New data from Co-op Insurance has claimed that homeowners who have been a victim of a break in are two and a half times more likely to be targeted again than someone who hasn’t.
Furthermore, for those homeowners who are unfortunately targeted a second time, Co-op’s claims data reveals this is approximately 16 months after the first break in took place.
Highlighting a need to make homeowners feel more safe and secure at home, research among a panel of homeowners conducted by the Co-op shows that two fifths (38%) feel nervous at the thought of someone unexpected approaching their door.
Over a tenth said they wouldn’t answer the door if this was the case and a further tenth said they only answer their door to friends and family.
Co-op’s claims data also highlights that home break-ins are 43% more likely to occur in November and December, in comparison to the summer months.
In order to help these homeowners feel less nervous at the thought of someone approaching their door ahead of the Christmas period, Co-op is piloting providing smart, connected doorbells to customers who have been a victim of burglary, for a period of 6 months.
As a means of connecting communities, the doorbells allow homeowners or loved ones and neighbours on their behalf, to see and speak to anyone at their front door from anywhere, using their smart phone, tablet or PC, ultimately to help people feel safer.
The device, created by US start up Ring.com works by sending instant alerts to electronic devices when people press a doorbell or trigger the in-built motion sensors. Homeowners, loved ones or neighbours can speak to whoever is at the door, using the inbuilt speakers and microphone.
Caroline Hunter, Head of Home Insurance at the Co-op said: “Our claims data shows that people who are victims of home break-ins are more likely to be targeted again. We want to connect communities and provide tools for neighbours to easily keep an eye out for each other helping homeowners feel safer.
When we asked ex-convicts what would put them off attempting to break into a house, 89% agreed that ‘smart tech’ topped the list.
For that reason, we’re now starting to provide these smart doorbells as a six month pilot to a proportion of our direct home insurance customers, who have had to claim for burglary.
In addition to helping people feel safer, the device also allows homeowners to record activity, which, in the event of a break in, could be of use to the police and insurers.”
