Stanhope Insurance Issues Warning on Winter Burglaries

It’s that time of the year again, when thieves try to break in, so they can steal sellable goods, jewellery or cash, so they can enjoy a cosy Christmas. Here’s some useful advice from Stanhope Insurance;

As darker evenings draw in, experts are warning Brits need to take extra precautions to secure their homes, with around three-fifths (60%) of domestic burglaries taking place once the sun sets1.

New research from specialist insurance provider Stanhope Insurance has ranked towns and cities across England and Wales to reveal the places where high property values and high residential burglary rates collide.

London takes the top spot, scoring 94.39 on the Luxury Burglary Index. The capital records 34.7 residential burglaries per 10,000 residents, against an average property price of £555,000.

The Home Counties follow close behind, with Borehamwood in second place (90.31), Epsom third (88.52) and St Albans fourth (85.46), with Dorking and Bristol tied with respective scores of 82.91 for fifth place.

The top 10 luxury home burglary hotspots

*The overall score measures the extent to which an area combines high property prices with a high residential burglary rate.

Stanhope Insurance claims data shows theft-related losses continued to rise in 2026, with jewellery claims increasing by 32% year-on-year, reinforcing concerns that affluent households and luxury goods remain an attractive target for organised thieves.

While a high-value home does not automatically mean a higher risk of burglary, the index highlights where property values and burglary rates overlap.

The index also shows that a high price tag doesn’t have to mean high risk. Winchester, Guildford and Farnham all combine premium property values with burglary rates well below the median of 19.7 per 10,000 residents.

William Cooper, Managing Director at Stanhope Insurance said:

“Britain’s most expensive homes often hold some of the country’s most valuable possessions, from jewellery and watches to art and high-end tech. Unfortunately, these items can also make a property attractive to thieves.

“The index highlights the locations where high property values and residential burglary rates overlap most, but it is important to remember that living in an expensive home does not automatically make you a target. Equally, homeowners should not assume their possessions are safe simply because they live in an area with lower burglary rates.

“With darker evenings setting in, now is a good time to review your home security, check that valuable possessions are properly protected and make sure your insurance reflects what you own. A few simple precautions could help prevent a costly and distressing experience.”

Stanhope Insurance experts share five practical steps homeowners can take to better protect their homes.

1. Fit a security alarm, smart monitoring, or CCTV system

Research by the Home Office highlights that six out of ten intruders avoid properties fitted with an alarm system.

Beyond discouraging potential intruders, recorded footage can substantially strengthen claims made to insurers by offering clear video evidence. Ensure cameras are aimed directly at vulnerable access points, including ground-floor doors and windows.

2. Use strategic exterior and interior lighting

As the darker nights draw in, proper illumination works as a strong preventative measure.

Illuminate dim spots across the grounds where trespassers might attempt entry unnoticed. Motion-triggered floodlights offer an efficient, energy-saving choice for these zones.

Utilise automated timers for internal lights. Programming lamps to illuminate on varied schedules creates the appearance of an occupied home during absences.

3. Secure outdoor areas and grounds

Unlit or overgrown gardens offer ideal cover for intruders. Secure all perimeters and outbuildings when leaving by locking side gates and putting away tools or ladders that could assist entry to upper storeys.

4. Keep high-value possessions out of sight

Thieves target properties offering high returns with minimal effort. Ensure premium goods and cash remain unseen, as well as expensive technology and jewellery.. High-value items should be stored inside an approved, insurance-rated safe.

5. Maintain the appearance of an active household

Enlist a neighbour or relative to maintain a lived-in look while you are away. While light timers assist, they cannot disguise uncollected post or wheelie bins left out post-collection. During snowy periods, ask someone to walk across driveways or clear paths to suggest ongoing activity inside.