? Do you make it too obvious that the house is empty when you’re on vacation? Find the weak spots in your own daily routines and take steps to correct them.

Read more: Home security steps you should take before leaving for vacation.

10. Family member roles

Make sure everyone in the house – from kids to grandparents – know how to keep the home secure. Everyone should know how to lock doors and windows, who is permitted access to the home and what to do in the event of an emergency.

We recommend completing an audit at various times of year – perhaps every six months – and during the day and night each time. That will help you to uncover any weak spots you might not have noticed in the daylight or when there are leaves on the branches in the spring.

After each security audit, you might have improvements to make. Consider all your options when making updates. Replacing the light bulb over your garage is simple, but installing a motion-activated flood light or camera could enhance your security even more. Simply replacing your front door lock with another that’s the same but new could be enough. But you might also enjoy upgrading to a smart lock. Try our Get Help Deciding Tool to find out which Schlage smart lock is right for your home.

For more ideas on how to improve your home’s security, visit our blog archive or ask us your questions on Twitter and Facebook.

10-Step New Home Security Checklist

Review our security checklist before and after you move to protect your home and family.

1. Change all of the locks as soon as possible. For superior in-home security, install Schlage deadbolts and front entry handlesets. Nearly all of Schlage’s products are rated Best in Security, Durability and Finish by the BHMA, meaning you can trust your hardware to protect your new home and everything in it.
   
   
2. If the house has a security system, change the access codes immediately and notify any alarm service of the new ownership. The same goes for a smart lock that came with the home as well as your garage keypad. Change their codes ASAP.
   
   
3. Tour your new home and property and look for weak links in your home's defenses such as missing deadbolts on exterior doors, flimsy door and window locks, and lack of outdoor lighting. Every entry door, including the door linking your garage and house, should have a Schlage deadbolt.
   
   
4. As part of your home security audit , check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. You want one in each bedroom, the kitchen and the garage, at a minimum. If they aren’t already installed, add them. If they are old or not functioning properly, replace them. Even if they’re in pristine condition, it can’t hurt to replace the batteries.
   
   
5. Add, service or replace fire extinguishers. Also, learn how to use them. You don’t want to be reading the instructions for the first time when there are flames on the stove.
   
   
6. Consider your perimeter security. Walk around your yard at different times of the day to judge lighting and shadows. Think about how you will enter and exit the home from different doorways and consider upgrades from smart lighting systems and sensors to simply increasing the wattage of existing bulbs.
   
   
7. Locate plumbing, electrical and HVAC valves and controls. Many new-home DIY projects require you to turn off the power or the water before replacing light fixtures or faucets, for example. It’s also good to know where they are in case of unexpected flooding or other malfunctions.
   
   
8. Find out the phone numbers and locations of the emergency services that serve your area.
   
   
9. When you move in, join your local Neighborhood Watch.
   
   
10. Update your insurance coverage. This obviously includes your homeowner’s policy, but see if any adjustments can be made to car insurance, too. Do you have a garage instead of street parking now? Maybe your commute to work is shorter? These things can sometimes lower your premium.

Your new home deserves the latest technology

Installing the latest in smart home technology can help improve your home’s security and energy efficiency. Combined, that gives you peace of mind, added everyday convenience and more money in your pocket, always a good thing after buying a new home. When choosing a Schlage smart lock, it’s worth the time to investigate which other devices and smart home hubs they work with so that you can easily and seamlessly control everything from lights to your thermostat, locks and maybe even the coffeemaker.

See which Schlage smart lock is the right fit for your home and the technology you already have with our Get Help Deciding Tool.

It can be easy to overlook details – some of them obvious, others less so – when you’re in the middle of a move. Try our Moving Checklist to make sure you have everything covered, from security to pet and child care to creating a relaxation oasis in the midst of it all.

You need your home to change with your lifestyle, and nothing changes as quickly as your kids. Wouldn’t it be nice if there were a few shortcuts you could take to keep everyone safe and stress-free?

Here’s a tip that will help no matter what stage your family is at: Try Schlage Custom™ Door Hardware. Its combined interior functionality makes it an ideal lock for curious toddlers, busy adults and everyone in between.

Those of us who have toddlers know that you have to be flexible. Naptime doesn’t always go as planned. Healthy veggies don’t always get eaten. Sometimes your hair doesn’t get washed. You can worry about it or you can roll with the punches. But sometimes you can plan ahead to avoid the stress altogether. Schlage Custom Door Hardware is one of those times.

How do I prevent my toddler from locking doors?

