Coulter Hurst Newsletter
Home security tips to beat the burglar
As a specialist broker experienced in dealing with clients with higher value homes and contents, we know the distress that having a break-in causes. The recession has led to a sharp rise in theft-related insurance claims in 2009, and we would like to remind our clients of the appropriate measures to protect their homes and possessions.
We believe that despite the current gloomy economic climate, that many clients may have more to lose relative to previous recessions if their homes are burgled. The recent period of prosperity enjoyed by British home owners in the last decade and the rise of a consumer culture has led individuals to accumulate more valuable personal possessions, jewellery, watches and fine art.
The following advice may help you beat the burglar as the credit crunch crime wave bites:
· Use the security you have - over 60% of burglaries happen because people don’t use the security protection they already have. In one third of all house burglaries, thieves get through an open door or window without forcing an entry. Front doors should be solid and have five lever mortice deadlocks and hinge bolts fitted. This prevents thieves using credit cards to gain entry. Get all outside doors fitted with good key-operated security locks and bolt. Consider installing a security spy hole viewer so you can check the identity of callers
· Don’t leave valuables, including gadgets, lying around. Mobile phones, i-pods, portable sound systems, games consoles (such as Wii players), are rich pickings for thieves.
· Leave your car keys upstairs or not on display.
· Install a safe for your most valuable items. You may find having two safes useful as in the event that you are forced to open one, the other can remain hidden. Store less valuable items in the first safe.
· Hire reputable trades people if carrying out works on your home and, for bigger projects, ensure sub-contractors are supervised by a professional project manager if you are unable to do so yourself.
· Consider installing movement activated or dawn to dusk lights at the front and back of your home as they will help to deter prowlers.
Finally, it is important to check, what your insurance policy covers in the event you are burgled. This includes checking single item limits on valuables such as jewellery, cover for fine art and damage to the home as a result of breaking and entering, for example. If you have any query regarding your existing policy, please call us on 0151 255 1999.
Lisa Roberts
Director
