Holiday misery

One in ten (9%) homes have been burgled whilst the occupants have been on holiday, away for the weekend or just on a day trip, according to research from Churchill Home Insurance. The total value of items stolen averaged £3,288 per incident.

Claire Foster, spokesperson for Churchill Insurance, commented: "Arriving back from a holiday or a quick break to discover your home has been broken into is an awful experience for anyone to endure. Whilst insurance cannot prevent burglary, it can provide reassurance that the monetary value of anything stolen is covered."

The survey supports the current trend of a decline in the traditional TV and stereo theft as thieves are opting to take portable, easy to carry, high value items. DVDs/CDs/videos (44%), jewellery (43%) and money, cheque books and credit cards (42%) are the most popular items stolen, closely followed by electrical items.

Thankfully these items can be covered by home insurance. However, some items, especially those of particular sentimental value, could well be irreplaceable making home security measures of even greater importance. Almost one in five (19%) have had family heirlooms stolen from their home whilst they were away and 28% were emotionally attached to the items claiming they had held ‘great memories.'

Claire Foster concludes: "We would urge homeowners to ensure their contents insurance is fully up to date and high value items are individually listed. Plus, there are a few simple home security steps that can help keep homes and their contents protected."

Churchill's top tips for home security

Open curtains and take in newspapers, post and milk before you leave in the morning (remember to cancel orders if you are away for a few days)

Don't leave valuable items in view while you are out

If you are away for longer than 30 days in a row, put items into storage as they may not be covered

Ask a friend or neighbour that you trust to check on your property and collect the mail while you are away

Explain to all those who have access including friends, family, gardener or cleaner how to lock up properly and leave your home secure

Ensure gates and outbuildings are locked

Reduce the chance of opportunistic thieves using ladders and tools you leave out in the open or in an unlocked shed to access your property

Ensure potential points of entry are well lit

Churchill covers up to £40,000 contents cover as standard, up to £12,000 high risk items not listed separately on the policy (such as jewellery and antiques) and up to £300 for money in the home.

For further details on Churchill Home Insurance, visit the following: churchill.com

For more information about Neighbourhood Watch and how it can help your area, visit the following: neighbourhoodwatch.net