Home Burglary Stats and Facts

Burglars tend to avoid homes with security systems – A burglary takes place every 40 seconds in the UK and your property is five times more likely to be burgled if it has no security measures in place. The presence of a security system will influenced a burglars decision to target your home.

The majority of break-ins are committed by burglars who live nearby – The typical burglar resides within two miles of the target home. Because they live close, it’s easy for them to learn your family’s daily schedule and strike when they know you’re not home. They may also check for signs that you’re away from home.

Preventative Tip: To help minimise the risk of a burglary, vary your routine as much as possible and have someone take care of your home when you’re out of town.

Most criminals can burgle a home in less than ten minutes – Burglars look for homes that are easy targets. That’s why it doesn’t take long for most intruders to break into a house, get what they want, and take off before being noticed.

Preventative Tip: Strengthen your home’s defence by getting a home security system installed, keep all entrances closed and locked and install a high quality front door.

Burglars usually go to the master bedroom first – Unfortunately, most people don’t hide their valuable items carefully, and burglars know it. Once they break in, burglars usually head straight for the master bedroom, where they scavenge through cabinets and drawers, look under mattresses, and search wardrobes. Cash, jewellery, high value electronic items and car keys are some of the things a burglar wants most from your home.  

Preventative Tip: Store your valuables in a safe that’s bolted to the floor, or hide them in unlikely locations.

Someone is home during nearly three out of every ten burglaries – Coming home to find your material possessions stolen is frightening enough, but victims who are home when the burglary occurs experience even more trauma. Someone is home in around 28% of burglaries, it’s one of the most traumatic things to think about but someone is typically home in nearly 3 out of every 10 burglaries.

Preventative Tip: Try and keep all windows and doors locked even when you’re home to avoid anyone using them to gain access. It may also be helpful to keep your security system on when you’re home alone.