Moving to a new home? Remember to put security on the checklist

For many South Africans, the dream of a different lifestyle continues to influence where they choose to live.

The latest Lightstone data shows that while semigration remains an important feature of South Africa’s residential property market, most homeowners continue to move within their existing province. In 2025, 83% of homeowners who sold one property and purchased another remained within the same province, while 63% remained within the same municipality. Among those who relocated across provincial borders, the Western Cape remained the standout destination and the only province to record a significant net gain over the past five years.

But while moving to a new province, town or suburb may offer a fresh start, security should not be an afterthought.

Charnel Hattingh, Group Head of Marketing and Communications at Fidelity Services Group, says people moving to a new area should take the time to understand the local security environment rather than assuming that a quieter suburb or smaller community is automatically safer.

“Moving to a new area can be incredibly exciting, particularly when the decision is driven by lifestyle, family or the desire for a change of pace. However, crime trends differ between provinces, municipalities and neighbourhoods.

“People should understand the specific risks in the area they are moving to and make informed security decisions from the outset.”

Hattingh says homeowners should consider several key factors when assessing security:

1. Response capability: Find out how quickly the security provider can respond and whether it has sufficient resources in the area
2. Visibility and patrols: A visible security presence can help deter criminal activity. Ask about patrol frequency and local deployment
3. Results: Look beyond promises. Consider the provider’s track record and how it works with SAPS, community structures and other stakeholders
4. Technology: Ensure the provider keeps up to speed with modern monitoring, detection and response technologies
5. Experience and local knowledge: An established provider is likely to have a better understanding of local crime patterns, hotspots and community dynamics
6. Regulatory compliance: Always ensure your chosen security provider is properly registered with the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSiRA).

“Your research should not stop at the property listing,” says Hattingh. “Speak to people who live in the area, engage with local security providers and find out what crime trends they are seeing.

“Also look closely at the security of the property itself. That beautiful sea view may be appealing, but a large sliding door without adequate protection can create a vulnerability. Likewise, a large garden with limited perimeter protection, poor lighting or overgrown vegetation can provide opportunities for criminals.”

Moving into a new suburb? Start with these security checks:

• Ask the locals: Speak to estate agents, neighbours, SAPS, the CPF and reputable security providers about crime trends
• Inspect the property: Check walls, fencing, gates, electric fencing, vegetation, access points and outdoor lighting. Consider whether additional beams or sensors are required
• Check doors and windows: Assess locks, burglar bars, security gates and other physical security measures
• Test the alarm: If an alarm is already installed, establish whether it can be linked to your preferred armed response provider. Test the alarm, panic buttons, sensors and backup battery
• Secure access points: Make sure all keys, remotes and access devices are accounted for and consider changing locks or access codes when moving in
• Get to know your neighbours: Exchange contact details where appropriate. Neighbours can be an important source of information and may notice unusual activity
• Join trusted community channels: Local WhatsApp groups, neighbourhood watches, community forums and CPF structures can provide useful information about security concerns.

“Whether you are moving to a coastal town, a smaller inland community or a new suburb in one of South Africa’s major cities, security should form part of your relocation planning,” Hattingh concludes.

“A new home represents a new chapter, but your security habits should move with you. Take the time to understand your surroundings, assess your vulnerabilities and choose security solutions appropriate to the risks in your area.”