With their innovative chassis – that’s the interior component of a lock – Schlage Custom knobs and levers let you switch between locking and non-locking functions without replacing the entire lock. That gives you the flexibility you need for your curious little one without extra effort on your part.

Picture this. Your toddler has a tendency to shut themselves in a room. Maybe they think they’re being funny. Maybe they’re protesting carrots. Jokes aside, this can be dangerous. You might not even realize they’ve locked themselves in a room, making it extra risky in the event of a fire or other emergency. When your Schlage Custom Door Hardware is set to the non-locking function, Tiny Tim can’t lock himself in. You can easily and safely retrieve him.

Now flash forward 10 or 15 years. Tim isn’t so tiny anymore and everyone would like a bit more privacy. Simply switch your hardware to the locking function by installing the privacy pin. This is a convenient and affordable option for any room but especially bathrooms, bedrooms and even home offices. Switching back to the non-locking function if you change your mind or your lifestyle changes is simple, too.

What happens if I need to unlock the door from the outside?

Whether it’s because of a sneaky toddler or just a simple mistake, you can still gain entry to a room locked from the inside using the emergency unlock tool. No more removing door knobs or trying to cajole your tike into letting you in. Each Schlage Custom Door Hardware package comes with one, and our FAQ and video show you how it works.

How can I keep my toddler safe in their room?

Having the right locks for toddlers is just one part of keeping them safe. You might also opt for a knob instead of a lever. The same thing that makes levers so appealing for some, particularly those with arthritic hands, can make them frustrating for parents of mini escape artists. A door knob may be just difficult enough for your toddler to operate, keeping them from sneaking out a back door or down to the basement.

The type of door you choose can also add a layer of security. Dutch doors were originally designed to keep livestock out of the house while still being able to open the home to fresh breezes. In the same way, a Dutch door can keep your little one in an area while still allowing you to keep an eye on them from the next room over. Although it’s not traditional, you can install a Dutch door on a playroom, bedroom or other interior space for perfect convenience and safety.

Other ideas include motion sensors or video monitors that can send notifications to your phone when they detect something out of the ordinary. Some of these products are designed with baby monitoring in mind, but you could use any number of connected devices for an extra dose of peace of mind. Then, when you no longer need the camera to keep an eye on your kiddo, you can repurpose it for another location such as in the mailbox.

Learn more about Schlage Custom Door Hardware and find a retailer at Schlage.com. You can also find step-by-step instructions for how to install Schlage Custom Door Hardware on our blog.

When it comes to choosing the best exterior door hardware, there are many factors to consider to ensure the right fit for the style and security of your home. Choosing a new deadbolt and front door handleset may not be as simple as picking up whatever is available on the shelf. Make sure you do your homework and especially avoid these seven pitfalls when purchasing exterior door hardware.

1. Not thinking about security

The number one concern on your mind when it comes to deadbolts and handlesets should be security. Not all deadbolts are created equal. Be sure to look for the highest security grade possible – a AAA for best in residential Security, Durability and Finish – to ensure the quality and durability of your lockset. For more information, check out our guide to security grades.

2. Going for the most affordable option

When it comes to securing your home, this is one time you don't want to save a few bucks if it means sacrificing quality and durability. An investment now will save you money and peace of mind in the long run. Research the safety ratings as discussed above and find out whether or not your new product would be covered by a warranty in the event it stops functioning properly or the finish begins to corrode. At Schlage, we offer a lifetime limited mechanical and finish warranty and a 3-year limited electronics warranty.

3. Not considering the features and benefits

Beyond a manufacturer's warranty, there are other things you should look for in your door hardware to make sure it's the right fit for you. Is it easy to install on your own or will you have to hire a locksmith? Does it guarantee other security features like a built-in alarm? Is there a wide variety of designs so you don't have to sacrifice style to get the best security?

4. Not optimizing for your lifestyle

Deadbolts and handlesets have come a long way in recent years. Not only can they secure your home, but they now offer the ability to add greater peace of mind and convenience to your day-to-day life. For homeowners that are constantly on the go, a smart lock may be the best choice for you. If you're interested in smart home living, you can also opt for an electronic deadbolt that works with other smart devices in your home, making it easier than ever to feel safe and secure. Find out which smart lock is right for you and your family’s lifestyle.

5. Ignoring existing accents and hardware

The style and finish of your door hardware can go a long way in tying your entire home together. Look to existing fixtures like lighting or architectural accents for inspiration. For example, the clean lines of a Scandinavian-inspired home pairs perfectly with a contemporary Schlage Century handleset. Or look to a Schlage Brookshire handleset if your home has a more traditional Victorian or Georgian style. Your front door is the perfect opportunity to introduce your personal style before guests step foot inside.

