A Secure Home

A third of all Australians have been burgled at least once in their current home. Think theft couldn't happen to you? Check our top five tips on home security to make sure it doesn't - and remember to protect all your possessions with home and contents insurance.

Some simple home truths

Over 10% of Australian homes have no security device whatsoever - no alarms, no security bars, and no window locks. Yet burglary and unlawful entry are the most commonly reported crimes in Australia.

What can I do?

Be alert and be aware. Keep your high-tech gadgets and expensive jewellery out of sight, and keep your external doors locked. That's not always easy when you want to get the southerly blowing through your bi-folds, but make sure you have screens and window locks on your back doors too.

If your keys are stolen, change the locks - your home insurance may cover the cost, and it's worth it for peace of mind. If you are away for any length of time, consider getting a house sitter, or take extra security measures before you go.

Take precautionary measures

Some simple steps now can save a lot of heartache later. For example, if you keep all your digital photos, video and music on your computer now, back it up regularly and keep that back up somewhere else, like your office.

A thief could not only make off with your laptop but also all your memories, and no amount of insurance can replace that. Back-up storage servers are also very easy for thieves to pocket.

Keep receipts, valuations and proof of ownership of expensive items - take photographs and document everything. And check that your contents insurance covers all your specified items - including your precious CD collection or heirloom jewellery.

Upgrade your security

It's worth investing in a security alarm system, and it could reduce your home insurance premium. But make sure it complies with your insurer's requirements. If it is part of your policy, but it wasn't working when you were burgled, your claim could be rejected.

Be honest

It's important to tell the truth about your home security when you take our your home insurance policy. If you tell them you have locks on the windows, and then you make a claim for a theft that occurred through those windows, then your insurer will check it out. So if you have locks on some windows, but not others, be honest! And maybe it's time to get that fixed.