I noticed some suspicious marks near the frame of my front door. It’s an old door, but these marks seem new to me. I’m in a street-level townhouse in NYC, so I’m naturally a bit worried. Do these look like someone tried to pry the door open? What should I do next?
Yeah, it does look like someone tried to pry it open.
Mika said:
Yeah, it does look like someone tried to pry it open.
Of course it does! What kind of question is this?
Mika said:
Yeah, it does look like someone tried to pry it open.
Of course it does! What kind of question is this?
I was going to say it might be squirrel damage.
@Quill
Those squirrels and their little pry bars strike again, huh?
@Quill
You know what? You’ve convinced me—definitely squirrels.
Mika said:
Yeah, it does look like someone tried to pry it open.
Of course it does! What kind of question is this?
I honestly didn’t want to jump to conclusions since I’ve never dealt with something like this before. I did ask a locksmith, though, and they confirmed it’s definitely an attempted break-in.
@Noel
I mean this kindly, but try to be more aware of your surroundings. Trust your gut—it’s a good habit to build. Glad you’re taking action now.
Nari said:
@Noel
I mean this kindly, but try to be more aware of your surroundings. Trust your gut—it’s a good habit to build. Glad you’re taking action now.
It’s not my home—I’m a nanny, and my boss hadn’t taken my concerns seriously until this. Now they’re reinforcing the door, adding a third strike plate, fixing the frame, and installing security cameras. We’re also replacing the second deadbolt.
@Noel
That’s great to hear! Stay safe.
Yeah, looks tampered with. You should consider getting a door cam and maybe reinforcing the frame with a stronger strike plate.
Looks like someone tried to mess with it. Get a camera, so you won’t have to wonder next time.
Cedar said:
Looks like someone tried to mess with it. Get a camera, so you won’t have to wonder next time.
And maybe a robotic guard dog and a trap door under the mat while you’re at it. /s
@Frankie
I wish I could set that up!
I’d suggest getting a long strike plate, like an 18-inch one, and securing it with 4-inch screws. Cameras are great, but they won’t stop someone determined to get in.
Dallas said:
I’d suggest getting a long strike plate, like an 18-inch one, and securing it with 4-inch screws. Cameras are great, but they won’t stop someone determined to get in.
This, plus a double deadbolt, might help. Also consider a door bar for added reinforcement when you’re home.
@Teo
We already have two deadbolts, but I’m adding the third strike plate and working on reinforcing the door frame.
Not only tried to get in, but tried really hard. Maybe put up a sign letting people know you’re out of whatever they’re looking for?
Quincy said:
Not only tried to get in, but tried really hard. Maybe put up a sign letting people know you’re out of whatever they’re looking for?
I’m worried I might be the stash! I’m a 20-year-old nanny, usually here alone or with the kids. We’re adding ADT, reinforcing the door, and I’ve also purchased some personal protection.