Lax security opens the door to burglars

Properties across the UK are being left ripe for burglary this Spring as nearly six million homeowners reveal they can break into their own home.

New research from Zurich Insurance shows that a third of homeowners surveyed (32 per cent) believe they could break into their own home - and one in ten have actually done so.

Shockingly, the study reveals that among those who have broken into their own home, two-thirds (67 per cent) did so in less than 15 minutes, with more than a quarter (28 per cent) able to do so in under five minutes. And apparently it's as simple as climbing through an open window (37 per cent) while the more resourceful have retrieved a key with a makeshift hook (four per cent).

The findings come as Zurich launches a new website, BreakinBritain.co.uk, which offers users a burglar's-eye-view of their property, highlighting the common security risks in the home.

Despite nearly half of those who have broken into their own home (48 per cent) saying they are concerned by the ease with which this was done, many reveal that their home security is often compromised simply by their, or their family's, own lax attitudes. One in six (17 per cent) say that forgetfulness jeopardises their property, whilst 15 per cent think that complacency increases their property's risk. Over half the homeowners surveyed (57 per cent) admit to basic security lapses, such as leaving windows open while going out (12 per cent) and leaving keys in locks (18 per cent).

The study also included a separate survey of burglars, with the majority (87 per cent) saying that most break-ins are actually opportunistic. The most common mistakes householders make include leaving a window open, not having a burglar alarm, making it obvious that the house is empty and leaving the backdoor open or unlocked, giving burglars an open invitation to enter the house.

Deterrents the ex-lags say put them off include simple measures such as installing window locks on old windows, keeping valuables out of site, putting lights on a timer switch and having external security lights.

Reassuringly, traditional British neighbourly values are still prominent as deterrents to criminals as well, with over half (56 per cent) of homeowners saying they get a neighbour to check on their properties daily when they are away. Two fifths (39 per cent) also get their neighbours to pick up their post and other deliveries - a wise move, as two thirds of burglars (64 per cent) said this simple step would deter them from targeting homes.

Reformed criminal, now probation officer, Bob Turney, agrees that thieves look to capitalise on householders mistakes: "Burglars want an easy way in - and most burglaries are simply a result of thieves taking advantage of householders who've left their homes wide open and there for the taking. Windows left open, shoddy locks, or when it's blatantly obvious that people are away are some of the most common mistakes made.

"And if you know that your home security isn't what it should be and can break into your own property in less than five minutes, a professional burglar can do it in half the time."

Mike Quinton, Managing Director for Direct & Partnerships at Zurich Insurance said: "If homeowners can break-in to their own properties that's a major warning sign for them to take stock of their security measures. Breakinbritain.co.uk can really help people see how burglars might look at their property. We've also thrown in some hints and tips on how to keep their property safe. While you don't need to turn your house into a fortress, it is always important to take proper precautions and update your home security."