By David Field


Homeowners are being advised to take extra precautions this Christmas and new year to make sure that their properties are not the subject of break-ins.

A number of recent reports have indicated that homes are far more likely to be broken into around Christmas as criminals can guarantee that new, expensive presents will be around.

Furthermore, New Year's Eve is a prime time for thieves to enter your property, as they are well aware that many people head out on the town on December 31st.

Figures from Norwich Union indicate that domestic crime over the Christmas period costs households an average of £350 more than at other times of the year because of the many pricey gifts on hand.

In addition, the company claims that properties are 25 per cent more likely to be broken into on New Year's Eve than on any other night of the year.

Jason Harris, senior claims manager at Norwich Union, commented: "Everyone wants to put their presents under the tree for Christmas but before the big day ensure they're tucked away somewhere safe and not in full view to every passer-by.

"The attic or loft is a good hiding place for presents – your average burglar doesn't have time to climb into your attic and it's also safe from excited children desperate to get a sneak preview of what they can expect on Christmas morning."

Norwich Union states that homeowners should avoid leaving packaging from presents outside in view of the street and insists that keeping lights on when heading out and locking all doors and windows should be enough to prevent most burglars, who have no wish to spend a long time attempting to gain access to a property.

Homes are also at risk over Christmas due to the number of families that spend nights away visiting loved ones.

According to Direct Line, 11 million Britons will leave their home unoccupied for one night over the festive period, with the average Christmas break lasting four days, plenty of time for a burglar to rid you of your possessions.

Some 39 per cent of Londoners are planning on leaving the capital for a few days over Christmas.

Even if your home isn't burgled this Christmas, the threat of storm damage is a real possibility and should not be overlooked, claims Abbey.

With forecasters suggesting that further bad weather is on the way, the company is warning the 36 per cent of homeowners whose properties are uninsured to act quickly to rectify the situation.

Prasad Shastri, head of insurance marketing at Abbey, said: "Worryingly many people do not protect their homes properly despite the severe costs that storm damage can cause."

There are around 620,000 storm-related claims each year, with each settlement coming to an average of £522.