10 Outdoor Decor Mistakes That Make Your Home an Easy Target for Burglars

When it comes to outdoor decor, we often focus on enhancing the aesthetic appeal of our homes. However, certain choices could be sending the wrong message—one that criminals notice immediately. Burglars are opportunistic and often look for signs that no one is home.

If your outdoor decor screams “vacant house,” you could be unknowingly making your home an easier target for thieves.

1. Luxury Outdoor Furniture Left Unattended

Expensive outdoor furniture, especially when left unattended, can be an invitation to thieves. High-end chairs, tables, and cushions visible from the street may give burglars the impression that the house is unoccupied. When valuable items are accessible, they can attract unwanted attention. Consider storing them when you’re away or using less conspicuous, secure alternatives.

2. Overgrown Lawn and Landscaping

An unkempt lawn can easily indicate that no one is around to tend to the yard. Dying plants, overgrown grass, or leaves scattered around the yard create the illusion of a neglected home. This is like waving a flag for burglars who are looking for an easy target. To maintain the appearance of a lived-in home, have a neighbor help or hire a lawn service to keep things neat while you’re away.

3. Unattended Holiday Lights

Leaving holiday lights on 24/7, especially when you’re not home, could be giving burglars the green light to break in. Lights that are constantly on—whether they’re Christmas lights or any festive decor—can signal to criminals that no one is around to switch them off. Consider using timers or smart lights that turn on and off automatically to create the illusion of activity.

4. Garden and Porch Signs Giving Away Your Absence

Signs such as “Back Monday” or “Gone to the beach!” might seem like cute additions to your garden or porch, but they can unintentionally broadcast that you’re away. Burglars are quick to notice these details, and any specific mention of your plans can help them determine the best time to strike. It’s better to avoid giving away too much information or opt for more neutral signs.

5. Inflatable Decorations Left Outside

Inflatable decorations are fun, but they can become easy targets for burglars if left unattended. Since these decorations can be easily deflated and taken, leaving them out after the holiday season or celebration is a clear indication that no one is home. To prevent theft, take them down after use or store them securely when not in use.

6. Excessive Lawn Ornaments

While a few lawn ornaments can add charm to your garden, having too many—especially large, colorful, or expensive ones—could attract the wrong kind of attention. Burglars often watch homes with visible decorations to track when homeowners are away, making your property a prime target. Keep lawn ornaments minimal and avoid overdecorating.

7. Lights Left On Constantly

The myth that leaving your lights on 24/7 can deter burglars couldn’t be farther from the truth. In fact, it’s an obvious sign that you’re not home. Thieves can easily spot a house with lights that never turn off, knowing that it’s likely vacant. Instead, use timers or smart lights that create an illusion of activity by turning on and off at different times.

8. Elaborate Water Features

Custom-built fountains or other elaborate water features can add a luxurious touch to your backyard, but they can also attract thieves. These valuable items may be easy to dismantle or remove, making them an attractive target for burglars. Additionally, if these features have stopped working or appear neglected, criminals may assume you’re not home. To avoid this, secure water features or keep them simple and unobtrusive.

9. Large, Decorative Planters

Big planters with rare or expensive plants are an attractive sight—but they can also send the message that your home is affluent, and perhaps, an easy target. If planters are left unguarded or not well-maintained, thieves may target them for the plants or even steal the planters themselves. Secure large planters in a way that they aren’t easy to remove or ensure they’re filled with low-maintenance plants.

10. Hot Tubs or Jacuzzis Left Exposed

A hot tub or jacuzzi can be a luxurious backyard feature, but without proper monitoring, it can attract burglars. Not only does it suggest that the homeowner may have money, but it also gives thieves a place to hide and observe when the house is empty. To prevent this, ensure hot tubs are covered when not in use and install security measures to keep your backyard safe.