Protecting Your Home: A 2026 Guide to Burglary Prevention and Security

March 2026

Whilst your home insurance covers the financial loss you suffer because of a break-in, nothing can protect you from the emotional trauma and shock suffered when a stranger ransacks your home and rummages through your belongings. However, there is a lot you can do to help prevent it from happening in the first place.

Fit five-lever mortice deadlocks (or their equivalent) to all external doors and you should lock these doors even if you are out for just a short time.

Many break-ins occur through windows. Fit security locks to all accessible windows, i.e. those on the ground floor or near any drainpipes of flat roofs.

When you go out for the evening, it's a good idea to draw the curtains and leave a light on in the living room or bedroom. Leaving the hall light on is not a good deterrent.

Keep your garage/garden shed locked. Do not leave garden implements, especially ladders, lying around. They could help a thief gain access to your home.

When you go on holiday, cancel all deliveries, i.e. milk, newspapers etc. Inform your local Garda station that you will be away and DO NOT post "check-ins" or holiday photos until you return, as burglars often monitor social feeds.

If you have suffered a break-in, please call us as soon as possible at 01 613 3990, as it is often necessary to carry out emergency repairs to doors and windows to secure your home. To this effect our nationwide panel of repairers, Glasscare can be dispatched to your home as soon as possible following your call. It may also be necessary for us arrange an inspection. To assist you we WILL need the following information: 

• How entry was gained to your property; 
• The extent of any damage caused to the buildings; 
• Details of any items taken; 
• The Garda/Police station you reported the break-in to; 
• The Garda/Police report reference number; 

When dealing with your claim you will be asked to provide documents (receipts, manuals, valuations etc.) for any stolen items. It would be helpful to start gathering this information as soon as possible.

A: Most insurers require a five-lever mortice deadlock for timber doors or a multi-point locking system for uPVC doors. In 2026, many "Smart Locks" are also approved, provided they meet specific security ratings (like the TS007 3-star standard).

A: Yes, many insurers offer a discount if you have a monitored alarm system installed by an EN50131 certified installer. Ensure your alarm is switched on whenever the house is vacant to remain compliant with your policy terms.

A: While leaving a light on helps, smart lighting that mimics real human activity (turning on/off in different rooms) is much more effective than a static hall light, which can signal that a house is empty.

A: You can use bank statements, high-quality photographs of the items in your home, original packaging, or instruction manuals as secondary proof of ownership.

Information correct as at 27/03/2026