46% of Respondents Prefer a Private Fence for Enhanced Security

Your home is your sanctuary, a place to relax and feel safe from the outside world. For this reason, taking the steps to deter potential intruders is essential. Alarms and smart systems are great, but a well-designed privacy fence can be your first line of defense. These fences not only prevent intruders but also add value to your home. 

We surveyed 1,023 respondents to see whether they believe privacy fences enhance their sense of security, as well as identify their preferred security measures. Our goal was to understand home security practices among respondents and assess the prominence of privacy fences in their security strategies.

We also gathered additional home security statistics to better understand the state of residential burglaries and property crime in the United States.

Key Statistics: 

• Privacy fences are one of the top three security features for safety.
• 46% of respondents believe a privacy fence significantly enhances their security.
• 66% of respondents consider cost-effectiveness when choosing a fence for home security.

46% Believe a Privacy Fence Would Significantly Enhance Their Sense of Security

Nearly half, or 46% of respondents, indicated that installing a privacy fence would significantly enhance their sense of security at home. This suggests that a good portion of homeowners view privacy fences as a valuable security measure.

According to ADT, 22% of home break-ins occur through the back door, one of the most vulnerable entry points in a house.  For this reason, privacy fences around the backyard can be a valuable security measure for homeowners, helping to deter intruders.

Privacy Fences Ranked in the Top 3 for Security Features That Made Respondents Feel Safer

While doorbell cameras (64%) and entry point alarm systems (49%) were ranked even higher, a great number of respondents, 39%, identified privacy fences as a top security feature that makes them feel safe.  Privacy fences offer a unique blend of security and privacy, making them a desirable addition to many homes.

Interestingly, respondents between the ages of 45 and 60 placed the highest value on privacy fences as a security measure (43%). This may indicate a greater concern for privacy within their homes and its potential connection to break-ins compared to younger age groups. For example, only 37% of respondents between 18 and 29 identified privacy fences as a top security feature.

1 in 5 Respondents Couldn’t Live Without a Privacy Fence

Most of the respondents believed they couldn’t live without a privacy fence and a doorbell camera — 20% and 41%, respectively. 

The other security features following behind include: 

• 17% for an entry point alarm system 
• 14% for a smart home integration 
• 9% for motion detectors

These findings highlight Americans’ interest in using multiple security products and solutions to feel safe at home.

The most common way for burglars to enter a home is through an open window or unlocked door. Even if you accidentally leave a back door unlocked, a privacy fence can provide an extra layer of security by deterring intruders from easily accessing the house.

Respondents Typically Spend Under $250 on Security Upgrades for Their Homes

When asked about their investments in home security upgrades, 26% of respondents indicated that they have spent between $250 and $749.

While this already represents a modest financial investment, note that another 36% reported spending $250 or less on enhancing their home security. This data reveals that while respondents prioritize security and have a little wiggle room in their budget, they mostly seek cost-effective solutions.

“Whether you’re gone for the weekend or gone for the winter, home security provides peace of mind, knowing your house is safe while you’re away, and even a little bit can go a long way to deter potential intruders.” — Wes Hartkemeyer, Police Officer and Co-Founder at IReport

Pets at Home Make the Majority of People Feel Much Safer

Over 43% of respondents indicated that having a pet in the home absolutely increases their sense of security. This suggests that the presence of a pet, whether through their watchful nature or deterrent barks, provides comfort for many respondents.

We also explored the idea of “pet security” and whether it is amplified when combined with physical deterrents. While invisible fences can provide perimeter awareness for your pet, they may not be a sufficient deterrent for burglars.

When asked specifically about the impact of having both a pet and a privacy fence, a substantial 41% of respondents indicated that this pairing significantly enhances their feeling of protection against potential intruders.

This suggests that the combination of a pet acting as an alert system and a privacy fence creating a physical barrier discourages unauthorized access from burglars.

Home Security Is Very Important for 47% of Respondents

Home security is considered a top priority for respondents. 47% of respondents indicated that home security is very important to them, and nearly as many respondents considered it essential.  This highlights the significant concern many people have regarding the safety and protection of their homes.

Interestingly, the results showed minimal gender disparity. While 50% of male respondents considered home security very important, 45% of females felt the same.

Homeowners are increasingly investing in advanced security systems and preventive measures to safeguard their properties and ensure peace of mind. According to research from SafeHome.org, nearly 1 in 5 U.S. households have both an alarm system and a video doorbell, indicating a growing trend towards comprehensive home security. 

66% of Respondents Consider Cost-Effectiveness When Choosing a Fence for Home Security

When considering the factors most important when investing in a privacy fence, the majority of survey respondents identified cost-effectiveness as the top priority (66%), with height and durability being secondary considerations (46%).

It’s safe to conclude that affordability is the key consideration when choosing a fencing solution, even if it means sacrificing other factors like design and durability. 

