Burglary Prevention Tips for UK Homes¶

Actionable daily habits and low-cost upgrades that dramatically reduce your burglary risk.

Daily Habits That Deter Burglars¶

ONS data shows 56 % of burglaries happen while the occupant is out. Simple habits make a difference: lock doors and windows even when home, use a timer switch for lights (from £8 at B&Q), and never leave spare keys under doormats or plant pots - 14 % of burglars enter via a hidden key. According to Secured by Design, homes with visible security measures are 50 % less likely to be targeted. Keep hedges below 1 m at the front to eliminate hiding spots.

Cost-Effective Security Upgrades¶

A Yale Smart Alarm starter kit costs £150 - £250 and includes door/window sensors plus a 100 dB siren. Window locks from ERA (from £12 each) meet British Standard 7950. A Banham night latch (from £90) is certified by the Locksmiths' Association. The Home Office advises displaying a police-approved 'Secured by Design' sticker prominently. Combined, these measures can cut burglary risk by up to 50 % and unlock insurer discounts of 10 - 20 % with providers like Churchill and LV=.

Specifications and Comparison¶

Measure	Cost	Risk Reduction
Visible alarm system	£150 - £300	50 %
Window locks (per window)	£10 - £25	40 %
Timer switches	£8 - £30	25 %
PIR security light	£20 - £55	63 %

FAQ¶

What is the single most-effective deterrent?: A visible alarm box - even a dummy one - cuts burglary risk by 50 %.
Do UK police recommend specific brands?: Yes - look for 'Secured by Design' accreditation on Yale, Banham, and ERA products.
Does leaving a light on at night help?: Yes - timer switches make the home look occupied, which deters 63 % of burglars. For more information see our Home Security Audit Checklist UK.

Last updated: 2026-05-31.

External Resources¶

For further information consult authority guidelines at the Electrical Safety First.