Insurers Issue Call To "Design Out Crime"

The Association of British Insurers (ABI) has called for new regulations to "design out crime" in new properties. This would benefit up to 400,000 homeowners in the first year alone and save the economy £3.2billion over the next 20 years.

The ABI estimated that simple measures such as burglar-proof doors and windows could save the economy £2.3 billion over the next 20 years and benefit 400,000 people a year.

"There is a compelling case for designing crime out of our homes," said a representative of the ABI.

"In London alone, over 300,000 new homes are planned in the next ten years. Burglary has a high cost, particularly for the poorest and most vulnerable. A modest investment can prevent it."

The measures are all recommended as basic requirements by the police. We take it for granted that Building Regulations should make our homes and offices fire-proof. There is no reason why crime-proofing can't be a requirement too.

Burglary can leave financial and emotional scars that may take years to heal. Sometimes the feeling that your home has been invaded never goes. Yet so much of this distress could be reduced if good security is built into new and refurbished homes.

However, there are ways to make your home burglar proof before the new regulations come in.

Top tips to stop burglary:

•    Make your home look occupied when you are not there – leave lights on and draw curtains.
•    Make sure all the outside doors and windows are closed and locked when you go to bed, especially any on the ground floor.
•    Keep your garage door locked.
•    Put away any gardening tools at night to deter casual thieves.
•    Lock sheds and other outbuildings at night.
•    Get an exterior light which is movement sensitive.

To get great deals on home insurance do a search online. There are many companies that allow you to compare policies. Make sure you read the small print and ensure the policy you choose is right for your individual circumstances.

If you would like to know more about home insurance why not ask AnswerBank Insurance.