Neighbours house broken into :-(

hazyjo

Make it more secure. CCTV might act as a deterrent but it ain't stopping them.


Am sure you know that burglaries can happen anywhere at any time. I've been done twice, my mum's been done (and a few attempts) several times. My sis got done while they were all asleep. I could list several others - I know at the time it's easy to feel spooked if you live next door, in the same block, or if it happens to you personally.


Personally, no, I don't think you should ask the LL, although it might be worth suggesting he might wish to improve security while there are break ins happening nearby.

Mutton_Geoff

HarryGray wrote: »

I guess I can just buy contents insurance but I'd rather deter any kind of burglary

The two are not mutually exclusive. Not having contents insurance is a false economy since you can buy a policy for around £30/40 a year after cashback.


Plenty of tips online to help you deter burglars. CCTV is not a panacea but may be a minor deterrent. Even a dummy camera and/or sign can work.


I can't see how your personal security is anything to do with the landlord, it wouldn't be his fault if you were a Rolex dealer and were specifically targetted. However, most thefts are opportunist and it's up to you to build a layer of defence.

Sea_Shell

HarryGray wrote: »

I guess I can just buy contents insurance..

Do you not have any?? If not, why not?

What if you had a fire, or escape of water, not just burgled. Also you can extend cover for items temporarily removed (phones, jewellery etc)

Can you afford to replace all your possessions in a total loss scenario?

dan958

How did the burglar get into your neighbours flat? Did they bust the door, smash a window, get through an open window etc?

Do you have contents insurance?

AdrianC

HarryGray wrote: »

I guess I can just buy contents insurance but I'd rather deter any kind of burglary

Apart from them not being mutually exclusive, contents insurance is not just for stolen items.

Read this thread to find out why accidental damage cover is so stupidly cheap as to be a no-brainer...
https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/6056722/troublesome-landlord-has-damaged-my-property-and-refuses-to-pay-for-repairs

I just feel like I shouldn't have to bear the entire cost of CCTV etc..

You freely and voluntarily moved into a property without CCTV.
Now you've decided you want CCTV.
If your landlord and/or the building managers don't agree, then you have a simple choice. Install it yourself or move to somewhere with it.

Norman_Castle

HarryGray wrote: »

Well if someone broke in and caused any break-in damage e.g broken door/window - they would be liable for this?

This would cost far less than installing and maintaining a cctv system. As above, improve your own security. Have the two local burglaries gained access in the same way?

couriervanman

Get a cheap outside light with movement sensor

need_an_answer

couriervanman wrote: »

Get a cheap outside light with movement sensor

Before you do this OP,please make sure you have the agreement of your LL especially if the outside light requires any drilling to fix it to an appropriate place/position.

If you do this without correct permission you will either be expected to remove it and fill any holes back to the standard of your check in inventory or possibly face a deposit deduction from the LL in order to rectify.

AlexMac

Your local cops or PCSO will have (bleeddn ob'vus) crime prevention advice, but as others have said, all alarms will do is make a noise which might not even sacre off intruders and all CCTV will do is to show you the top of the head of the baddies in hoodies. Most of our neighbours have CCTV- but that doesn't stop scallies roaming the street at 3am trying car doors and side gates - as can be seen every week on the recordings...

So- ensure your door and window locks are really sound; they cost peanuts, and are an easy DIY job.

- get a "smartwater" marking kit from the local cops or Neighbourhood Watch- and display the window sticker

- avoid obvious external blind spots from the street (not easy if you have hedges, shrubs or alleyways without doors

And a few lighting and or tv/radio timeswitches

ska_lover

Are you in an upstairs flat?

Just trying to understand the layout

You could get one of those ring front door bells, that record - but it would be at your own cost - less than £100 and self installing

You really should have contents insurance.