We have even created a pdf checklist for you to download. Use this to keep track of what you have done, and what needs taking care of post home burglary.
Call the police
The first thing to do when you realise your home has been broken into is to call the police. It can be tempting to enter your home if there is a broken window or open door to see what’s going on and missing. However calling the police immediately and following their instructions on what to do next is important. As tempting as it might be to enter your home, this action may interfere with the police accurately canvassing the crime scene and collecting evidence. If you have already entered the property before realising the intrusion, step outside to make the call, and try not to disturb anything else in the home.
Address any urgent repairs
Once you have had the okay from the police it’s a good idea to look at fixing any urgent issues. If you are in a rental your agent may have provided you with an emergency or urgent repairs contact list. It’s a good idea to get your home back to the safest and securest state possible. If you need a locksmith to replace a broken lock on your home, it may be worth considering rekeying the other locks on the property incase some keys have gone missing.
Check around your house.
While waiting for the locksmith or window repairer you can start looking around your house. Have a pen and paper with you so you can start to jot down anything that is missing as you go. Be sure to check for any spare sets of keys. These are often a target and can go unnoticed. If your computer has been stolen and it contains copies of your passwords and other sensitive information be sure to update and change your banking passwords, etc.
Collect any useful information
With your list of missing items in hand try to track down any receipts, serial numbers, photographic evidence, related to the stolen items. All of this can be handy to have available for the next step.
Contact your insurer
If you have home and contents insurance you are now in a position to contact them to start the claims process. It’s a good idea to also hold onto any damaged items during the claims process also. Be sure to provide your insurer with:
- Your policy number
- List of stolen or damaged goods
- Proof of purchase/evidence of ownership
- Police Report number
- Details of the police branch and officers handling the case
What can I do to prevent home burglary?
Check out the How Safe Is My Place tool which is an initiative by Neighborhood Watch Victoria and RACV. The tool takes about 10 minutes to complete and will provide you with guidance towards improving your homes security. If you need a hand with any of the security recommendations please contact your closest Wynns team.
