With the clocks gone back and darker evenings drawing in across Manchester, Burnley, Accrington and Rawtenstall, now is a good time to think about home security. Whether you’re going on holiday or just heading out for the day, there are simple steps you can take to help protect your home from burglars.
At Gordon Anthony Mortgages, we help homeowners across the North West with their mortgages and insurance. For most people, their home is their biggest financial commitment, so protecting it is about more than the mortgage itself. A few sensible home security measures, along with the right insurance cover, can give you greater peace of mind this autumn and winter.
According to the Office for National Statistics, police recorded 245,284 burglaries across England and Wales in the year ending March 2025, including both residential and non-residential properties. Although this represented an 8% decrease on the previous year, burglary remains a concern for homeowners.
With the nights getting longer, there are more opportunities for thieves to attempt a break-in under cover of darkness. While you cannot completely eliminate the risk, there are practical precautions you can take to help deter opportunistic burglars.
Smart technology to improve home security
Smart video doorbells have become increasingly popular, allowing you to keep an eye on activity outside your home when you aren’t in. Many include motion detection sensors that send notifications to your phone when movement is detected. As well as allowing you to speak to a delivery driver while you’re away, they can help you spot suspicious activity.
Smart lightbulbs can also be useful, particularly if you’re going away. They can be controlled remotely from your phone and scheduled to switch on and off at different times, helping to create the impression that someone is at home, even when the property is empty. With darker evenings arriving earlier, this can be a simple way to make your home look lived in.
While the latest technology can be beneficial, don’t overlook traditional home security measures. Check that your burglar alarm is working properly and get into the habit of setting it every time you leave the house, even if you’re only popping out for a short while.
Avoid leaving an empty driveway
If you’re going away for an extended period, consider asking a friend or neighbour to park their car in your driveway. They could also move your bins on collection days, so it is less obvious that the property is empty.
Whether you live on a busy street in Manchester or a quieter road in Rossendale, small signs that a home is occupied can make a difference. Having a trusted neighbour keep an eye on things while you’re away is another simple but effective precaution.
Don’t attract unwanted attention
Take a look at your home from the outside and check whether any valuable items are visible through the windows. Laptops, televisions, games consoles and other expensive gadgets could attract the attention of a potential thief, so consider moving them out of sight.
It’s also worth locking away ladders, tools and anything else that could be used to gain access to your property.
Before going away, check that all windows and doors are securely locked and avoid leaving spare keys in obvious hiding places, such as under a doormat or plant pot.
Check your home insurance this autumn
Even with good home security measures in place, it’s impossible to remove every risk. That’s why having the right home insurance is so important.
Buildings insurance will typically cover insured damage to the structure of your home, such as broken glass or damaged locks following a burglary. Contents insurance usually covers possessions that have been stolen, subject to the policy terms, limits and exclusions.
However, not all home insurance policies provide the same level of protection. You may need additional cover for high-value items, bicycles or expensive technology, so it’s important to check the terms and conditions.
If you’ve bought new gadgets, jewellery or other valuables since you last reviewed your policy, it’s worth checking whether your current cover still reflects what you own.
Jack Cunningham, at Gordon Anthony Mortgages, said:
“Most people arrange home insurance when they buy a property and then don’t look at it again. But life moves on. You might have added new gadgets, a bike or some jewellery, and your cover may not have kept pace. Autumn is a sensible time to check your policy, so you know where you stand if the worst happens.”
Whether you’re reviewing your existing policy or arranging home insurance in Manchester and the surrounding areas, taking time to understand your cover can help you avoid unexpected gaps in protection.
Frequently asked questions about home security and insurance
Does home insurance cover burglary?
Contents insurance usually covers possessions that are stolen in a burglary, subject to the policy terms, limits and exclusions. Buildings insurance will typically cover insured damage to the structure of your home, such as broken glass and damaged locks.
Do I need extra cover for valuable items?
You may do. High-value items, jewellery, bicycles and expensive technology can require additional cover, so it’s important to check the terms, conditions and individual item limits of your home insurance policy.
How can I make my home look occupied while I’m away?
Smart lightbulbs on a timer, a car on the driveway and a neighbour moving your bins can all help. Make sure your alarm is set and all windows and doors are locked before you leave.
How often should I review my home insurance?
It’s sensible to review your home insurance at least once a year, particularly before your policy renews. You should also check your cover whenever your circumstances change, such as when you buy expensive items, renovate your home or make significant changes to your belongings.
Home insurance advice from Gordon Anthony Mortgages
Whether you’re looking for mortgage advisors in Manchester or need advice on your home insurance, Gordon Anthony Mortgages is here to help.
We provide mortgage and insurance advice to homeowners across Manchester, Burnley, Accrington, Rawtenstall and the wider North West. If it’s time to review your buildings and contents insurance, get in touch to discuss your options.
Important information
Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. It is important to take professional advice before making any decision relating to your personal finances. Information within this document is based on our current understanding and can be subject to change without notice. Some rules may vary in different parts of the UK. We cannot assume legal liability for any errors or omissions it might contain.
As with all insurance policies, conditions and exclusions will apply.