Burglary

Below you’ll find information about how you can reduce your risk of being burgled.

Fit strong doors and use entry systems properly

If you live in a building containing several flats, make sure your front door is strong. It should be as strongly built as the main outside door of the block. If it isn’t, get another one, or ask the landlord or council for one. Fit hinge bolts which stop someone pulling the door from its hinges.
If your block does not have a telephone entry system, talk to the landlord or council about putting one in. This may be easier if you get together with other tenants to form a tenants’ association.
If you do have a telephone entry system, don’t let strangers in or hold the door open for someone who is arriving as you are leaving.
Fit a spy hole and chain to your door, and never let anyone in until you have thoroughly checked their ID. Ask them to call back another time if you are not sure about them.

Fit locks to all windows that a burglar could use, such as sash windows, and remember to keep them locked.
Fit British Standard deadlocks to external doors and always use them.
Always shut and lock doors and windows, even if you are out for a short time.
Restrict access to your rear garden if possible.

If leaving your house empty, leave a light on and consider fitting timer switches on lights - remember it may start getting dark before you return.
Think about fitting a burglar alarm and if you have one, remember to switch it on when you go out or go to bed. Window shock alarms are also cheap and very effective.
Good security lighting and crunchy paths can put burglars off. Prickly plants also act as a deterrent.

Remove house and car keys from locked windows/doors and keep them out of sight.
Move all valuables out of sight of windows.
Keep your garage and garden shed locked, and make sure your tools are secure and out of sight.

Page updated: 15 Jun 2010

Email:	safercommunities@hackney.gov.uk
Tel:	020 8356 3170 020 8356 3310 (Anti-Social Behaviour Team)
Fax:	020 8356 2241