Why you should invest in the latest security measures
Recent studies have shown that homes with inadequate or limited security measures in place are five times more likely to be burgled than those utilising simple security techniques and technologies, with properties most commonly broken into during the day when the majority of inhabitants are likely to be at work.
In this blog, we review some of the measures and technologies available to protect your high net worth home and reduce your household insurance premium.
When is your home most at risk?
Perhaps understandably, for most homeowners, the riskiest time of the year is when the property is unoccupied, during summer holidays, ski season and over the Christmas period. However, there are a number of simple measures that you can put in place to reduce the risk and protect your property.
While your property is unoccupied, it may be wise to consider cancelling deliveries of items such as milk and newspapers that would otherwise pile up on the doorstep. When left outside for several days, items such as these are likely to draw the attention of would-be burglars. Royal Mail also have a ‘keepsake service’ that will hold your mail until you return home to avoid parcels and envelopes piling up on the doorstep.
Simple ways to keep your home safe
There are a number of other steps that you can take to protect your home while it is unoccupied. One easy way to avoid your home looking vacant is to ask a neighbour to park on your driveway. It may also be worth considering whether there is an active Neighbourhood Watch in your area which you can join. These simple measures can provide an added sense of security whilst potentially reducing your household insurance costs.
Often, thieves capitalise on chances made available to them. For example, they will choose which property to target based upon the visibility and ease of access to valuable items. Simply ensuring that keys and valuables are kept out of sight reduces the likelihood of your home being targeted. Many home insurance policies offering buildings and contents cover require you to have a safe installed, whilst others may reduce the cost of your home insurance if a safe is in place.
In today’s world where we are never without our mobile phone, every event is documented on social media including holidays. But posting about your ski or beach trip whilst you are away could highlight your home as an easy target to potential burglars. Save your holiday snaps for your return to avoid your unoccupied property being publicised.
Home improvements to protect your property
In order to qualify for buildings and contents insurance, it is often a requirement that you have sufficient locks on all doors and windows. It may also be wise to consider installing reinforced laminated glass, especially in properties with large patio doors that may otherwise allow easy access to the property.
Burglars will often assume that a house with closed curtains and blinds during the day is likely to be empty. A number of smart home systems can be integrated with automated curtains and blinds to imitate your daily routine.
Introduce the latest home security systems
Smart homes are a fantastic example of how technology can not only make our lives easier but also safer too. As a simple yet effective measure, it is advisable to install motion sensor external lighting and alarm systems around your property.
Security cameras are also highly recommended, and a number of systems are now available that allow you to interact with anyone approaching the property. Using simple motion detection technology allows you to keep track of movements around your home to differentiate intruders from the local wildlife. Video doorbells are a great example of this, giving you the ability to speak directly to visitors, couriers or those with less than honest intentions as though you are in the property.
Insurance services to protect what is important to you
No matter what precautions you put in place, it is still possible that a burglar may find a way to get access to your property. That is why it is important to ensure that you have the correct level of cover in place to protect your home. When you renew your policies, it is advisable that you review your policy limits and requirements in detail to avoid invalidating your contents insurance cover. To find out more about the dangers of underinsurance, please see our recent blog here.
Another aspect that should be considered is car insurance. If you are intending to leave your vehicle at the airport or an airport parking provider for a long period of time, you may also need to inform your insurance provider. As an experienced broker with a speciality in sourcing bespoke policies for high net worth vehicles, assets and properties, we will work with you to ensure you are fully covered, regardless of the circumstances.
If you own a high net worth property, vehicle or any other kind of asset, and would like some impartial advice on the best way to protect your hard-earned property, contact us today on 01730 265500 or email hello@robison.co.uk
Robison is an experienced high net worth insurance broker based in Petersfield, providing advice and services to businesses throughout Hampshire and the surrounding areas. In addition, we work closely with individuals to protect their families and properties for years to come. From health and classic cars, to sculpture and fine art, our team can offer tailored advice and services no matter your requirements.
