Clocks go back this weekend – how to avoid becoming a victim of burglary

It’s the end of British Summer Time this weekend as the clocks go back, marking the start of the long dark winter nights. With the dark time providing ideal cover for opportunistic burglars how can you avoid becoming a victim?

Being a victim of a burglary is not just about the financial cover offered by having the best home insurance, it’s the emotional impact of having items of sentimental value stolen.

As Darren Black, head of home insurance at Confused.com, says ‘people need to take steps which will deter any would-be thieves in the area’.

He added ‘The harder you make it for the opportunistic thief, the more likely they are to move on.’

Steps you can take include:

• Keep valuables out of sight – if you can have blinds or netting at windows to make it more difficult to see in
• Make sure you have and use effective window and door locks
• Install and use a burglar alarm – if a burglar sees a house with a burglar alarm they are more likely to move on
• Don’t leave such as bins or ladders in conveninent positions to help thieves gain access to your house

You also need to make sure your home insurance meets your requirements and that the limits set on specified items are enough to cover their value.

If you are the unfortunate victim of a burglary you need to

• Report the burglary to the Police and get a crime reference number
• Advise your insurer and wherever you can submit receipts for stolen possessions and if you have any photos submit those too
• Change locks if any keys were stolen

Do make sure you shop around for the best home insurance and compare policies to get the best cover to meet your needs.