Three out of four burglaries in England and Wales went unsolved last year, so knowing what to do if your property is targeted is crucial. The experts at ADT have shared some advice on steps to take if you’ve been burgled.
Michele Bennett, general manager at ADT UK&I Subscriber, emphasized the importance of not touching anything after a burglary, as your home is now a crime scene. She advised calling the police on 101 to file a report and obtain a crime reference number for your insurance company. It’s also recommended to take photos, review any footage, make a list of stolen items, contact your insurance company, and cancel any cards that may have been taken.
After the initial shock of a burglary, it’s important to start putting the pieces back together. This may involve asking for help from friends and family, hiring someone to clean up, and securing your home by reviewing entry points and adding extra security measures.
In the following weeks, it’s important to replace any valuables that were stolen, review and amend your insurance coverage, and look into victim compensation if you’ve suffered financial losses or emotional distress as a result of the burglary. Remember, with time and effort, your home will start to feel like home again.