Residential burglary. The very thought can send shivers down your spine. It’s not just about the loss of possessions; it’s the violation of your personal space, the feeling of insecurity that lingers long after the police tape is gone. In 2019 alone, victims of these crimes in the U.S. suffered an estimated $3.0 billion in property losses. While comprehensive nationwide statistics for the entirety of 2025 are still being compiled, early data from Washington D.C. shows a slight increase in burglaries, with 262 reported year-to-date compared to 257 in the same period of 2024. This trend underscores the ongoing importance of understanding how these crimes occur.
Think you’re safe behind locked doors? Think again. The methods burglars employ are often surprisingly simple, exploiting vulnerabilities you might not even consider. Knowing their tactics is the first step in fortifying your defenses and ensuring your home doesn’t become the next target. So, we talked with criminologists, lock smiths and victims of burglary to compile the best source for you to learn about this and be able to protect yourself.
Let’s explore the often-unseen world of residential burglary and reveal the secrets that could help you stay one step ahead.
The Front Door Isn’t Always the First Choice (But It’s Still a Big Problem)
Forget the shadowy figure scaling walls in the dead of night. Statistics paint a different picture. A staggering 34% of burglars simply walk right through the front door. Yes, you read that right. Often, it’s as easy as twisting the knob. This highlights a critical oversight: many homeowners don’t consistently use deadbolts or even leave their doors unlocked.
But the front door isn’t the only vulnerable spot. First-floor windows account for approximately 23% of entries, while back doors are also a significant access point at around 22%. In fact, a large majority of burglaries, around 81%, occur through the first floor of a home. Garages and basements, though less frequent, still present opportunities, each accounting for about 9% of entries in some data. Second-floor entries are the least common, at around 2%.
When a Lock Isn’t Enough: The Tools and Techniques of Forced Entry
When a simple twist of the knob doesn’t work, burglars often turn to basic but effective tools. Crowbars and screwdrivers are frequently employed to pry open doors, especially around the frame or lock area. Prybars, due to their versatility, are also favored for prying and even damaging entry points. For windows, burglars may use crowbars or other objects to smash the glass and gain entry.
One of the most straightforward forced entry methods for doors is simply kicking them in, with the area right next to the deadbolt often being targeted as the weakest point. Interestingly, one perspective from an incarcerated individual suggests that kicking in a door might be preferred over breaking glass due to the noise level and the risk of injury from shattered glass. This highlights that even in forced entry, burglars often consider the potential for detection.
The Easiest Score: Exploiting Unsecured Entry Points
It might seem unbelievable, but a significant portion of burglaries occur simply because a door or window was left unlocked. Estimates suggest that almost 30% of burglars enter a home through an unsecured door or window. Some statistics even indicate that a substantial majority of burglaries are committed by amateurs who exploit these readily available entry points. The fact that unlocked doors are consistently cited as a primary vulnerability underscores a critical lapse in basic home security practices among many homeowners.
Common Burglary Entry Points and Estimated Percentages
| Entry Point | Estimated Percentage |
| Front Door | 34% |
| First-Floor Window | 23% |
| Back Door | 22% |
| Unlocked Door/Window | Up to 30% |
| Garage Door | 9% |
| Basement | 9% |
| Second Floor | 2% |
The Burglar’s Toolkit: More Than Just Masks and Gloves
While sophisticated tools exist, many burglars rely on simple, easily obtainable items. Besides crowbars and screwdrivers, hammers are also frequently used, particularly for breaking windows to gain access. In cases of door-based forced entry, tools like levers and pliers might be used to break, unhinge, or force the door open. The accessibility of these tools makes it crucial for homeowners to have robust physical security measures in place.
Beyond Brute Force: Techniques to Bypass Locks
For those who prefer a less destructive approach, various techniques exist to bypass locked entry points. Kicking in doors, as mentioned, targets the structural weakness near the deadbolt. Lock prying involves using tools to apply force and manipulate the locking mechanism, especially on doors with inadequate security. Window smashing is a direct approach to climb through or unlock a door from the inside.
More skilled burglars might employ lock picking, using specialized tools to manipulate the pins within a lock cylinder without a key. Lock bumping, a technique involving a specially cut “bump key,” can also bypass many standard pin tumbler locks. In some instances, a drill might be used to remove the front of a deadbolt, allowing manipulation of the internal mechanism with household tools.
The Silent Intruder: Prioritizing Quiet Entry
While some forced entry methods are inherently loud, potentially deterring burglars, there’s often a preference for techniques that minimize noise and the risk of detection. Security screens, when installed, can act as a noise deterrent. Smashing glass is generally considered a noisy method. Interestingly, the perspective of an incarcerated individual suggests that kicking in a door might be considered quieter than breaking glass. For bypassing locks, methods like lock picking or drilling can be performed with less noise compared to forceful methods.
The Modern Threat: Exploiting Technology
In our increasingly connected world, technology presents both security solutions and new vulnerabilities. Wireless security systems relying on Wi-Fi connectivity can be susceptible to jamming devices that disrupt the signals, effectively disabling the system. Tech-savvy burglars can use these devices to disconnect the security system from its network, preventing alarms from being raised or alerts from being sent.
DIY home security systems, while convenient, can also have hacking vulnerabilities due to potential software weaknesses. Weak encryption methods used by some kits can make it easier for cybercriminals to intercept data. Furthermore, many DIY systems come with preset default settings that users might not change, creating a significant security flaw.
