The Most Common Entry Points for Burglars in Ireland (and How to Secure Them)

Most break-ins in Ireland are opportunistic. Burglars look for the easiest, quietest and least visible way to get into a home — and they often succeed simply because certain areas aren’t properly secured. The good news is that once you understand the most common entry points, you can take simple steps to protect them.

In this friendly guide, we’ll walk through the top entry points burglars use in Irish homes, explain why they’re vulnerable and show you practical ways to secure each one. We’ll also share real‑world examples, common mistakes to avoid and helpful FAQs.

If you want a deeper look at alarm options, visit our Home Alarm Systems page.

Why Understanding Entry Points Matters

Most homeowners assume burglars break in through smashed windows or dramatic forced entry. In reality, burglars prefer quiet, hidden and predictable access points. They look for:

  • Doors that aren’t alarmed
  • Windows that are easy to force
  • Side passages hidden from neighbours
  • Outbuildings with valuable tools

Once you know where the weak spots are, securing your home becomes much easier — and often more affordable than you might think.

1. Rear Patio Doors

Rear patio doors are the number one entry point for burglars in Ireland. They’re usually hidden from the street, shielded by fences or hedges and often left unprotected by older alarm systems.

Why burglars target patio doors

  • They’re out of sight from neighbours and passers‑by.
  • Many older doors can be forced quietly.
  • Sliding doors are especially vulnerable to lifting or prying.

How to secure patio doors

  • Shock sensors: Detect forced entry attempts before the door opens.
  • Door contacts: Trigger the alarm if the door is opened.
  • CCTV coverage: A rear‑garden camera adds visibility and deterrence.
  • Anti‑lift devices: Prevent sliding doors from being lifted off the track.

Everyday example

You’re upstairs and someone tries to force the patio door. A shock sensor triggers instantly — long before the door opens — giving you time to react.

2. Side Access Gates

Side entrances are extremely common in Irish semi‑detached and detached homes. They provide a quiet, hidden route to the rear garden — exactly what burglars want.

Why burglars target side access

  • It’s usually the least visible part of the home.
  • Gates are often left unlocked.
  • Bins or walls can provide cover.

How to secure side access

  • CCTV camera: A side‑passage camera is one of the most effective deterrents.
  • Outdoor motion sensor: Alerts you to movement along the side of the house.
  • Gate lock: A simple lock can make a big difference.

Everyday example

Someone opens your side gate at night. Your camera sends a motion alert, letting you check instantly from your phone.

3. Ground‑Floor Windows

Ground‑floor windows — especially those at the rear or side of the home — are a frequent target. Burglars often look for windows that are:

  • Left unlocked
  • Easy to force
  • Hidden from view

How to secure windows

  • Window contacts: Trigger the alarm when the window opens.
  • Shock sensors: Detect forced entry attempts.
  • Locks: Ensure all windows have working locks.
  • Lighting: Motion‑activated lights can deter intruders.

Everyday example

You forget to lock a kitchen window before bed. A window contact alerts you that it’s open when you try to arm the alarm.

4. Front Door

While less common than rear or side entry, some burglars do attempt forced entry at the front door. This usually happens when:

  • The door is old or poorly secured.
  • There’s no visible alarm or camera.
  • The area is quiet or poorly lit.

How to secure the front door

  • Video doorbell: Adds visibility and acts as a strong deterrent.
  • Door contact: Alerts you if the door is opened.
  • Shock sensor: Detects forced entry attempts.
  • Good lighting: Motion‑activated lights help deter intruders.

Everyday example

Someone approaches your front door while you’re at work. Your video doorbell notifies you instantly, and you can speak to them remotely.

5. Sheds and Outbuildings

Sheds, garages and garden rooms are often overlooked — but they’re one of the most common targets for opportunistic theft. Tools, bikes, lawn equipment and even home‑office gear are valuable and easy to grab quickly.

How to secure outbuildings

  • Wireless door contacts: Ideal for sheds or garden rooms.
  • Outdoor cameras: Provide visibility and deterrence.
  • Padlocks and security bars: Basic but effective.

Everyday example

You store bikes in your shed. A wireless contact alerts you if the shed door opens unexpectedly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Only securing the front door: Most break‑ins happen at the rear.
  • Relying on one camera: Most homes need at least two or three.
  • Ignoring sheds and outbuildings: These are common targets.
  • Not using shock sensors: They detect forced entry before a door or window opens.
  • Leaving side gates unlocked: A simple lock can prevent access.

Buyer Tips: How to Secure Your Home Effectively

If you want the biggest impact

Secure rear doors and side access first.

If you want visibility

Add CCTV to the front, side and rear.

If you want early detection

Use shock sensors on doors and windows.

If you want to protect outbuildings

Add wireless sensors or a camera.

For more guidance, visit our Home Alarm Systems or CCTV Systems pages.

FAQs: Common Entry Points for Burglars in Ireland

1. What is the most common entry point for burglars?

Rear patio doors are the most common because they’re hidden from view and often unprotected.

2. Do burglars really use windows?

Yes — especially ground‑floor windows that are unlocked or easy to force.

3. Are front‑door break‑ins common?

Less common, but they do happen. A video doorbell adds strong deterrence.

4. Should I secure my shed?

Absolutely. Sheds and outbuildings are frequent targets for tools and bikes.

5. Do shock sensors really help?

Yes — they detect forced entry attempts before a door or window opens.

6. How many cameras do I need?

Most homes need 2–3 cameras: front, side and rear.

7. Are side gates a risk?

Yes — they provide hidden access to the rear garden.

8. Can I secure my home without CCTV?

Yes, but CCTV adds visibility and helps you verify alarms.

9. Do burglars avoid homes with alarms?

Yes — visible alarms and cameras significantly reduce risk.

10. What’s the easiest upgrade I can make today?

Add shock sensors to rear doors and secure your side gate.

Final Thoughts

Most break‑ins target predictable weak points — rear doors, side access, windows and sheds. By securing these areas with the right mix of sensors, cameras and simple physical measures, you can dramatically reduce your risk.

If you’d like personalised advice or want to explore modern alarm and CCTV options, visit our Home Alarm Systems or book a home security survey.