We’re all trying our best to make our homes as safe as possible. To prepare your home for every eventuality you would ideally need a combination of a preventive security system and a proper compensation plan should the worst happen. Well-fitted security systems and home insurance are currently a necessity. But how do you make sure that they are going to work hand-in-hand with each other?
Read your insurance policy and ask questions
Each insurance company has different requirements. Take your time to read the policies carefully and choose the one that best fits your needs. If there’s anything you don’t understand or something seems unclear don’t be afraid to ask the consultant to explain it in. Consider taking out buildings and contents insurance with the same company as you can often customise the plan.
With Co-op Home Insurance your contents are protected from theft both inside and outside your home, as it includes loss of or damage to your contents in your outbuildings: sheds, garages and even greenhouses*.
Check your locks
To make sure that your doors are as secure as can possibly be, check if your current door lock conforms to BS3621. This is a lock standard from British Standards Institute (BSI), which guarantees that locks are professionally tested against burglary techniques such as drilling and picking. BS3621 locks are widely recognised by insurance companies and often called ‘Insurance Approved Locks’. So how can you tell if your locks conform with the BSI?
Simply look for the British Standard Kitemark engraved on the lock and check the Standard Number stamped below.
Invest in a good alarm system
The better protected your home, the lower the risk you present to the insurer. Investing in the smart security alarm system is a great way to monitor your house and prevent unwanted incidents. The CCTV cameras, motion detectors and smart alarms give you an early warning, so you can act quickly and prevent any harm or damage to your property and contents. Visit the ERA website to browse products.
Some insurance companies will even offer a discount on the insurance premium if you have a proper smart security system in place. Households that are less likely to make a claim in the future are rewarded with lower insurance fees so it’s worth considering an investment in a home security system.
Join a local Neighbourhood Watch
For further tools and advice on how to protect your family and your home, take a look at Neighbourhood Watch's burglary prevention checklist.
* Excludes high-risk items. Co-op Home Insurance is promoted by Co-op Insurance Services Limited (CISL) and provided by a select panel of insurers. CISL is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and appears on the Financial Services Register under number 779364