Brits Should Not Forget About Home Security During Christmas
Millions of homeowners could see themselves under financial strain when they return from a break during the Christmas period.
Such is the assertion of Halifax, as a new piece of research by the financial services firm indicates that some four million households are exposing themselves to burglaries over the upcoming festive season. According to the company, an estimated one in five Britons are set to go away over the course of Christmas and the new year. Out of these people, just over a third (37 per cent) are planning to visit family members, while some three per cent go abroad either in the search of some winter sun or to hit the ski slopes. Whatever they intend to do while away, however, travellers could find that a low-rate loan could help to meet the various transport costs that they will face.
As less than a fifth (19 per cent) claim that they are not planning on improving the security of their home before jetting off, many people could find that pressure on their spending increases should they return to discover that they have been burgled, especially if they do not have insurance. Although one in three claim to be worried about a break-in, many state that they are only to rely on their friends, neighbours and loved ones to keep an eye on their home. Meanwhile, just eight per cent state they are to improve their property’s security - a move which could be financed via a home loan.
Research from the firm also revealed that a tenth of those going abroad plan to go away for at least a fortnight, which could leave their homes at particular risk of a break-in. In turn, the cost of replacing various items may well put pressure on their ability to manage other areas of their spending such as loan repayments and household bills.
Commenting on the figures, Marty Foulds, senior claims manager for Halifax Home Insurance, said: “At Christmas it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the season and forget about home security. However, we all know there are criminals who see this time of the year as providing them with rich pickings. We are urging householders, especially those who plan to go away on holiday, to take measures to safeguard their home. This will go some way to avoiding an unpleasant return and of course a ruined Christmas.”
As a result, he advised homeowners to take “practical measures” to deter burglars and protect their homes while they are away. Mr Foulds suggested that people keep expensive gifts out of sight. In addition, he purported that fitting timer devices to lights and installing an alarm system could help to put off prospective thieves.
People wishing to make their house more secure from the threat of burglary while they are away may want to take out a homeowner loan. In applying for a loan, consumers could be able to fit door and window locks and install alarm systems. Homeowners may find that this type of loan can help them to carry out a range of property modifications. Last month, Andrew Leech, technical consultant for the National Home Improvement Council, suggested that the kitchen and bathroom are the two parts of a property which can add the most value to a home. Those looking to improve such rooms may find a homeowner loan is a helpful way of meeting such renovation costs.
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