5 steps for extra security

  1. Register your valuables with Immobilise

    Immobilise is a national property register, set up to get stolen items back to their original owners. From phones to bikes, you can register most types of valuable items.

    If the police recover your stolen item, and it’s fitted with an Immobilise tag, they can run it through their nationwide system and return it back to you.

    Find out more or register for Immobilise.

  2. Change your locks when you move in

    Until you’ve changed your locks, you can’t be sure who has keys to your property.

    It also gives you the chance to make your home more secure by installing a different type of lock. Many insurers want to know what kind of locks you have in your home and it could save you money on your premiums if you change to a more secure system. See the Master Locksmith Association’s recommendations.

    By upgrading your locks, you will have the security of knowing exactly who has access to your property, and that your doors are more secure.

  3. Keep valuables out of sight

    A lot of theft is opportunistic – meaning criminals see an open window or valuable item within reach and make the most of it.

    That means you need to avoid making your home a target. Remove valuables from the view of ground floor windows, and don’t leave car keys or mobile phones near the front door. If you lock up your bike outside your home, make sure it’s attached to something that can’t be moved.

    You can also buy contents insurance to protect against theft of your possessions or buildings insurance to safeguard against malicious damage to the building itself.

  4. Don’t make it easy for them

    That means spotting ways a criminal could break into your home. Have a quick look around the outside and ask yourself:

    • Are there locks on all your windows?
    • How easy would it be to get into your garage?
    • Have you locked your side gates with a padlock?
    • Have you locked away tools and ladders?
    • Are all fences in good condition?
  5. Get into good habits

    A big part of home security is getting into good habits – and stopping the bad ones.

    Do you leave a spare set of keys under the doormat or a flowerpot? Do you sometimes forget to lock doors and windows? Think about which habits are putting your home at risk. It’s about making sure you’re not giving thieves easy access to your property.

    The Neighbourhood Watch scheme is a great community resource to help keep your home and neighbourhood safe. For more information and to find your local scheme, visit Neighbourhood Watch.

    For more home safety and crime prevention tips, visit CrimeStoppers and Police.uk.