Whilst burglary rates may be falling, around one in 100 houses are burgled yearly with an average of 498 houses targeted between 2023-2024.
As home security may not be a current priority, especially in a quiet area, experts believe now is the perfect time to implement much-needed protection.
While burglary rates across England and Wales dropped by 3.5% last year, new research shows many homeowners could still be leaving themselves vulnerable.
Craig Morgan, Risk and Insurance Specialist at SJL, says “It’s reassuring to see areas spread across England and Wales making significant progress in reducing residential burglaries. This trend suggests that targeted crime prevention strategies and improved community awareness can have a real impact.
“However, lower break-in rates should not lead to complacency. With less than 6% of burglary cases leading to charges, there’s still a major gap in enforcement. Even in the safest regions, every homeowner should take proactive steps to protect their property and ensure they have the right cover in place.”
Craig’s top tips for preventing break-ins – even in the UK’s safest areas:
Upgrade Your Locks
“Ensure all external doors and windows have high-quality deadbolt locks. Consider anti-snap cylinders and ensure window locks are fitted and used regularly.”
Quality deadbolts and anti-snap cylinders are more resistant to tampering and can prevent forced entry.
Install Motion-Activated Lighting
“Outdoor sensor lights around entrances, pathways, and dark corners act as strong deterrents for would-be intruders.”
Motion-activated lights around driveways, porches and garden paths give the impression someone’s home and alert neighbours to movement. They’re also energy efficient and easy to install.
Use Smart Security Technology
“Invest in smart home security systems – including doorbell cameras, alarms, and remote monitoring apps that allow you to monitor your home in real-time and alert authorities quickly.”
Video doorbells, sensor alarms and real-time app notifications provide round-the-clock visibility. Many systems now allow remote access, meaning you can check in from anywhere at any time.
Don’t Overlook Home Insurance
“Even with strong security measures, break-ins can still happen. Having the right home insurance, including contents cover, ensures you’re financially protected if valuables are stolen, or property is damaged. Review your policy regularly to make sure it reflects the true value of your belongings. Underinsurance is more common than many realise.”
Go over your cover regularly to avoid underinsurance. Look out for high-value item limits and make sure contents cover includes theft and accidental damage.
Avoid Advertising Your Absence
“In safer areas, it’s easy to forget that opportunistic criminals still exist. Use timer switches and keep holiday plans off social media to avoid attracting unwanted attention.”
Timer switches can mimic occupancy and asking a neighbour to keep an eye out while you’re away can make a big difference.
Recent figures from SJL Insurance Services revealed the top three safest locations to live in the UK right now based on a reduction in residential burglaries.
Ranking as the most secure residential area is Merseyside experiencing a 27% drop in break ins between in 2024, West Merica placed second for security seeing a 25% change in home burglaries, whilst Derbyshire followed closely behind in third with a 24% drop in the number of targeted attacks on their homes.
