Post-Break-in Guidelines
In the unfortunate event of a home burglary in Victoria, it's essential to prioritize the safety of you and your family. Here's a guide to help you navigate through the aftermath.
- Ensure Safety First
If you suspect the intruder is still inside your home, do not enter. Instead, call 000 immediately. Once the police have confirmed it's safe, proceed with the following steps.
- Report the Burglary
Report the burglary to the Victoria Police as soon as possible. You can call the Victoria Police Assistance Line (131 444) for non-urgent reports, or use Victoria Police's online reporting tool if it's not an emergency.
- Obtain a Police Crime Report
Securing a copy of the police crime report is crucial for your insurance claim. The report can be obtained online at the Victoria Police website for a fee.
- Secure Your Home
Repair any broken doors, windows, or internal damage caused by the burglary. However, avoid making repairs before your insurer approves them, unless necessary for safety. In such cases, document the damage thoroughly, keep all receipts, and take photographs.
- Document the Damage and Losses
Document the damage and stolen items by taking clear photographs or videos. Gather any receipts, proof of ownership, or valuation certificates for high-value items.
- Contact Your Insurance Provider
Contact your home insurance provider as soon as possible to notify them of the burglary and begin the claim process. Provide them with the police report, photographs, and any other evidence they request.
- Deal with the Insurance Claim
Your insurer may send a loss adjuster to assess the damage and advise on repairs or compensation. You can also hire a loss assessor to represent your interests independently, although this may involve extra cost.
- Secure Your Property
To prevent future burglaries, secure your property by keeping all access points locked, installing a monitored alarm system, removing hidden keys, adding CCTV or video doorbells, improving lighting, and removing hiding spots.
- Protect Your Valuables
Secure valuables inside the home by storing them in a safe, keeping them away from windows, marking them with your driver's license number, storing important documents in a secure safe, and avoiding leaving electronics near windows or doors. Back up digital files and install 'Find My' applications and GPS trackers.
- Check for Missing Items
Check for missing items like cash, electronics, spare keys, valuables, and identity documents. Take necessary actions such as cancelling credit or debit cards and changing passwords.
- Join Neighbourhood Watch
Joining Neighbourhood Watch can help you become an active part of your community's crime prevention efforts and receive local police updates.
- Prepare for Long Absences
When away from home for a long time, make it look like someone is still home by getting a house-sitter, avoiding advertising holiday plans, setting timers, installing a video doorbell, and letting Victoria Police know.
Remember, these steps are here to guide you through a difficult time. For more details or specific advice, visit the Victoria Police website and your insurer’s guidelines. Consider purchasing home and contents insurance to protect against financial loss in the event of a burglary. Stay vigilant and safe.
- To protect your lifestyle and belongings, it might be beneficial to invest in home-and-garden improvements such as secure doors, windows, and CCTV systems, as this can help deter potential burglars.
- Stay informed about local crime trends and community safety initiatives by reading general-news articles, joining Neighborhood Watch programs, or participating in community meetings, as this knowledge can help you maintain a safe and peaceful neighborhood.
