Homeowners are being urged to step up security measures as data reveals more than 100,000 burglaries took place in the past year – with October emerging as the peak month for break-ins.
Figures compiled by home insurance experts at Quotezone.co.uk show the police force areas with the highest rate of residential burglaries between March 2024 and March 2025, weighted per 100,000 residents.
The data, obtained through a Freedom of Information (FOI) request to all English police forces, also reveals which month saw the highest number of home burglaries.
The findings show a spike in burglaries in early autumn, with October emerging as the most common month for offences across the country.
In particular, October proved to be the worst month for burglaries in both South and West Yorkshire, with a combined total of 1,701 offences reported across the two regions in just four weeks.
Experts warn that darker evenings in autumn and winter can make homes more vulnerable to break-ins, and are urging homeowners to take extra precautions now.
When adjusted for population, Humberside emerged as the police force area where homeowners were most likely to be targeted throughout the year, recording 458 burglary offences per 100,000 residents.
South Yorkshire ranked second with 451 reported offences per 100,000 people, followed by West Yorkshire in third place with 442 offences during the 12-month period.
The data shows Suffolk as the area with the fewest reported burglaries, recording just 87 offences per 100,000 residents.
Residents in Norfolk and Cumbria also face a lower risk of theft, with each area reporting fewer than 1,000 offences over the year – or under 100 per 100,000 people.
Helen Rolph, home insurance expert at Quotezone.co.uk said: “It’s worrying to see just how prevalent residential burglaries are in certain regions.
“The high number of offences in police area hotspots such as Humberside, South Yorkshire and West Yorkshire could be particularly alarming for residents. But even those living in areas with fewer burglaries should ensure they are taking appropriate measures to protect their home and belongings.
“The data also highlights the seasonal nature of burglaries, with the darker autumn evenings making homes more vulnerable, and giving thieves cover to operate more covertly.
“If a property appears vacant or lacks visible security, it could become a target. Installing a burglar alarm is one of the most effective deterrents, as burglars are far less likely to target homes with alarms, and some home insurance providers may even offer discounts on premiums.
“Saving for an alarm system might not be practical for many household budgets right now, however there are lots of simple and cost-effective ways to help protect our homes. It’s important to make sure the basics are covered, ensuring windows have locks, outdoor areas have motion sensor lights and high-value items are hidden from view.
“Finally, having the right insurance protection is essential. Buying a home is one of the biggest investments most people make, and unexpected events can lead to significant costs. With many households carefully budgeting due to cost of living pressures, ensuring both the home and its contents are properly covered and well maintained is more important than ever.”
Top five tips to deter burglars:
1. Remember the basics
Even putting in simple security measures can help prevent a break-in, use padlocks, extra lights and window locks to tighten up home security.
2. Watch out
The majority of break-ins happen during the day so keep an eye for suspicious behaviour and join the local neighbourhood watch scheme.
3. Out of sight
Make sure anything that is or looks expensive is kept fully out of sight from any passers-by, even garden tools as most burglars don’t carry break-in equipment with them.
4. Alarm details must be accurate
If you have a burglar alarm, be careful to update your policy correctly. Some insurance providers will ask if the alarm is also monitored – inaccurate details could void your policy.
5. Always lock up
All exterior doors and windows should be locked every time the house is left unoccupied, as most burglaries are by opportunistic thieves, taking advantage of a vulnerable situation.
As a price comparison site, Quotezone helps millions of people across the UK compare insurers and find savings on their home insurance
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