After a break-in, it is tempting to wedge the door shut and deal with it later. There are good reasons not to wait.
1. Repeat break-ins are common
A home that was entered once, especially through a door that is still visibly damaged, is an obvious target. Burglars sometimes return for items they could not carry the first time, or because they know the door will not resist.
2. Insurance and documentation
Insurers generally expect you to prevent further loss. Photograph the damage, report to police, then have the door secured and keep the invoice. Waiting can complicate a claim if more damage or loss follows.
3. Damage gets worse
A split jamb or bent frame lets water and cold in, and the door may sag further. What starts as a strike repair can become a frame or door replacement if left for weeks.
Temporary versus permanent
A same-night repair makes the door secure; a permanent repair restores its full strength, often with a reinforced strike and frame so the same method will not work again. If keys were taken, rekey every lock they fit.
Our Toronto team operates 24/7: break-in repair.
What to secure first
After a break-in, secure the opening: a door that cannot latch or a frame that is split gives no protection at all. A temporary reinforcement or board-up can buy time until proper repairs are made.
Why waiting can cost more
Water and cold can damage the frame, and insecure openings invite another attempt. Insurers often expect reasonable steps to protect the property after a loss.
How to plan the repair
Photograph the damage, get an itemized quote and ask what is temporary and what is permanent. Ask the technician to check the strike, hinges and frame, not just the lock. See rekeying a new home and vacation security for related steps.