Claims for theft will double in 2009 according to the home insurance provider Hiscox. So how can you protect your home?
The Bermuda based insurer has predicted that theft claims will leap by 100 per cent as the Home Secretary warned that burglaries are on the rise. At the end of 2008, the Home Office reported a four per cent increase in domestic burglaries.
Thefts are on the rise because individuals have been so badly hit by the recession. With the recent boom presenting such prosperous times, people have had more to lose when the credit crunch hit home and many are targeting valuables in other people's properties including jewellery, fine art and digital equipment.
Consequently, property owners have been urged to check their home insurance policies are up to date with adequate contents insurance for their most recent purchases included. According to Hiscox, the average value of household contents has increased by 20 per cent in the last five years.
Homeowners should also take steps to prevent burglaries from taking place. It is recommended that they fit NACOSS burglar alarms and invest in five-lever mortise locks for all external doors. Consider investing in double glazing and ensure that all windows and doors have suitable key operated locks. Remember to keep these keys out of sight once you have locked up.
Other security measures that could be worthwhile include fitting security lighting outside a property, installing security cameras and time-switch lights. If you're going to leave the home unoccupied for a lengthy period ask a friend or family member you trust to collect your post for you and open and close curtains to make it seem as though someone is at home.
If you feel your home insurance protection is not adequate then you can compare home insurance online with a comparison website and find a more thorough policy - most insurers will also offer discounts for suitable security improvements.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alex_Gregory
The Bermuda based insurer has predicted that theft claims will leap by 100 per cent as the Home Secretary warned that burglaries are on the rise. At the end of 2008, the Home Office reported a four per cent increase in domestic burglaries.
Thefts are on the rise because individuals have been so badly hit by the recession. With the recent boom presenting such prosperous times, people have had more to lose when the credit crunch hit home and many are targeting valuables in other people's properties including jewellery, fine art and digital equipment.
Consequently, property owners have been urged to check their home insurance policies are up to date with adequate contents insurance for their most recent purchases included. According to Hiscox, the average value of household contents has increased by 20 per cent in the last five years.
Homeowners should also take steps to prevent burglaries from taking place. It is recommended that they fit NACOSS burglar alarms and invest in five-lever mortise locks for all external doors. Consider investing in double glazing and ensure that all windows and doors have suitable key operated locks. Remember to keep these keys out of sight once you have locked up.
Other security measures that could be worthwhile include fitting security lighting outside a property, installing security cameras and time-switch lights. If you're going to leave the home unoccupied for a lengthy period ask a friend or family member you trust to collect your post for you and open and close curtains to make it seem as though someone is at home.
If you feel your home insurance protection is not adequate then you can compare home insurance online with a comparison website and find a more thorough policy - most insurers will also offer discounts for suitable security improvements.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alex_Gregory
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