ABI issues holiday burglary reminder

The Association of British Insurers (ABI) is urging Britons to take extra care protecting unoccupied homes during the holiday season to reduce property insurance claims. While reported cases of burglary have fallen 57% since 1997, there are signs of an increase during the current economic downturn.

According to the ABI, burglary claims topped £100 million in the first three months of 2009, making it the most expensive quarter for property insurance for five years.

The Association has therefore joined forces with the Home Office to produce Insurance Advice on Home Security, which sets out basic security measures to cut property insurance such as fitting appropriate locks, property marking and security lighting.