Coming home to a break-in is a shock. You’re feeling your heart pounding, your hands shaking, and it’s difficult to think clearly. The first 24 hours are vital to your safety, your insurance claim and your peace of mind.
This easy-to-follow guide takes you through the aftermath of a robbery, one step at a time, and when to get a locksmith.
If you notice a broken window or an open door at your home’s entrance, do not enter. An intruder may still be present. Go to a safe location (Neighbor’s home, car), dial 9911 (Police) immediately from outside. Never check what’s missing after arriving at the house. Remain in position and await the arrival of Officers. Do not go into the premises until they say it is safe for you to do so.
When the police deem the area safe, you want to clean up! Put that urge aside and resist. Avoid disturbing or disposing of broken glass or damaged objects. Police check for fingerprints and/or tool marks. Wait until the door is in place, as well. Repairing a broken door lock too soon after a break-in event could lead to the destruction of evidence that the police need. If you have a security camera or doorbell cam, save the footage right away, as some cameras will delete previous recordings rapidly.
After getting the green light from the police, begin to take pictures and video. Take pictures of the damage to the door, window and anything else that requires burglary damage repair. Next, make a list of what is missing. Record the stolen items’ make, model and serial numbers (if available). This is a crucial listing for your insurance company, and it will get your claim done in less time.
Notify your insurance company right away, and keep your police report number on hand. They will let you know what they want for the claim. Inform them about any burglary damage repair that is needed. Ask if they have a preferred emergency locksmith or repair company, because some insurers require you to use their approved tradespeople. It is great to have this call done early, as it will ease your mind.
This is the most pressing action that needs to be taken. Now your house is at risk. If you have been burglarised, you should lock up your home as soon as possible, even at night. Call a professional locksmith to handle the situation.
Indeed, it is always worth changing the locks – and here is why.
If the burglar has stolen your keys, or your keys have been in a bag that has been stolen, then they can return. Although the lock appears to be in good condition, a forced entry can cause the mechanism to malfunction, and if the lock is damaged during the break-in, it could fail at any time, leaving you vulnerable to a potential break-in. Plus, a new set of locks also provides you with some peace of mind, as you don’t have to worry about the old ones.’
Once the police indicate it is safe to secure the property, call an emergency locksmith after a burglary. Never wait till morning. The locksmith can board up the broken window or install a temporary lock, ensuring safety for the night. Get them to fit anti-snap locks as well, as many burglars make use of a burglary technique known as lock snapping to break in via uPVC doors. A standard lock is readily broken; a 3-star anti-snap cylinder is more secure. If you have to look for burglary repairs Leeds, or an emergency locksmith in Leeds, you will locate a trustworthy 24-hour service that can be ready to come out on the spot.
You’re safe for the night with temporary solutions, but it’s time for the right burglary damage repair. This includes broken doors, cracked frames, shattered glass and broken locks. It is important to contact a reputable repair service in the morning and request a written estimate before any repair work. Share the quote with your insurance provider for the quote to be accepted. Save all the receipts for repairs, as they will be needed to claim. If the damage is extensive, ask if your home is safe to live in during the repair and don’t do it fast and at any cost to get it done and dusted. These are repairs in good condition that will save you money and worry in the future.
When you are waiting for the locksmith, or after they leave, inspect the way the burglar entered your home. This will help you prevent its recurrence. See if there were dark areas by the door or window, then install motion-sensor lights as necessary. Check window locks for signs of wear and tear, and if they are worn or broken, consider replacing them. If the garage is attached to the house, lock and use this door as if it were a front door.
After a break-in, it is natural to be afraid or to feel violated. You may find that you don’t sleep for a couple of nights, and that’s a normal response after a stressful event. Discuss with friends, family and/or support services if necessary. Safety is the most important thing in any place. If you’re asking what to do immediately after a robbery, take the following steps: stay out, call the police, document the damage, call your insurance company, and secure your home by hiring a locksmith. Now you are safe, and your home is secure.
To get professional assistance, you can text REMS Locksmiths Leeds.
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