Digital Security Blunders: Leaving the Backdoor Open
A fundamental vulnerability lies in homeowners’ failure to implement basic digital security practices. Leaving default passwords on safety devices is like leaving a physical key under the doormat. Any device connected to the internet, including security systems, can be hacked if not properly secured. Weak passwords, often short and easy to guess, are a primary point of entry for unauthorized access. The lack of two-factor authentication can also leave accounts vulnerable.
Bypassing the Watchful Eye: Disabling Alarms and Surveillance
Burglars may employ various tactics to bypass or disable alarms and surveillance. Wireless signal jammers can disrupt the signals of alarm systems. In some cases, phone lines of alarm systems might be cut. For smart doorbells and cameras, burglars might tamper with their power source or wiring. They may also use disguises or cover their faces to avoid being captured on video. Some might even try to exploit technical vulnerabilities in the software or firmware of these devices.
Don’t think this is the case? check out this article on the matter of home security systems hacking.
When Do They Strike? The Timing and Patterns of Burglary
Understanding when burglaries are most likely to occur can help homeowners be more vigilant. While some data points to midnight as a peak time, a significant amount of evidence suggests that most home burglaries happen during the daytime hours, typically between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., with a peak between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.. This is often because most homes are unoccupied during these times. Weekdays, particularly Fridays, may also see a higher number of occurrences.
Seasonally, burglaries tend to be more frequent during the summer months, with rates typically highest in August and lowest in February. This increase in summer is likely due to warmer weather and more people being away on vacation.
Check out this pdf file from Bureau of Justice Statistics for more details on timing and Seasonal Patterns.
Burglary Occurrences by Time of Day
| Time of Day | Common Occurrence |
| 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Most Common |
| Peak: 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. | Highest Risk |
| Midnight | High Occurrence |
Target Acquired: How Burglars Choose Their Prey
Burglars don’t just pick any house. They often consider various factors to maximize their chances of success while minimizing risks. Ease of access is a major factor; unlocked doors or windows make a home a prime target. Poorly secured doors and windows also increase vulnerability. The absence of a visible security system can make a home significantly more likely to be burglarized.
Signs of vacancy are strong indicators for burglars. These can include accumulated mail or packages, unkempt lawns, no lights on at night, and an empty driveway. The perceived presence of valuable items also plays a role. Burglars might look for homes in affluent neighborhoods or observe signs of wealth like expensive cars. Overgrown landscaping can provide hiding spots.
Common Mistakes That Scream “Rob Me!”
Homeowners often unintentionally make mistakes that increase their vulnerability. Leaving doors and windows unlocked is a top offender. Hiding spare keys in obvious places like under the doormat or in a fake rock is another common error. Neglecting home exterior maintenance, such as allowing mail to pile up, signals absence. Advertising absence on social media is a modern mistake. Leaving valuables in plain sight can also entice burglars.
The Unexpected Methods: Beyond the Obvious
While most residential burglaries involve basic methods, some burglars employ less common and more sophisticated techniques. Lock picking and lock bumping, as mentioned earlier, fall into this category. Burglars might also exploit less obvious entry points like crawlspaces or attics. Using ladders to access upper-story windows is another less common but effective technique.
Social Engineering: The Art of Deception
Some burglars use deception to gain access or information. They might impersonate utility workers, delivery personnel, or even neighbors to case a home or gain entry under false pretenses. “Knock-knock” burglaries, where an intruder knocks to see if anyone is home and potentially assess the property, are another form of social engineering.
Emerging Threats: The Technological Edge
The technological landscape is constantly evolving, and so are burglary tactics. Garage door code hacking and the use of specialized devices to bypass garage door security are examples of this trend. The increasing use of Wi-Fi jamming devices to disable wireless home security systems is a significant concern. Savvy burglars may also attempt to hack into other Wi-Fi-connected devices, such as cameras, to gain information or disable security measures.
To Sum Up: Staying Safe in an Unpredictable World
Understanding how burglars break into houses reveals that while some methods involve force or technical skill, many rely on simple opportunities created by homeowners’ oversights. By being aware of these vulnerabilities and taking proactive steps to secure your home, you can significantly reduce your risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it true that most burglaries happen at night?
Contrary to popular belief, most residential burglaries occur during the daytime, typically between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., when homes are often unoccupied.
What is the most common way burglars enter a home?
The front door is the most frequent point of entry, with around 34% of burglaries occurring this way. Often, this is due to unlocked doors or simple forced entry.
Are security systems effective at deterring burglars?
Yes, homes without a security system are significantly more likely to be targeted by burglars. Visible security measures can make burglars think twice.
What are some simple things I can do to make my home less appealing to burglars?
Always lock your doors and windows, even when you are home. Avoid leaving spare keys in obvious places. Maintain your home’s exterior to avoid the appearance of vacancy. Don’t advertise your travel plans on social media. Keep valuables out of sight. Ensure you have good outdoor lighting and trim any overgrown landscaping.
Are there any new technologies that burglars are using?
Yes, some tech-savvy burglars are using Wi-Fi jamming devices to disable wireless security systems and may attempt to hack into other connected devices.
By understanding these methods and taking appropriate precautions, you can significantly improve your home security and reduce your risk of becoming a statistic. Stay alert, stay informed, and stay safe.