Everest industry news

29 April 2008

One in three homeowners believe they could break into their own homes within minutes, according to new research from Zurich Insurance.

The firm found that one in ten Brits had substantiated this claim by successfully accessing their own properties without using the key.

Two-thirds of these managed to force entry within 15 minutes, while more than a quarter obtained entry in as little as five minutes.

"If homeowners can break in to their own properties that's a major warning sign for them to take stock of their security measures," commented Mike Quinton, managing director of director and partnerships at Zurich.

The insurer found that at least six million homeowners fear for their home security and also asked for the opinion of burglars.

Of those questioned, 87 per cent admitted that most break-ins are opportunistic, capitalising on an open door or window, or the lack of a burglar alarm.

Burglars told Zurich that simple deterrents such as external security lights, a visible security system, or window locks could help prevent thefts.

"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," said reformed criminal Bob Turney, now a probation officer.

"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."

Installing double glazing can also make your home less appealing, as glazed windows are much tougher for professional criminals to break than traditional glass.