Caught in the act: Almost one third of homeowners have been victims of burglaries
16 December 2024
- Research commissioned by Co-op Insurance reveals that almost one in three (29%) homeowners have been the victims of theft from their home.
- The member-owned business also found that nearly one in eight (11%) homeowners in the UK say they feel that their home is less secure when dark evenings set in during the winter months.
- Meanwhile, vehicle keys and personal documents are the items Brits would most want to protect from theft.
- So far in 2024, the provider has seen claims as high as almost £85,000 for theft from homes
- Co-op Insurance is encouraging homeowners to take precautions to help keep their home secure this winter.
Research commissioned by Co-op Insurance reveals that almost one in three (29%) homeowners admit that they’ve been the victims of theft from their home, whilst nearly one in eight (11%) say that they feel that their home is less secure when dark evenings set in during winter months.
Outside of London, those in the North-West of England were most likely to have experienced thefts from their home with almost two-fifths (37%) stating that they had been victims of this.
Meanwhile, over one in six (18%) have had a vehicle stolen from their home. Indeed, vehicle keys were among the possessions that homeowners would most want to protect from theft, along with personal documents, items of sentimental value and purses or wallets.
Top 10 items homeowners would most want to protect from theft
| Rank | Item |
|---|---|
| 1. | Personal Documents |
| 2. | Vehicles/Vehicle Keys |
| 3. | Items of sentimental value |
| 4. | Purse/wallet/money |
| 5. | Smartphones |
| 6. | Jewellery |
| 7. | TV |
| 8. | Games consoles |
| 9. | Bikes/sports equipment |
| 10. | Clothing |
However, over half of homeowners (54%) say that they’ve installed a security camera either inside or outside their home, with nine in ten (92%) admitting that having one in place makes them feel more secure. Conversely, of those who haven’t installed a security camera, more than three in five (62%) admit that it would make them feel more secure if they had one in place.
The member-owned organisation also revealed that, so far in 2024, it has seen claims as high as almost £85,000 for theft from homes, meaning that those without the right cover or who failed to renew their cover, could face a significant financial impact.*
Alongside the financial impact, theft from homes can be extremely emotionally distressing. As such, the member-owned business is encouraging people to take precautions to keep their home secure ahead of the winter period.
Graham Ward Lush, Head of Home at Co-op Insurance said: "During the winter months, many people see their home as a sanctuary that allows them to escape the dark and cold weather.
"However, our research suggests that a significant number of Brits don’t feel as secure in their homes when the dark evenings set in, but that most people would feel less anxious with extra security features.
"Whether it’s leaving lights on a timer, installing a security camera or simply making sure your windows and doors are locked, we’re encouraging homeowners to take extra steps to ensure that their possessions are kept safe, and homes remain secure this winter."
Co-op Insurance has also shared the following tips to protect your home during the winter months:
- Leave a light on when out or invest in a light timer
- Install exterior security lights at the front and back of your property
- Invest in a CCTV system, if possible
- Don’t post locations on social media sites
- Make sure doors and windows are locked
- Set burglar alarms
- Ensure outbuildings/sheds are secured
- Hide valuables from display
- Never put car keys within reach of a letterbox
- Don’t leave ladders outside your home
Co-op Insurance is committed to supporting homeowners and that's why it has partnered with SimpliSafe, an award-winning home security provider. In light of the recent survey findings, Co-op Insurance is offering a free home security system worth over £300 when you buy Co-op Home Insurance direct and online before 16th January.**
This security package includes a base station, entry sensor, keypad, indoor camera and a motion sensor. Plus, you can get one-month free 24/7 Pro Premium Monitoring.
For further information on Co-op Insurance, visit: https://www.coop.co.uk/insurance
-Ends-
Notes to the editor Research based on 1,086 UK Homeowners (aged 18+) * While stocks last. ** Based on claims data from Markerstudy Distribution as of 5.12.24
For more information please contact: pressoffice@coop.co.uk
About Co-op: Co-op is one of the world’s largest consumer co-operatives with interests across food, funerals, insurance and legal services. Owned by millions of UK consumers, the Co-op operates over 2,400 food stores, over 800 funeral homes and provides products to over 5,000 other stores, including those run by independent co-operative societies and through its wholesale business, Nisa Retail Limited.
Employing almost 60,000 people, the Co-op has an annual turnover of over £11billion and is a recognised leader for its social goals and community-led programmes. The Co-op exists to meet members’ needs and stand up for the things they believe in.