How to keep your home safe from burglars in 10 easy steps

According to the Office for National Statistics, there were 192,060 home burglaries reported in England and Wales in 2021/22; this equates to an average of 526 burglaries a day, with a house burgled every 164 seconds. Most burglaries occurred in the London Metropolitan area, followed by Greater Manchester and West Midlands, with the least occurring in the Dyfed-Powys area of Wales.

Interesting facts

The following facts make interesting reading:

Burglars entered through the door in 70% of cases, with only 30% entering through the window
Someone was at home when the burglar gained access in over 50% of domestic incidents, ·
16% of burglaries take place on a weekday with 12% at a weekend
40% take place in the daytime, between 6am and 6pm
60% occur in the evening or between 6pm and 6am.

Protecting your home

It takes seven seconds for a professional burglar to decide if your home is an easy target. If you know when, where and how house burglaries are most likely to occur, you can go a long way to protecting your premises and possessions. Here, we look at ten ways to protect your home from burglars (some may sound obvious, but it is surprising how many people overlook them):

1. Don’t leave house or car keys visible – you don’t want to give burglars entry and supply the getaway vehicle.

2. Keep doors locked – a lock is the first thing a burglar may check, so don’t make it easy for them.

3. Fit strong locks, ideally deadlocks on doors and a safety chain. Close and lock windows and doors when you leave the house. (Secure sliding glass doors with a wooden dowel placed in the door track.)

4. Remove keys from locks - letterboxes and cat flaps can be used to ‘fish’ for keys.

5. Don’t store ladders or tools outside or in an unlocked shed – they give burglars an easy way to break into your home. Keep gardens clutter-free and sheds locked.

6. Invest in a good quality alarm fitted professionally and regularly tested – burglars know which are best to avoid. You could also have a camera fitted for remote viewing.

7. Never leave valuables on display - keep everything out of sight and even in a locked safe. Burglars want to get in and out quickly, so don’t make it easy.

8. Mark valuables with your postcode using a security pen – it makes it easier to return stolen goods to you.

9. Be careful what you post on social media. You don’t want to advertise that you’re away or on holiday. Wait until you get home before you share pictures.

10. Leave lights on when you’re away, giving the impression you are at home, using timer switches if you’re away for any length of time

Talk to NLIG
A few simple measures is all it takes to help keep your property safe and secure. To discuss any aspect of home insurance, whether a quotation, renewal or amendment, please don’t hesitate to get in touch – our business is your protection. Call NLIG on 01992 703300, or email insurance@nlig.co.uk