Making sure your home is adequately secured is just one way you can reduce your home insurance costs and decrease your risk of having to make a claim. By making just a few simple changes you could benefit from spending less on your building and contents insurance and gain peace of mind that your home and possessions are protected.
Top Tips:
• Burglar alarms and security lighting can help make your home more secure. Make sure your house looks occupied when you’re not there – use timer switches to activate lighting or the radio.
• Join your local Neighbourhood Watch scheme. You’ll get advice on all aspects of home security and may even qualify for a discount on your home insurance premiums.
• Be vigilant for bogus callers. Help yourself by installing a door chain or spy-hole so you can see who’s calling without opening the door. Depending on your circumstances you may even qualify for free installation – speak to your insurance provider for more information.
• Don’t leave large amounts of money or valuables in your home. If you have items of significant financial or sentimental value you could consider installing a safe.
• Look at your property from a burglar’s perspective. Could you access the property undetected because of high fencing or shrubbery? Make sure the front of your house is clearly visible from the street - neighbours and pedestrians will be able to spot anyone acting suspiciously.
• Think about not only the house itself, but sheds, garages, greenhouses and any other external structures. Fit padlocks, security lighting and even CCTV.
• Make sure your windows have enhanced security and are certified to British Standard BS7950. Doors should be fitted with a 5-lever mortise deadlock - deadlocks also ensure that if entry is gained by other means, burglars cannot carry out their haul through the door.
Remember:
• Many break-in’s occur through opportunity. Check that all doors and windows are locked when you’re not home. Be vigilant when you are home too, many opportunists can spot bags, mobile phones and car-keys and take them from under your nose.
• Don’t wait until the worst happens; act now and make sure you protect your biggest investment and its contents.
Read our home insurance articles and guides for more great topics or get a home insurance quote.