Checkatrade shares cheap ways to deter burglars as break-ins rise

Summarised from 4 outlets · Updated 1 Nov, 18:27 · Archive

Research from Checkatrade found that 86% of UK regions saw a rise in residential burglaries following the autumn clock change.

Checkatrade has published a series of cheap methods to deter burglars following research into residential break-ins across the UK. The company analysed Freedom of Information requests to police departments for data on residential burglaries in 2025, finding that 86% of UK regions polled saw a consistent jump in break-ins in the months immediately following the autumn clock change compared to the spring season.

Emma Grant, Director of Trade at Checkatrade, said the darker evenings present opportunities for opportunistic thieves targeting unlit homes. 'As the nights draw in, dark and unlit homes can unfortunately become an easy target for opportunistic thieves,' she said. The company noted that fewer homeowners today are building security checks into their routine home maintenance.

One of the most effective deterrents identified is simulating occupancy through internal light timers. These devices can be bought cheaply online from as little as £11. Users simply plug existing lamps into the device, which then turns them on and off randomly to realistically simulate someone being home. Grant said this method 'works incredibly well' and is a quick way for homeowners to feel safe.

Securing windows and doors is another important step in burglary prevention. All external doors should feature British Standard (BS3621) approved locks, and cylinder locks on uPVC doors should be anti-snap certified. Gravel paths are also mentioned as a deterrent, though the outlets do not provide further detail on this method.

Grant emphasised that securing a home need not require major overhauls. Simple, effective steps can help to deter burglars and ensure homeowners feel more secure in their own homes, particularly as the darker months approach.

How it is being reported

• 6 cheap ways to deter burglars from your home including £11 methodThere are a number of cheap ways to deter burglars, including having a gravel path and getting indoor light timersGazette & Herald · 1 Nov, 18:12
• 6 cheap ways to deter burglars from your home including £11 methodThere are a number of cheap ways to deter burglars, including having a gravel path and getting indoor light timersSwindon Advertiser · 1 Nov, 18:12
• 6 cheap ways to deter burglars from your home including £11 methodThere are a number of cheap ways to deter burglars, including having a gravel path and getting indoor light timersWiltshire Times · 1 Nov, 18:12
• 6 cheap ways to deter burglars from your home including £11 methodThere are a number of cheap ways to deter burglars, including having a gravel path and getting indoor light timersThis Is Wiltshire · 1 Nov, 18:12

In this story: Checkatrade · Emma Grant · UK

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