Everest industry news
Keep burglars at bay with window and door locks
01 May 2008
Direct Line is urging homeowners to install adequate door and window locks to keep burglars at bay.Andrew Lowe, the firm's head of home insurance, also insists that a professionally-fitted alarm is the best complement to strong locks.
Outdoor lighting is also a good way of "illuminated potential points of entry" and keeping thieves at bay, he said. Ground level rear doors and unlocked windows are prime targets.
"It is important to ensure you have the right locks fitted to your doors and windows to reduce the risk of being robbed by an opportunistic burglar," said the home insurance expert.
"Ideally, homeowners should have a professionally fitted and maintained burglar alarm, key-operated windows locks and five-lever mortice door locks as well as adequate outdoor lighting."
Consumers are also urged to keep valuables out of sight, as these make breaking in all the more appealing to criminals.
"People should make sure they don't leave credit cards, keys and personal documents out in the open as replacing these items is often difficult and can also result in ID theft," Mr Lowe noted.
Insurance companies will tend to cover broken doors and windows, though thieves will have trouble breaking through double glazing - which is another recommended home improvement.
