Avoid needing to claim on your home insurance this summer

April 19, 2011 - PRLog -- A study published by Civitas last year revealed that England and Wales have a worst crime rate than the US – meaning it’s never been more important to be on your guard if you want to avoid the need to claim on your home insurance.

With the summer approaching – the time when crimes such as burglaries and robberies tend to peak – DIY Newbie is reminding all homeowners to put security at the top of their agenda.

While it’s impossible to give your home 100% protection – anyone can be unfortunate enough to become a victim of crime – there are ways you can reduce your risk of becoming another statistic. Here’s our top 3 tips:

1. Pay close attention to your doors
Although the stereotype is of burglars climbing through windows, in many cases they get in simply because people are careless with their doors. Given that doors tend to be left open more often in the summer, this makes them a more viable route to your possessions for a burglar. For this reason, make sure that all doors are locked behind you, including patio doors. Although this can be a bit of a hassle, it’ll pay off if it stops and opportunist half-inching your stuff.

2. Do the same with your windows
It’s normal that your windows will be open more in the summer to allow air to circulate, but this can be all a burglar needs to invite him in. For this reason, never leave windows open in a room you’re not in, especially if it’s downstairs. Fit window locks for extra security.

3. Invest in taller fences and more secure gates
Stopping a thief getting access to your property in the first place could be your best plan of action. A common tactic for burglars is to jump over fences looking for an unlocked door – so make sure that your fence is one they cannot jump. Putting locked gates at the front of your property will also be a deterrent

Of course, spending a little money on your home security will also have a key knock on effect of bringing down your home contents insurance premiums. The more secure your home, the less you’ll pay generally – insurers like alarms, locks and secure windows and doors, meaning your premiums should end being cheaper as a result. Which, of course, will allow you to enjoy your annual fun in the sun with the peace of mind that your home’s looked after.