What to do when you've had a break-in
Having your home broken into can be traumatic, especially if your house has been ransacked and your most important possessions stolen.
In the shock of a break-in it's easy to forget the simple things you must do. Take a look at our list of tips and share them your family so you are all prepared if you're broken into.
After a break in:
- Don't take risks - seek help and don't enter your home unless you're absolutely sure the burglar has left. Go to a neighbour's house if possible.
- Call the police immediately using your mobile or another phone; using your home phone may destroy finger print evidence
- Try not to touch anything and leave the place as you found it so the police can gather evidence
- Board up broken windows and doors so your home is safe and secure. Homeserve can send a local glazier to help.
- Change the locks or have extra locks fitted, the burglar may return if they think your home is an easy target. Homeserve can send a emergency locksmith.
- Make a list of what's missing for the police, your stolen items may be recovered eventually
- Make two copies of your stolen items list; one for yourself and one for your insurance company
- Call your insurance company to report the break-in and make a claim
- Get help cleaning up; restoration experts Chem-Dry can help restore your home and upholstery if it has been damaged and Homeserve can send a furniture repair technician to repair any broken furniture.
- Prevent another break-in; fit stronger locks and security devices, always keep your valuables out of sight and join your local neighbourhood watch scheme.