More Home Security Statistics

When we asked respondents how safe they feel without home security upgrades, only 33% said “mostly safe.”  This sentiment may be due to a variety of factors, such as living in a safe neighborhood or having a strong sense of community. 

We analyzed the 2023 Home Security Market Report by SafeHome.org to provide further information on the state of home security in the U.S.

• 72% of homeowners opt for some form of home security. 
• More than 39 million U.S. homes have security alarm systems, while up to 45 million boast video doorbells.
• Up to 13 million U.S. homes could get new alarms, and 10 million might add access control in 2024.  
• Over 80% of young adults (under 30) use home security systems. 
• 44% of consumers prefer professionally installed security systems, while a significant portion (42%) rely on the reliability of hard-wired devices.

This data illustrates that the U.S. home security market is both well-established and evolving. While a sizable portion feels secure without additional upgrades, the overall trend leans toward adopting home security systems. As technology advances, the market will continue to grow in terms of security solutions.

Property Crime Statistics 

We examined the latest FBI Crime data to provide insight into property crimes in the U.S.

• The FBI reported 1,954.4 property crimes per 100,000 people in 2022, translating to a total of 5,049,721 incidents. Out of those incidents, 1,862,306 occurred at a residence home. 
• The FBI data shows a 59% reduction in U.S. property crime rates between 1993 and 2022. 
• Only 31.8% of household property crimes were reported to authorities in 2022. 
• The 30-39 age range correlates with the highest number of incidents, accounting for about 23% of the total.

This data provides a mixed perspective on property crimes in the U.S. While it positively highlights property crime rates are decreasing, the number of incidents is still substantial. The parallel between declining rates and a high number of incidents suggests there may be a shift in the types of property crimes being committed.

Burglary Statistics

We reviewed the 2023 U.S. Crime Trends from the Council on Criminal Justice to present data on U.S. burglaries.

• In 2023, the residential burglary rate was 26% lower than in 2019.
• The residential burglary rate was 117.3 per 100,000 city residents.
• Reports of residential burglaries decreased by 3%, while nonresidential burglaries by 7% in 2023 compared to 2022.

The report included only 38 American cities, which is not necessarily representative of all U.S. cities.

This CCJ data reveals a downward trend in burglaries across the U.S., with burglary rates declining for both residential and non-residential properties. While the overall rate remains at 117.3 incidents per 100,000 city residents, this suggests a potential for a continued decrease in the national risk of residential burglary.

“Be friendly with your neighbors so you can keep an eye on each others’ houses. It’s surprising how much another set of eyes can notice and alert you to.” — Rick Musson, Law Enforcement Officer and Consultant with Clearsurance.com.

5 Ways To Prevent Home Burglaries

Protecting your home from potential burglaries is crucial for ensuring the safety of your family and belongings. Taking effective security measures will reduce the risk of break-ins. Try these five security strategies to safeguard your property better.

1. Install a Privacy Fence

A tall privacy fence can help deter burglars by limiting their view into your backyard and providing a difficult barrier to climb. When investing in a new fence, consider factors such as the strength of the material and the height. Wood fences are some of the best security fences for offering the most privacy and lasting durability. Choose fencing designs that minimize gaps, such as:

• Board-on-board
• Cap on Trim
• Stockade

You can also combine these fencing designs for double enforcement, like a cedar Board-on-board with a cap and trim. A well-chosen fence design enhances your home’s security and privacy, creating a safer environment for you and your family.

2. Secure Doors and Windows

Securing all your doors and windows is an important step to help prevent burglars from entering your property and home. Complete the following:

• Put in a driveway gate for controlled access to vehicles entering and exiting your property.
• Install deadbolt locks on all exterior doors and add locks to all windows.
• Add security bars on basement windows for extra protection.

By securing your doors and windows, you significantly increase the security measures around your property.

3. Install a Home Security System

A home security system provides a central place to oversee the security of your property. There are various systems to choose from, ranging in cost and features. For a well-rounded system, ensure it includes motion detectors, window and door sensors, and an alarm system.

4. Use Motion Lights

Motion lights are an easy way to deter burglars. Install them around your property, especially near doors and walkways. Pair the motion lights with security cameras to capture footage of any intruders and share the information with your neighborhood watch

5. Inform Neighbors and Friends When You’re Away 

If you’re going away for an extended period, such as on a family vacation or work trip, let a friend or trusted neighbor know. They can keep an eye on your property by:

• Collecting your mail and package deliveries
• Turning on lights in your home, including porch lights
• Parking their car in your driveway to give the illusion that someone is home
• A recent study we conducted found that 55% of homeowners rely on neighborhood apps for home safety decisions.

You can also hire a house sitter to stay at your home while you’re away, which is ideal for those with pets and delicate plants.

Methodology

The survey of over 1,000 adults aged 18+ was conducted via SurveyMonkey Audience for Top Rail Fence on May 5, 2024. Data is unweighted and the margin of error is approximately +/-3% for the overall sample with a 95% confidence level.