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After a burglary: securing your home
Updated October 2026
Straight away
- If the burglar may still be there, leave and call 999.
- Otherwise, report it to the police on 101 or online and get a crime reference number.
- Take photos of the damage before anything is repaired.
- Call your home insurer; many have an emergency line.
Making it secure
A locksmith can repair or replace forced locks, fit new cylinders and, if needed, board up a broken door or window until a permanent repair is made. Tell them which door or window was used to get in.
Upgrades that help
- Anti-snap cylinders on uPVC and composite doors
- British Standard (BS 3621) mortice locks on wooden doors
- Key-operated window locks on ground-floor windows
- Good lighting and a visible alarm or video doorbell
Need help?
Use the form to send a free enquiry. We'll pass it to an independent local locksmith provider.