Smart moves keep thieves out when you move in
The day you pick the keys to your new dream home should be - despite the undeniable stress of getting your belongings from A-B - something to celebrate. Planning where to put your designer chairs, artwork, ornaments and other carefully collected furnishings you've amassed over the years, is all part of the fun of re-nesting. Yet, when you take the champagne out the fridge and put your feet up after a long day of unpacking, it pays to spare a thought for your home insurance and security.
Nobody likes to think about break-ins but the sad fact of the matter is that 'For Sale' signs are a green light to local thieves, and becoming a victim of crime before you've even sent out your new address to friends and family would be a dampener to say the least.
According to advice issued by the Home Office Crime Prevention team, your chances of being burgled are higher when you move home - both before and after the move. This is because the activity prior to moving out and moving into a new place acts as a signal for potential thieves who take advantage of the fact that those moving home are busy and distracted. Unscrupulous tradespeople and fake viewers can also attempt to check out your home and your valuables.
Follow our guide to reducing your risk of crime when you're on the move.Keep your keys in safe hands.
Before you go
The Home Office Crime Prevention team recommends that you should avoid leaving huge piles of rubbish outside after your pre-move clear out, or hiring a skip, as this can also earmark your property to local criminals. So don't take any chances - make sure that you double lock and secure windows, garages and sheds whenever you are away from home.
When it comes to viewings by prospective buyers, it goes without saying that your estate agent needs to take responsibility for your security. If they conduct viewings in your absence, ask them not to divulge information about your work or daily timetable. And no matter how desperate you might be to sell up and go, never agree to a viewing by someone who has knocked on your door without an appointment.
Reputable estate agents know not to put names and addresses on clients' house keys - but it's worth checking that they follow this security procedure. Also, insist that they remove your For Sale sign as soon as your home is sold.
On the move
On the day of the big upheaval, make sure that both you and your removal company do not leave any area of the new home - or the removal van -open if it's unattended. Make sure that your removers can secure their van to stop it from being stolen when it is left alone and lock the door used for loading when it is not in view.
Settling in
Even if you're satisfied with the condition of your new home's locks and doors, you can't guarantee that copies of your keys have not fallen into the wrong hands. For peace of mind, installing new locks, fitting key-operated locks to windows and, ideally, an alarm is a good idea.
Buy to lets
The same rules apply for landlords. Insurance is essential if you rent out your home as the risk for tenants are even greater than for owner occupiers. The higher turnover and distribution of keys, as well as gaps between tenancies when the property is unoccupied all present opportunities for thieves.
Insurance matters
To ensure that you're fully protected for both theft and damages, check that your belongings will be fully covered during the move itself, either through your own home insurance or the removal company, and that your home and contents insurance will transfer to your new home. And if you've bought new and expensive goods for your new abode, such as additional computers or swanky new sofas, get them listed on your policy accordingly.
For more home security tips and advice, visit www.crimereduction.homeoffice.gov.uk
With MORE TH>N home insurance your belongings are covered against loss or damage if you use professional removal contractors. With property and contents covered, get extra piece of mind and protect your loved ones with MORE TH>N Life Insurance
MORE TH>N is the direct financial services arm of Royal & SunAlliance. It offers motor, home, pet, life and travel insurance by phone and via the internet. It also offers office, shop, business car, property, hotels, club, contractor and van insurance direct to small businesses.
MORE TH>N is a trading style of Royal & Sun Alliance Insurance plc (No.93792). Registered in England & Wales at St.Mark's Court, Chart Way, Horsham, RH12 1XL. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority.
About the Author:
Annie is an expert furniture and interior design writer who is currently interested in hobs, furniture and oak furniture