What is “Burglary of Habitation?”

2020 Update

Although nearly two years old, all of the information in this article is still relevant. It can be important to know what burglary of habitation is; scroll down to find out how. 

It’s not fun to talk about, but one of the main reasons to have a home security system is to prevent burglaries. In 2010 alone, more than  2.1 million  burglaries occurred throughout the United States. Understanding the law in terms of theft versus burglary is often important when pursuing cases in a court of law, and can help with pushing for harsher judgments or repayment of stolen goods.

In the state of Texas, for example, traditional burglary is often referred to as “burglary of habitation.”

What is Burglary of Habitation?

Burglary of Habitation  is a specific law that is common throughout Texas and refers to any incident in which an individual unlawfully enters a home or another building without permission (whether it is a residential or commercial property). Burglary of Habitation states that:

• An individual has entered the premise unlawfully (whether it is a home or place of business)

• An individual may or may not have participated in stealing (also legally defined as “theft”)

• An individual did not have prior permission to enter said premise, but did so anyway

• An individual has entered a home or place of business that is occupied or at some point, is occupied by other persons

Is Burglary of Habitation a Law in Other States Throughout the Country?

While the specific phrase "burglary of habitation" is not commonly utilized in other states throughout the United States, burglary is in many ways, is an identical charge that is recognized. In all other states throughout the U.S., “burglary of habitation” is simplified through the charges of “burglary” or “theft” (depending on what has taken place once a location has been burglarized or entered unlawfully). In many instances in the state of Texas, “burglary of habitation” carries similar punishments for those caught burglarizing as traditional burglary charges in other states.

Protecting Your Home from Potential Thieves and Burglars

If you are concerned about the overall safety and security of your home regardless of the community you currently live in, consider installing a smart home security system with cameras. With the right security cameras, DVR systems, and assistance available from a professional company, adding protection to your home has never been easier.

Security cameras and systems prominently displayed both indoors and outside of a property are drastically capable of deterring potential thieves and burglars from committing a crime or targeting your home or place of business. When a burglar is looking to steal or enter a property, they often do so by “casing” a location or seeking opportunity where it is less likely to find themselves getting caught or confronted by homeowners with a security system actively in place. Whenever you are browsing for a new security camera or entire system, be sure to consider usability, functionality, and whether or not the system itself fits you and your family’s long-term needs.

Are you ready to take the next steps necessary to find the perfect monitored home security system?  Brinks Home™ can help get you and your household on the right track today!

Krista Bruton is a DFW-based writer who covers smart home security and consumer protection.