6. Choosing the wrong finish for your climate

Where you live can affect the lifespan of your hardware as well. For example, in coastal climates some finishes are more likely to tarnish than others. Be sure to research the materials used in your lock to decide which is the best fit for your home.

7. Forgetting to check the handing on levers

Finally, you may think you can pick up any lever off the shelf. To avoid installing it upside down, pay attention to the handing of the lever versus which side of your door it will be on.

Have other questions about your exterior door hardware? Visit our FAQs or ask us on Facebook or Twitter.

1. Choose a secure access code

When choosing an access code for your smart lock, choose a combination that you are able to remember but cannot be easily guessed by others. Follow best practices for secure access codes: don’t have repeat numbers and use a long code instead of short. All four Schlage smart locks – Schlage Encode Plus™ Smart WiFi Deadbolt, Schlage Encode™ Smart WiFi Deadbolt, Schlage Sense™ Smart Deadbolt and Schlage Connect™ Smart Deadbolt – accept codes from four to eight digits long. The length can be selected during lock setup.

Keeping track of all the user codes you've set up and knowing whether or not you've deactivated outdated ones is key to keeping your lock secure. Keep track of these codes through the Schlage Home app or store your codes in a spreadsheet or notepad in a secure location.

2. Keep an eye on the battery life

Each of the Schlage smart locks gives a low battery warning well in advance of the battery dying. Low battery warnings can be found on the lock or in the Schlage Home app if you’ve paired it with your compatible deadbolt. While you'll have plenty of time to make the switch, it's important not to put this off too long to avoid being locked out.

3. Find a home for the backup mechanical key

In the event that your battery does die before you are able to change it, all of Schlage's smart locks come equipped with a reliable backup, such as a mechanical key or a 9V battery. Be sure to place these backups in a secure location that can be accessed when you need them.

4. Lock your smartphone

Whether you use the Schlage Home app to control your Schlage Encode Plus, Schlage Encode or Schlage Sense Smart Deadbolt or another compatible app for Schlage Connect Smart Deadbolt, be sure to set up a pass code on your device. Smartphone apps allow you to lock and unlock your deadbolt from anywhere, so it’s important to keep them secure.

5. Maintain a strong door

No matter how smart your deadbolt is, if your door is warped or the jamb is cracked, you may not be as secure as you want to be. Periodically check that your door is in good condition. Find more front door essentials with this list of 10 must-haves for security and style.

6. Leverage safety features

Schlage’s smart locks come equipped with additional features designed to keep your home safe. Whether or not you choose to embrace remote connectivity in your lock, you can still take advantage of unique features such as built-in alarm technology and auto-lock. With the built-in alarm, you can set your deadbolt to alert you any time the lock is tampered with or a significant amount of force is applied to the door. With auto-lock, you can rest easy knowing your lock is set to automatically lock after a chosen period of time. No more worrying if you locked the door on your way out.

For interactive instructions and tips for setting up each of these features, visit our FAQ section or check out our videos on YouTube.

1. People in and out of your home

When you’re selling a home, people are coming and going constantly. Whether it is the realtor showing prospective buyers around or service providers coming to make repairs or clean, it’s impossible for you to be home every time someone needs to get in. Instead of leaving your door unlocked or leaving a key under a plant, a smart lock can keep your house secure while still allowing access to those you trust. You can use an app to program new access codes into the lock, even setting schedules for when those codes can be used. And because you’re notified when they are used, you can keep a better eye on who is in your house and when.

2. What buyers look for

Smart home devices are becoming more in demand and expected for buyers. In a 2018 survey, Coldwell Banker Real Estate found that smart home devices and other technology are integral to helping homes sell faster and for more money. A vast majority of the survey’s respondents said they expect certain smart devices to be pre-installed before even moving in. Topping the list were smart thermostats (77%) and fire detectors (75%). Sixty-three percent of respondents expected smart locks to be pre-installed.

And by the way, The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) found in 2018 that three out of four millennials – the largest generational group of home buyers – were willing to pay $1,500 to $4,000 to make their homes smarter. Think how that investment can pay off for you.

Finally, as we move forward through 2020 and beyond, consider the idea that many people may be looking for touchless technology in greater numbers. Not only is it convenient for those times when your hands are full, but it can also be more sanitary when you’re trying to keep hands clean and germ-free.

3. Curb appeal

The first impression is sometimes the only impression when it comes to a potential buyer. While there are plenty of major upgrades that will increase your curb appeal, updating front door hardware is one of the easiest and most noticeable improvements you can make. Use the product selector to find the perfect door hardware for your home and refresh the front of your house in minutes.

