Security tips

This content applies to England only.

Housing laws vary between England and Scotland. This page applies to England only. Get advice relating to Scotland

A few simple actions can help to keep your home secure.

Fit locks and other security devices

Make sure that all the doors and windows to your property have adequate locks - and make sure you always lock up before you go out!

Doors should be fitted with a five lever mortice lock and windows should fasten with a key, which must then be kept out of sight. However, make sure everyone in your home knows where the keys are kept in case of an emergency such as a fire. Doors and door and window frames should be strong and in good condition, so they can't be broken easily. You could also consider fitting:

• a chain on the door
• a spyhole
• an alarm.

If you live in rented accommodation and don't feel the property is sufficiently secure, ask your landlord to fit new or additional locks.

Keep valuable items out of sight

Try not to leave valuable items in places where they can easily be seen from outside. You could also consider marking valuable items with an ultra-violet pen, so they can be identified if they are stolen. Take photographs of items that can't be marked such as jewellery or antiques.

Use entry phone systems

If you live in a building with an entry phone system, it's important that you use it properly to keep the property secure. Don't let in people you don't know, and don't leave the door open.

Join Neighbourhood Watch

Neighbourhood watch groups consist of local residents working together to improve security in the community and help prevent crime. They have links with the local police and other crime prevention agencies, and can warn residents of crime trends in their area. Members may also keep an eye on each other's homes during holidays or share useful security devices such as timer switches. Find out more on Neighbourhood Watch Association website.

Take precautions when you go away

If you're going away, you can reduce the risk of a break in by:

• Leave a light on if you're going to be out during the evening, but not so as to draw unnecessary attention to your home.
• You could also consider getting a timer switch to control the lights automatically. You can buy these from most DIY stores.
• Ask a friend or neighbour to keep an eye on your home. This could include opening and shutting curtains, switching lights on and off and making sure post and papers are pushed through your letterbox properly.
• Remember to cancel paper and milk deliveries before you go away.

Beware bogus callers

Bogus callers pretend to be officials from the council, engineers from gas, electricity or water companies, police officers or salespeople in order to gain access to people's homes and steal money or property. They usually carry fake identity cards and can seem very convincing.

How do I protect myself from bogus callers?

If someone calls round at your home, it's best to take precautions:

• put the chain on the door before answering it - if you rent your home and don't have a chain, ask your landlord to fit one for you
• ask to see identification
• check their identification isn't fake - ask which company they're from, then phone the company to check the caller is genuine. Look the company up in the phone book rather than using a number they give you
• ask a neighbour or friend to come round while the caller is there.

If you are disabled, have a chronic illness or are of retirement age, you can join the priority services register. As part of this service, you can give your gas and electricity suppliers a password to be used by anyone they send round to your home.

How can I help my neighbours?

Bogus callers tend to prey on elderly and vulnerable people who live alone. If you are concerned that any of your neighbours may become victims of bogus callers, let them know that they can ask you for help if they're not sure about the identity of callers.

How do I report bogus callers?

If bogus callers visit you or any of your neighbours, you should call the police straight away. You can find the number of your local station in the phone book or at the police website. You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Think about what's outside

• Never leave a key hidden outside your home (eg. under a doormat)
• Always lock sheds and garages
• Always put ladders or tools away - they could be used by an intruder.
• Don't leave packaging for new appliances and goods outside your home. Always crush it and put it in the bin.