Nearly one in five people in the UK have experienced a burglary or attempted break-in, according to new figures, prompting fresh warnings for homeowners to stay alert and take simple steps to protect their property. With close to 100,000 burglaries recorded nationwide last year, concerns are mounting over what thieves are targeting and when they are most likely to strike.
Burglary statistics and expert insights
Matthew Harwood, a home insurance expert at Confused.com, has highlighted the items most commonly stolen and explained why the early hours of the morning remain a prime window for burglars. He also outlined a series of quick, practical checks households can make before heading out to reduce their risk.
A survey of 2,000 UK adults found that 22% have experienced a burglary or attempted break-in. Among those affected, one in four (25%) said the incident occurred between midnight and 4:59 am, a time when residents are typically asleep and homes are less well lit.
Commonly stolen items
Cash and wallets remain the most frequently stolen items, taken in 28% of cases. Jewellery follows at 24%, while bicycles account for 16% of thefts. The research from Confused.com also found that burglars deliberately target properties during quieter hours, when detection is less likely.
Low resolution rates
Despite the emotional and financial toll, many cases remain unresolved. Of the 99,658 burglaries reported to police in 2024, just 4,487 (around 5%) resulted in a charge. Meanwhile, nearly two-thirds (59,243) remain unsolved, often due to difficulties identifying suspects or gathering enough evidence.
London recorded the highest number of incidents, with the Metropolitan Police receiving 32,775 burglary reports last year. Greater Manchester Police followed, with close to 10,000 cases.
Financial impact
The financial impact of a break-in can be significant, even for those with insurance. The research found the average value of stolen items was £1,114.94, while the average insurance claim came to £835.98, leaving many victims out of pocket. Experts say this highlights the importance of prevention, as recovering losses can be difficult.
Home security gaps
Despite the risks, many households have yet to improve their home security. More than half (57%) rely primarily on outdoor lighting, while just 35% have alarm systems installed. Over a third (37%) admitted they had made no changes to their home security in the past two years. Among those who had, 22% upgraded their locks, 19% installed CCTV cameras, and 18% added outdoor lighting. Smart doorbells are also growing in popularity, with 38% of people believing they help deter intruders.
Simple checks to protect your home
To help reduce the risk of burglary, experts recommend carrying out a series of checks before leaving the house:
- Lock all entry points: Ensure doors, windows, gates, sheds, and garages are securely locked.
- Keep valuables out of sight: Avoid leaving cash, jewellery, or wallets visible near windows or in bedrooms.
- Use timer lights: A well-lit home can make it appear occupied and deter opportunists.
- Manage deliveries: Ask a neighbour or friend to collect parcels or post to avoid obvious signs the property is empty.
- Activate security systems: Make sure alarms, cameras, and smart doorbells are switched on.
- Check outbuildings: Garages and sheds are often targeted by thieves hunting for tools and bikes.
- Assess your security setup: Identifying weak spots can help improve protection with simple upgrades.
By taking these steps, homeowners can significantly reduce their risk of becoming a victim of burglary.
