Research commissioned by Co-op Insurance reveals that almost one in three (29%) homeowners admit that they’ve been the victims of theft from their home, whilst nearly one in eight (11%) say that they feel that their home is less secure when dark evenings set in during winter months.
Outside of London, those in the North-West of England were most likely to have experienced thefts from their home with almost two-fifths (37%) stating that they had been victims of this.
Meanwhile, over one in six (18%) have had a vehicle stolen from their home. Indeed, vehicle keys were among the possessions that homeowners would most want to protect from theft, along with personal documents, items of sentimental value and purses or wallets.
The top 10 items homeowners would most want to protect from theft
1. Personal documents
2. Vehicles/vehicle keys
3. Items of sentimental value
4. Purse/wallet/money
5. Smartphones
6. Jewellery
7. TV
8. Games consoles
9. Bikes/sports equipment
10 Clothing
However, over half of homeowners (54%) say that they’ve installed a security camera either inside or outside their home, with nine in ten (92%) admitting that having one in place makes them feel more secure. Conversely, of those who haven’t installed a security camera, more than three in five (62%) admit that it would make them feel more secure if they had one in place. The member-owned organisation also revealed that, so far in 2024, it has seen claims as high as almost £85,000 for theft from homes, meaning that those without the right cover or who failed to renew their cover, could face a significant financial impact. Alongside the financial impact, theft from homes can be extremely emotionally distressing. As such, the member-owned business is encouraging people to take precautions to keep their home secure ahead of the winter period.
Graham Ward-Lush, Head of Home at Co-op Insurance, said: “During the winter months, many people see their home as a sanctuary that allows them to escape the dark and cold weather. However, our research suggests that a significant number of Brits don’t feel as secure in their homes when the dark evenings set in, but that most people would feel less anxious with extra security features. Whether it’s leaving lights on a timer, installing a security camera or simply making sure your windows and doors are locked, we’re encouraging homeowners to take extra steps to ensure that their possessions are kept safe, and homes remain secure this winter.”
Co-op Insurance has also shared the following tips to protect your home during the winter months:
Leave a light on when out or invest in a light timer
Install exterior security lights at the front and back of your property
Invest in a CCTV system, if possible
Don’t post locations on social media sites
Make sure doors and windows are locked
Set burglar alarms
Ensure outbuildings/sheds are secured
Hide valuables from display
Never put car keys within reach of a letterbox
Don’t leave ladders outside your home
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