Home and office burglaries are a stark reality in the UK; a harrowing experience that occurs every 106 seconds. The Office for National Statistics reveals that, on average, a residential burglary in the UK costs about £3,030, with more than one-third of that being the emotional toll on victims.

More than half of burglaries happen when someone is at home. The same statistics show that 63 percent of burglaries target properties without basic security systems. 

Opportunity is a critical factor in facilitating various crimes, with burglaries being no exception. Most residential break-ins are carried out by opportunistic criminals who carefully select their targets. 

Criminals tend to seek out homes that appear vacant, lack visible security measures, or have unlocked doors or windows. Houses situated in locations where their activities are less likely to be observed can also easily become targets. 

According to the Office for National Statistics, 77 percent of people with at least a basic security system enjoy protection from burglaries. This number makes it crucial for every property owner to explore effective strategies to reduce theft risk significantly.

Invest in a home security alarm

A 2012 survey by the University of North Carolina at Charlotte revealed that 60 percent of burglars surveyed refrained from targeting properties equipped with alarms. Similarly, in a 2017 survey conducted by the Co-op, 12 burglars cited the presence of a camera as their most significant deterrent.

Installing a home alarm system becomes the most dependable and effective means to prevent burglary attempts. Especially with technological advancement in recent years, the vigilant system of the alarm is ready to alert property owners and authorities the moment any unauthorised entry is detected. 

Taking an extra step and installing security cameras, preferably with night vision and a network video recorder (NVR) to store video recordings, is even better.

Double-lock all windows and doors

While installing a high-quality security alarm system is key, a property would not be much safer than having a double lock on all doors and windows. The importance of double-locking all possible entries becomes apparent as Michael Fraser, a former burglar turned security expert, explains how burglars assess potential targets.

“Opportunists will look at a row of houses, and if they only have one lock on the front door, you know you’re going to get into that place,” Fraser said.

Fraser also points out that burglars can verify whether double locks are in use. Putting their foot on the front door lets them know whether the lock has been engaged or left unused.

Double locks spread the impact of a forced entry across the frame, making the door more robust. Dog-bolts and hinge-bolts work in the same way.

Keep home visible

Contrary to the instinct to shroud a property in secrecy, keeping a home visible from the street is a pivotal security measure. Security experts call this ‘natural surveillance’. Dense foliage, towering fences, or high walls seem like a good idea, but they provide burglars with cover and easy access to your premises. Threat actors do not like to be seen as they are committing a crime, and therefore exploiting natural surveillance is advised. 

At the front, opt for fences around one meter in height. These lower barriers allow for unobstructed views and eliminate hiding spots. Meanwhile, consider installing trellises or thorny plants and topping fences or gates with anti-climb devices like plastic spikes to deter climbers. 

Plant prickly shrubbery along boundaries and fence lines to create a natural deterrent. Property owners can also choose gravel driveways and paths to ensure they hear approaching footsteps. 

Install timed and motion sensor lighting

Motion detectors serve as powerful deterrents against burglars. Install them at entry points and in shadowy areas around the property. For optimal outdoor lighting, choose clear, low-intensity white lights that activate from dusk to dawn, ensuring visibility in your yard and garden.

For indoor lights, it is recommended to employ automatic plug-in timers for lamps or lights to create the illusion of an occupied home when the owner is away. Opt for energy-efficient LED bulbs to reduce electricity consumption and minimise fire hazards. Consider motion-sensing low-energy lights for communal areas like corridors, stairwells, and parking spaces in multi-unit buildings.