Take action to protect your property this summer

Tysers, a leading independent Lloyd’s broker and a member of the AUB Group, warns that household burglaries increase as more homeowners leave their properties vacant for summer vacations and days out.

Housebreaking in Scotland increased 3% over the past year from 8,796 crimes in 2022-23 to 9,033 in 2023-24[1].

“Now is the perfect time to review your home security, particularly if you have holidays booked or plan to spend longer outside of the house. With this in mind, we have compiled some helpful tips for homeowners,” advises Sam Towler, Client Director, North of England & Scotland at Tysers Retail.

Secure your home

• Door locks should meet BS3621 security standards, a lock standard by British Standards Institute (BSI) for thief-resistant locks. The British Standard Kitemark (BSI) and standard number (e.g. BS3621) should be viewable on the faceplate of the lock when opening.
• Windows should be secured by key operated locks.
• A ‘bells only’ alarm system can be useful to deter burglars, but those with high-value properties should invest in a monitored alarm system.
• Consider motion activated security lighting for the exterior of your property.

Don’t advertise your house as empty

• Don’t put your holiday plans on social media or announce that you are away on answer machine messages.
• Cancel milk and paper deliveries and don’t let post pile up – consider using the Royal Mail Keepsafe service.
• Don’t leave curtains drawn – instead move valuables out of easy sight of windows.
• Create the impression you’re at home with security timer switches or smart lighting.

Don’t forget the shed

The value of property kept in sheds and outbuildings is ever increasing and also provides burglars with tools that could help them gain entry to the main property.

• Concentrate on external entry points – consider using deadlocks and a locking bar with close shackle padlock on sheds and garage doors and fit grilles or bars to windows.
• Secure tools and ladders so that they cannot be used to break into the main property.
• Keep bikes covered so they are not visible from windows.
• Ensure cars are stored in a locked garage where possible and fitted with immobiliser alarms or anti-theft systems.

Read more home security tips here: https://www.tysers.com/summer-home-security-tips/

[1] https://www.gov.scot/publications/recorded-crime-scotland-2023-24