A garage door opener remote is a very efficient and convenient way to enter and exit your garage without having to leave your vehicle. However, with all the advantages these devices bring, there is one disadvantage that many people don’t think about.
Your remote control can be stolen or misused! What if someone stole your garage door opener’s remote control? How would you be able to gain access to your home? How would you stop someone else from using the remote to enter your garage? This article aims to give you some tips on steps you can take if your garage door remote has been stolen.
Was Your Garage Door Remote Stolen?
If so, do not panic! As much as you might want to, do not just go out and purchase a new one. Instead, you need to contact your garage door opener’s manufacturer immediately. The reason? The new remote could still be under warranty.
If your garage door opener remote is still under warranty, the garage door opener manufacturer should send over a replacement right away. If it’s not under warranty, there might still be hope. You should speak with the manufacturer and explain your situation. The important thing to remember is that you need to keep all your purchase records, including receipts and manuals.
Take Digital Photos of All Parts of the Door and Opener System
If your door is not under warranty, there’s no need to fret. An experienced garage door repair company can assist you with the remote replacement. Take digital photos of all parts of the door and opener system. You will need to have clear and recent photographs of your garage door to get a new garage door opener remote compatible with your garage door. Not all garage door openers remote controls work the same.
Make sure you have taken pictures of different angles of the garage door and garage door opener. You may also want to include a picture of the garage door opener remote if you have one. If you do not have a digital camera, you can use your cell phone or another electronic device with a built-in camera function.
Notify the Police and File a Report
If the remote for your garage door is stolen, you should notify the police and file a report. The crime can be reported in person at your local police station or over the phone by calling the non-emergency number. You should also file a copy of the police report with your homeowner’s insurance provider to cover any claims that may result from the theft.
Call a Locksmith if Necessary
If your garage door opener has been stolen and your house keys were also stolen,it is prudent to call a locksmith to replace the locks in your home. Without taking this step, you could be leaving your home open to break-ins. The most important reason to change the locks on your home when the remote for your garage door and keys are stolen is to protect yourself and your family from intruders.
If someone has stolen your garage door remote, they now have access to your garage and possibly your possessions. This is especially dangerous if you store personal items or valuables in your garage. In addition, if you have a door connecting the garage with the rest of the house, you need to have that lock changed as well. If a criminal gains access to the garage, they could potentially walk straight into your home.
Change Your Garage Door Code
It is not unheard of to have your garage door remote stolen. However, it is a good idea to change the code on your garage door when this does happen. Doing this will prevent future break-ins and protect yourself from having things stolen from your garage. It is also recommended to change the code to your garage door every six months.
Ask Your Neighbors if They Saw Anything
If your garage door remote was stolen, the first thing to do is call the police. You also should ask your neighbors if they saw anything.
Of course, it’s possible that your neighbors saw nothing and have no information whatsoever. However, they could also have information that may help capture the thieves. The only way to find out is to ask.
Homeowners Trust Door-Mart Garage Doors for Opener Remote Services
With their ubiquitous presence and high price point, garage door opener remotes make a tempting target for thieves. While most thieves don’t target garage door remotes like other belongings, it is still a good idea to take precautionary measures to protect your remote from getting stolen.
If garage security is troubling you, contact our team at Door-Mart Garage Doors to put your worries to rest. We can take care of all your garage door repair and replacement remote needs. Our experts can guide you regarding the right technology, features, and functionality in garage door openers. Most brands offer new technological features like wireless keypads, dip switches, and more. You can even get a garage door opener app for your phone.
Call us at 800-829-9833 today or reach us online for all your garage door needs.
