Autumn is peak season for home insurance burglary claims
Analysis by MoneySuperMarket reveals the highest rate of insurance claims for burglaries happen between September and November, with the number of claims 10 per cent higher than in spring, when they are at their lowest.
MoneySuperMarket analysed over 2.7 million home insurance quotes run on the site from July 2014 to June 2015, taking into account claims for burglary made within the last three years. Overall, 2.1 per cent of policy holders using the website had made a claim on their home insurance for a burglary, with the rate rising to 2.26 per cent in autumn, compared to 2.06 per cent in spring.
Dan Plant, consumer finance expert at MoneySuperMarket said: "Being burgled is a terrifying and disruptive experience that too many people go through. Not only is a burglary a complete invasion of privacy, but a violation of the place we should feel safest.
“Our research has found the autumn months see Brits making the highest rate of claims on their home insurance for burglary. As the darker nights roll in, this shows it’s crucial for everyone to think about security measures for their home, to prevent burglaries and protect themselves from opportunistic thieves.
“It is also hugely important to have home insurance in place to provide the support needed in the event of a burglary. Annual buildings and contents insurance is available for £132 a year on average, not a huge amount to pay for peace of mind, especially as this can often get you an unlimited amount of content cover. When running a quote, it’s important to put in as close a figure as you think is accurate for the value of contents you have in your home, so you have enough cover, and also don’t pay over the odds for something you don’t need.”
How to make your home safe:
Install timers on your lights to come on when you are not home
Ensure items of value are kept away from easy view through windows
Install a suitable alarm system
Fit robust locks on doors and windows and make sure you use them every time you go out, and at night when the family is in bed
Contact your local police to see if they offer home visits to advise about security
Make sure your property is not easily accessible – improve fencing or put up a gate
Make sure your home contents insurance is fully up to date and is at a high enough level to cover all your belongings sufficiently - opportunistic thieves could strike at any time
Ensure you are compliant with everything your insurer outlines in your policy. Some policies have certain security requirements that will be a condition of your insurance cover. If you’re unsure then call your provider for more detail.