Can You Get in Trouble for Breaking into Your Own House?
Is it legal for you to break into your own house?
Yes, you can get in trouble for breaking into your own house—at least temporarily. If the police are notified that there is a break-in at a residence, either by a neighbor or a security alarm, they can detain or arrest you until you can prove that it is your home. It’s unlikely you’ll be charged with any crime, though.
Will I get into legal trouble?
You certainly can’t get a burglary conviction for breaking into your own house. Burglary is defined as entry into a building illegally to commit a crime, especially theft. You have full legal rights to enter your own home, and you can’t steal from yourself.
However, if you get angry with the cops who show up and respond aggressively, you could legitimately be charged with resisting arrest or disorderly conduct.
What should I do if authorities arrive?
If this situation ever happens to you, remain calm. Remember, the police are just doing their job, and if you don’t have any identification to show them, they need to verify your story before letting you go. Cooperate with the authorities even if it is embarrassing to sit in the back of the patrol car or, worse, be handcuffed.
Can I be fined?
Finally, you can be fined in most municipalities if the police are summoned to your house because of a false security alarm. False alarm fees can range anywhere from $50 to $800 or more depending on the city you live in and if you have had any previous false alarm violations. These fees are in place because false alarms can number in the tens of thousands each year and put a lot of strain on police resources.
Explore Our Other Blogs
Fire Safety Procedures for the Workplace
The bad news—a fire breaks out in your workplace. The good news—you are ready because you have done your homework and prepared for the possibility of an emergency. Emergency Action Plan The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires most employers to have an emergency action plan for various scenarios, including fires in the workplace. There are…
Who Owns ADT Alarm Systems After Install?
You’ve paid to have an alarm system installed in your home. Do you own the equipment? Most likely, but not yet if you contracted with a big-box home security company like ADT. Payment Plans for Equipment Most people sign up on special offers in which they will pay an installation fee for the equipment, but…
Advantages of Having an Alarm System
There are a lot of advantages to having an alarm system. For starters, the National Council for Home Safety and Security says that homes without an alarm system are three times as likely to get burglarized. 3 Benefits of Alarm Systems Peace of mind Protecting your home from intruders is one of the most common…
Security Cameras Are Not Created Equal
The Difference in Security Cameras Cameras are one of the most critical components in your security arsenal, and not all security cameras are the same. Why you ask? Consider these differences: Various types and sizes of cameras Indoor vs. outdoor cameras Cameras that are easy to camouflage Cameras that provide high-quality video footage Wired cameras vs. wireless…
Can You Get a Discount on Home Insurance if You Have a Security System?
Home invasions or burglaries are a threat to any household, regardless of where they are located. One of the biggest deterrents for burglars is a home security system that could record evidence of their actions or could notify the authorities at the time of a break-in. This is a huge motivator for homeowners when deciding…
Will Renter’s Insurance Give a Discount if You Have a Security System?
Home invasions or burglaries are a threat to any household, regardless of where they are located. One of the biggest deterrents for burglars is a home security system that could record evidence of their actions or could notify the authorities at the time of a break-in. This is a huge motivator for homeowners when deciding…
Do You Know How Your Alarm System Communicates?
What is alarm monitoring? One of the most sought-after features for residential and commercial security systems is 24/7 alarm monitoring. Monitored security systems are connected to a central monitoring facility with staff who review tripped alarms, verify emergencies, and contact relevant emergency services. Monitors generally reach at least two phone numbers connected to a residence…
How Often Should You Check Your Smoke Detectors?
Fire Alarm Testing Whether your fire alarm is protecting your home or a commercial facility, regular testing of your fire alarm system is critical to ensure it is working correctly. This test guarantees that everyone occupying the home or office understands what to do when the fire alarm sounds, gives you a chance to check…
Choosing a Safe Neighborhood in Chicago
There are a lot of great places to live in Chicago. From the historic vibe of Printers Row to the ultra-stylish River North, there are neighborhoods to fit every personality. But are they safe? It turns out, many of them are. According to Niche.com—which ranks neighborhoods based on crime, schools, cost of living, etc.—the short commuting times…
The Only SimpliSafe Review You Need to Read
What is SimpliSafe? SimpliSafe is one of several do-it-yourself home security systems on the market. The challenge with any DIY home security system, in our opinion, comes down to the customer experience. SimpliSafe’s customer support offers minimal assistance to ensure you adequately install and troubleshoot your system. While they do provide an 800-telephone number, the…