ADT’s 2025 Home Security Survey revealed that when it comes to protecting their homes, people often come up with solutions that are far from foolproof. Some said that their preferred spot to hide spare keys was inside the grill. (What happens when you forget and fire it up?) Another respondent said they like to stash their keys “in the trees.” That might win some points for creativity, but it’s not very efficient—or secure.
These common home-security tricks might be called “safe-ish“: they seem to bypass the most obvious hiding spots, but they’re still pretty predictable. In other words, they’re a kind of security that isn’t really secure at all. ADT, the professionals that helped pioneer home security and bring 150 years of experience to the job, know how to help you skip the not-so-clever hacks and truly secure your home.
Here are three tips from ADT to upgrade your home from safe-ish to safe.
1. Ditch physical spare keys for digital remote entry
Even if you don’t place your spare keys under a potted plant or the mat on the porch, it’s still nearly impossible to find a truly secure hiding place. Combination lockboxes aren’t much better: many people use easy-to-guess consecutive number sequences, and common lockboxes can be forced open with enough effort.
ADT’s Trusted Neighbor does away with the inherent limitations of physical keys altogether: it lets you remotely give friends, family and neighbors access to your home when you’re away. Using your Google Nest Doorbell and compatible Yale Smart Lock, Trusted Neighbor allows authorized visitors to unlock your door and disarm your security system for temporary access at times you specify. Not only will your spare key no longer be in the wild, but this cuts down on logistical conversations with your neighbors when you need their help while you’re away, especially when there’s some urgency to your request.
2. Cameras see what Carol next door can’t
One person who responded to ADT’s 2025 Home Security Survey said they stop package theft the old-fashioned way: by watching out the window. But you can’t keep your eyes on the window all the time, and chances are you’re having things delivered to save you time in the first place. Kind neighbors may agree to keep an eye out for you, but they also can’t be watching 24/7.
ADT can send alerts to your phone through the ADT+ app for many different events, like when a package is delivered, when the doorbell rings or more serious activity when your alarm is triggered. ADT’s agents can use real-time data and contact emergency services if necessary. ADT Alarm Messenger is another helpful feature that allows you to quickly confirm an emergency or cancel a false alarm with just the push of a button.
3. Install your own custom smart security system
If your home security is suffering because you don’t want a full professional installation, consider creating your own customized smart home system. DIY systems are growing increasingly popular because they’re affordable, easy to install and connect with smart home devices you already have.
ADT’s DIY offering gives you options: you can start with one of ADT’s bundles, or build your own system with sensors and other devices that fit your needs. Installation doesn’t require specialized techniques or technicians, with no heavy-duty tools required. If you already have Google Nest devices, you may be able to integrate them into your new ADT system and manage them from the ADT+ app.
The best part: DIY systems allow you to choose exactly what you need without breaking the bank. ADT’s DIY smart system is available starting at just $199 when you sign up for a month of monitoring at $24.99—an extremely accessible price point for taking your home security out of the hands of helpful-but-fallible neighbors and putting it in the hands of professionals.
Don’t settle for “safe-ish“
Your home security is too important to rely on outwitting bad actors with clever hiding spots or hoping Carol next door sees what’s going on. ADT’s smart home solutions help you avoid these all-too-common hacks and take your home from “safe-ish” to actually safe. Get started on your customized smart security system with ADT’s DIY option for just $199*.
*One month of monitoring required at $24.99. See additional terms here.
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