Have you already gone keyless or are ready to make the switch? Share with us on Instagram or Facebook why you are going keyless with Schlage or check out our Get Help Deciding Tool to see which smart lock works best for your home.

Smart locks

Two Schlage smart lock features may be particularly helpful to you right now: keyless access and remote monitoring. With gyms closed and restrictions on where we can go, many of us are heading outdoors for exercise and healthy distraction. Whether you’re going for a walk with the dog or taking the kids on a bike ride, you might not want to carry house keys with you. An access code allows you to conveniently lock and unlock your door at the lock’s touchscreen without a key. Don’t worry about loading up your pockets or losing the key and not being able to get in touch with a locksmith.

You can also monitor your smart lock through your smartphone when it’s connected to your home network. The Schlage Encode™ Smart WiFi Deadbolt and Schlage Sense™ Smart Deadbolt both have a built-in alarm. If there’s a disturbance at the door, you’ll receive a notification through the Schlage Home app, no matter where you are. Be sure your Schlage Sense lock is set up for remote access.

If you want to receive a push notification or need to view an activity log when certain access codes are used, the app can do that as well. Use this feature with a lock on your own home or on a family member’s if they live elsewhere but have granted you access to their lock status.

Mechanical and electronic locks

This tip is as straight-forward as they come: Make sure you lock the doors. No matter what kind of lock you have, if you don’t use it, then it can’t keep your home safe. The same goes for windows, sliding patio doors and garage doors. And while you’re at it, find a better place for spare keys. That fake rock is not your friend.

Video doorbells

There’s been a serious uptick in home deliveries with people sheltering in place. If you have a video doorbell, you can see when your groceries or other orders are being delivered directly to your door. The Ring Video Doorbell 2 works with the Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt, so you can see who’s on your porch, then lock or unlock your door for trusted deliveries without coming to the door yourself.

Motion-activated devices

Make sure your motion-activated devices are working and in areas where you need them most. This can include cameras and outdoor lighting. Some prime locations are on your front porch and garage, near gates and back decks, and even inside your mailbox. Remember that well-lit areas frequently deter unwanted visitors from even attempting entry.

Security systems

If you already have a security system, make sure it’s turned on. You may want to activate it even when you’re in the house if it makes you feel safer or when you want to keep tabs on the kids if they’re prone to sneaking out the door. Take time to make sure you’re using all the appropriate features, too. Investigate options for connecting it to your smart home automation system or, if it’s monitored by an outside party, ask about additional services that might be available.

While these tips might bring you greater peace of mind during this stressful time, they’re good everyday habits to develop regardless of the situation. If you’re wondering about other ways you can use your smart devices, check out these smart home tricks you might be missing. We also have some resources for creating a calming home and routines you can set to help keep your family healthy.

Smart home technology isn't just for adding convenience or efficiency to your home. There's also the benefit of a greater peace of mind as you step up security. There are many ways smart home technology makes your home more secure, and as technology evolves, getting the right fit for you and your home is easier than ever.

One of the great things about smart home security today is the ability to customize it based on your lifestyle and budget. Gone are the days when you had to rely on a company to install your system and pay them to monitor it for you. That’s still an option, of course. But if you’re comfortable monitoring your own system, current technology allows you to do just that by syncing your various devices – smart locks, lights, cameras, doorbells – to your smartphone, often through a smart hub. In this case, a home security company won’t alert authorities if it detects a threat, but you’ll receive a notification directly and can notify police or fire departments if necessary.

Here are some of the ways smart is becoming synonymous with secure.

1. Deter criminals

Smart home technology can often turn criminals away before they even have a chance to breach your home. Visible cameras and motion-censored lights deter unwelcome guests looking for easy entry. Smart locks also ensure there's no spare key making it quick and easy for an intruder to get in the door. Smart indoor lighting and entertainment systems can be programmed to turn on at random times to make it appear as though someone is home.

2. Check in

Whether you're just a few miles away at work or halfway around the world on vacation, smart home systems often allow you to check in remotely. Pull up a live camera feed to see if anyone is lurking outside or check in on your smart lock to confirm it’s safely locked, all from your smartphone.

Schlage smart locks are compatible with a variety of other smart devices, making it easier than ever to monitor your home from anywhere. Learn more about our recent integration between the Schlage Encode™ Smart WiFi Deadbolt and Ring Video Doorbell – and see what other smart systems our newest lock is compatible with – here.

