Security matters

Your home is secure enough to comply with the requirements of most insurance companies, but you might want to consider adding extra security items such as spy holes (door viewers), door chains, bolts and padlocks (for gates and sheds).

If you live in sheltered accommodation, please contact your warden before you make any alterations.

Our office can always advise you whether you can install extra security items. We may have to refuse certain requests. For example, safety grilles cannot always be installed as they sometimes prevent quick access and evacuation in the event of a fire.

You must also speak to your insurance company as fire regulations for flats require escape snibs on deadlocks whilst some insurance policies require key operated deadlocks only.

• Make sure you lock all doors, windows and garden gates even if you are only going out for a few minutes,
• Don’t leave ladders up against walls when you are not using them. Make sure they are kept out of the reach of prospective burglars!
• Keep hedges trimmed to waist height, so that they don’t provide cover for burglars
• If you are going away for a while:
• Ask a neighbour to look after your home. They can make sure free newspapers and post don’t build up on your doorstep or stick out of your letterbox for days. This is a big clue for burglars!

• Cancel newspaper and milk deliveries. Tell the newsagent and milkman personally – do not leave notes for burglars to read!

• Use timer switches to turn lights, TVs and radios on and off, so that it looks like somebody is at home

• Store valuable items out of sight. Don’t leave items in view that will tempt burglars. Contact us for more advice on security at any time.

Westminster and Camden

• West End Central and Vine Street 020 7437 1212
• Charing Cross and Cannon Row 020 7240 1212
• Harrow Road and Paddington 020 7289 5030
• Holborn 020 7404 1212

Southwark

• Camberwell 020 7703 1212