Despite the fact that landlords are ultimately responsible for keeping their rental property safe and secure, it is in both renters’ and landlords’ best interests to collaborate in order to prevent break-ins. Experts from Elite Homes and Property give their tips on how you and your renters can decrease the danger of being burgled in this guide.
How common are break-ins in the UK?
Property damage resulting from a break-in is the third most common kind of insurance claim Elite Homes and Property specialists receive.
According to the statistics gathered by Elite Homes & Property specialists, there has been a substantial decrease in domestic break-ins and burglaries recently.
When a person or individuals illegally attempt or force entrance into a building, this is known as a break in.
What are the best ways to prevent a break-in?
Due to the increased turnover of tenants, rented homes are typically less secure than owner-occupied buildings.
Seven steps landlords can take to prevent break-ins
1. Install good quality doors and windows
2. Install deadbolts and locks
3. Install a burglar alarm
4. Install motion sensors
5. Keep trees and shrubs well-trimmed
6. Create a ‘noisy’ front garden
7. Get to know the neighbours
How can tenants help protect your rental property from break-ins?
A healthy landlord-tenant relationship, with clear expectations and channels of communication, may assist both sides in working cooperatively to safeguard a house from unwelcome intrusions.
Seven steps tenants can take to prevent break-ins
Tenants should be advised not to hang their keys at the front entrance, especially near the mail box.
Encourage your tenants to keep their valuables hidden. Laptops and cell phones, for example, are frequently left out while not in use.
Inform your renters about SmartWater, which may be used to ‘tag’ precious things invisibly.
Ask tenants to pay particular attention to garden security.
Ask tenants to make sure that all windows and doors are locked and secured at night and when they leave the property.
Make sure tenants know they should report any security issues to you immediately so that you can make sure they are addressed
Make sure tenants always activate any security systems when they go out.
What can you do to minimise the risk of break-ins when your tenant is away?
It’s a good idea to put a clause in your lease requiring the renter to notify you if they plan to leave the property unoccupied for an extended length of time (for example, over 14 days).
Request that they tell you when the property will be vacant so that you or a neighbour can keep an eye on it, move bins out of the way, and ensure that no mail is left hanging out the letter box.
Who is responsible for repairing damage caused by a break-in?
If your property has been damaged as a result of criminal conduct, you, as the landlord, are liable for restoring the damage to the property or the goods contained in the rental agreement.
However, if the tenant violated the terms of the lease agreement or was careless, the tenant may be held liable.
Does landlord insurance cover break-ins?
Damage to your property can be claimed through your building or contents insurance if you have comprehensive landlord insurance.
What should you do if there is a break-in?
If you or your renters are the victims of a break-in, Hamilton Fraser Total Landlord Insurance recommends following a four-step procedure:
1. Call the cops and report the break-in. You’ll be given a criminal reference number, which you’ll require for insurance purposes.
2. If the property’s doors or windows have been damaged, secure them. For example, if a window has been shattered, board it up to keep the house safe.
3. If it is safe to do so, take time-stamped pictures.
4. Contact your insurance company to inform them of the incident and start the claim procedure. They will advise you on the next steps to take