Although burglary rates have fallen steadily over the past decade, becoming a victim is traumatic, disruptive, and generally expensive to rectify.
The good news is that there are various ways to make your home safer by considering each possible entry point, such as doors and windows, to see how they could be improved.
“If you’d like to get a burglar alarm, take a look at our burglar alarm reviews and advice on buying the best burglar alarm for your home.”
How good is your home security?
As well as opportunistic burglaries, some burglars scope out a property beforehand, sometimes working with other criminals. It’s important to think about measures to ensure your home looks occupied at all times and that there aren’t any clear places where a potential burglar could hide to assess the house.
Also, avoid making it obvious that you are away on holiday. Consider using lights on timers or getting a friend or neighbor to occasionally check on your home. Avoid mentioning your travel plans on public-facing social media accounts.
In addition, ask yourself:
– Are windows and doors left open, even if they’re not easily accessible?
– Do your windows and doors have visible locks?
– Is there a spare key that’s easily visible or easy to find?
– Do you have high walls and hedges that could give burglars protection from being seen?
– Is accessing your house noisy for a burglar?
– Are there any ladders lying around that a burglar could use?
– How secure is the shed or garage?
How does a burglar scope a house?
We’ve surveyed ex-burglars and spoken to security experts to discover exactly what puts them off, including everything from dogs to different alarm brands.
Burglars look for weaknesses in your security, starting with the front of your house. They look for signs that you aren’t security conscious, such as doors with single cylinder locks or a lack of window locks. They also look out for tell-tale mistakes, such as keys left in a back door or window locks with keys still inside.
A burglar will look for tools left lying around, check if sheds or outbuildings are properly secured, and target detached houses for ease of access. Terraced houses are trickier due to more people around and limited escape routes.
Once a burglar has chosen a property to target, they will often scope it out for two or three days. This could involve going through your rubbish for personal information, searching online for contact details, or checking your social media presence.
Opportunists may visit a promising neighborhood and break in the same day. One tactic is to pretend to be from an energy company if someone answers the door.
What puts burglars off?
In our survey, we asked what puts burglars off. The top five things were:
– 71% having a burglar alarm system
– 71% having a dog in the home
– 52% people in the property
– 46% CCTV
– 21% outdoor/sensor lights
There are various ways to protect your home, some costing little or nothing. Here are our top tips:
Visible burglar alarm:
If you have a burglar alarm system, make sure the external sounder or ‘bell box’ is clearly visible on your property to deter potential burglars.
Door security:
Use strong screws when fitting locks to windows or doors and ensure they meet British Standard BS7950. Retrofitting UPVC doors with locks could weaken them.
Window security:
Don’t leave windows open or unlocked. Consider double glazing for easily accessible windows and use locks that secure the window to the frame.
Security lighting:
Outdoor lights can deter burglars by making them more visible. Indoor timers can create the illusion of occupancy. Make sure lights are directed downwards and won’t disturb neighbors.
CCTV and wireless home security cameras:
CCTV or wireless cameras can be an extra security measure. Consider models for both indoor and outdoor use. Smart doorbells can also enhance security.
Burglar-proof your garden:
Gravel around your home can deter burglars. Trim hedges for visibility, plant thorny shrubs at borders, and secure gates or fences with trellising.
Smoke alarms and carbon dioxide monitors:
Install smoke alarms and carbon monoxide monitors for additional safety measures. Protect personal information and online presence to prevent identity theft.
Home insurance and home security:
Most insurers require a minimum level of security before offering insurance. Ensure locks meet standards and consider installing a burglar alarm to potentially reduce insurance costs.
For more information on home insurance policies and companies in the UK, check out the best home insurance options available.