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Home burglaries up over winter

Christina Hoghton
Written By:
Christina Hoghton
Posted:
Updated:
01/11/2015

Home burglaries rise during the winter months, according to mortgage lender Halifax.

Home burglaries rise over the winter months and household insurance claims go through the roof, according to Halifax.

It says that the number of burglary claims increased by a quarter last year, as homeowners looked to recovers costs of an average of £2,178 per claim.

The firm recorded 4,175 winter burglary claims in 2014, up 24% compared to the summer months, and is now urging insurer households to act now to secure their home against potential thieves.

Martyn Foulds, senior claims manager at Halifax Insurance, said: “We saw winter burglaries increase by almost a quarter last year compared to the summer months, likely due to the cover of darkness making life easier for unwelcome house visitors. We know burglars look for the easiest option, so it’s a good idea to beef up home security to avoid falling victim.”

“Prevention is better than cure, as items of sentimental value may be irreplaceable, but checking your home insurance cover is up to date is another small step that could go a long way towards protecting your property.”

Tips from Halifax include keeping doors and windows locked, even when at home, installing security lights as well as a British standard approved burglar alarm, and using light timer switches if you go away to make it look as though someone is at home.

It also suggests that a friend or neighbour collects your mail if you go on holiday, so you avoid a tell-tale pile of letters, and ensuring that your home buildings and contents cover is fully up to date.