3. Receive alerts

Greater security in the home also means knowing when any unusual activity occurs. With a connected smart lock and motion-activated sensors, you can program your home automation system to send you alerts any time someone attempts to gain access.

Safety is not just about burglary, though. Many smart home systems can also detect and warn you in the event of fire or smoke, carbon monoxide, flooding and freezing. Depending on your security system – whether you’ve opted to have professional monitoring or do it yourself – the system might even alert emergency dispatch for you. If you’re asking, “I already have a smoke detector, so what’s the big deal?” consider that some of these monitoring systems can be so specific as to tell you if the fire is in the kids’ bedroom or the leak is in the guest bathroom.

Does this sound like the solution for you? Check out the Schlage Connect™ Smart Deadbolt with Z-Wave Plus. It integrates seamlessly with Ring Alarm, which gives you many of those added security features.

4. Control remotely

We spend a lot of time on our phones. It’s time to use them for something meaningful. Did you already arrive at the office only to remember you didn't close the garage door? Smart garage door openers allow you to close it no matter where you are. Did you forget to leave a key for the maintenance man to enter? Simply use your smart lock app to create a new access code that can be deactivated as soon as he has left the home. That’s secure access at your fingertips.

Smart home devices make it easy for homeowners to provide a safe and secure home for their families. No matter your budget or lifestyle, there's a variety of products that will help you gain greater peace of mind simply and conveniently.

1. Quality door

A quality garage door is key to protecting your cool toys and for helping to keep intruders out of your home. It can also do wonders for your curb appeal. The Remodeling 2019 Cost vs. Value Report (www.costvsvalue.com) showed that a garage door replacement recouped more money on resale than any other home improvement project.

2. Smart lock

It’s important to secure your family and belongings at every entry point to your home, including the door from the garage into the house. A Schlage smart lock provides the same keyless convenience and remote access as if you placed it on your front door. Bringing in a load of groceries? Unlock the door before you even get out of the car and fill your arms with bags. Giving garage access to a maintenance person but don’t want them in the house? Make sure the door is locked – and stays that way – from anywhere.

If you aren’t sure what kind of smart locks is right for you, try our interactive Get Help Deciding Tool.

3. Workbench

No matter how you use your garage – gardening, car repair, woodworking – you need a solid work surface. Make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold up to the vibration of power tools and large enough to handle nearly any project. We also recommend adding a bench vise. You might be surprised by how much you use it for projects big and small.

4. Lighting

Overhead lighting is important for the big stuff, but consider smaller options as well. Tabletop-style lamps or clamping workbench lights help with detail work like tying flies or repairing small electronics. Outside the garage, consider motion-activated lights to deter intruders and improve your home’s security.

5. Storage

You might not be sure what kind of storage you need, but you know you need it. Shelves with and without bins, a peg board, and hooks for hanging tools or outdoor gear like snowsuits are the most common. Also consider magnetic strips for keeping nails and smaller metallic tools close at hand, racks to keep shovels and rakes from falling all over the place, and a ball caddy for sports equipment. Use all your space, including overhead.

6. Lock-up for chemicals

We often store cleaning materials, old paint and car fluids like antifreeze in the garage. Choose lockers or other secure cabinets to help keep curious kids and pets safe.

7. Broom or shop vac

Even if you just use your garage to park your car, you’ll track in dirt and debris. An outdoor broom or shop vac can reduce mess tracked in the house. It’ll also come in handy if there’s dust swirling around after sanding and refinishing a door or potting soil from working on your container garden.

8. Stainless flooring

It seems like everything we do in our garages causes a mess. Make it easier to keep the space looking great with stainless flooring. While this isn’t an absolute must, we’re pretty sure you won’t regret it. Epoxy is a popular choice for this purpose, but you can find more easy-to-clean garage floor options at BobVila.com.

9. Rags

You need to clean a spill, stain a reclaimed cabinet or wipe down your tools. You can’t have enough rags. They don’t have to be anything fancy. Ripped T-shirts, a sock whose mate got lost in Dryer Land or tattered blankets all work great, and you won’t be heartbroken when they get so gross you have to throw them away.

10. Emergency supplies

Accidents happen. Stock your garage with a fire extinguisher – don’t forget to check it regularly to make sure it’s in good working condition – and a first aid kit. Hopefully you’ll only ever need bandages for scraped knuckles. A flame-retardant blanket isn’t a bad idea either.

Upgrading your garage is not a priority for most when it comes to home improvement projects. But these basics show that you can turn it into the perfect place for any DIY project, hobby or storage unit with minimal time and money. Find more tips for a more organized and secure garage in our blog archives.