Safety and Crime
Safety and Crime
It is an unfortunate fact that houses do get broken into and things stolen, and areas where there are a lot of multi-occupancy rented houses can attract Burglars more.
Burglary
Burglars target homes that they think will contain valuables, if they can see items through the window or packaging in the bins.
Burglars often look for homes with windows or doors left open or with vulnerable features that they can exploit.
Burglars are aware of the times when someone is expected to be away from their house such as during University hours or nights when you go out.
Burglars typically do not want to be seen or heard and if they feel that they would be noticed by a neighbour or passerby then they are more likely to feel exposed and may move on to find somewhere else to burgle
Keeping your house secure
Don't leave windows open when you are out, or asleep, unless you are sue they are secure enough that no-one can access them. Use window locks if you have them.
Lock your door - even when you are in
Don't leave valuable or expensive looking items clearly visible through the windows.
When you go out leave some lights on
If you go away don't advertise the fact on social media. Even on your private account. Remember your account is only secure as that of your friends. Save the holiday pictures for when you get home.
If you have been burgled:
If you live in University accommodation:
Contact University security on 0113 343 2222 and let your hall/flat warden know.
University security will then arrange for the police to come.
Until the police have attended, try not to move or touch things as they may contain evidence that can be collected.
Make a list of what you think has been taken, the police and your insurance company will need this.
The police will give you a crime reference number, you’ll need this to make a claim to your insurance company.
If you have any concerns about your safety or security discuss these with your hall/flat warden.
If you live in a private rented property:
Contact the police on the 101 number - only use 999 if it is an emergency e.g. if you think the intruder is still in or near the property.
Contact your landlord to make the property secure if there has been any damage done, even if this is out of hours there should be an emergency number. If you have a problem letting the landlord know, talk to the police officers who visit about making the property immediately secure.
Until the police have attended, try not to move or touch things as they may contain evidence that can be collected.
Make a list of what you think has been taken, your insurance company will need to know.
The police will give you a crime reference number, you’ll need to make any insurance claim.
If you don’t have insurance cover and you have lost expensive items you need to replace, or you have concerns about your future safety and security, come and have a chat with LUU Advice.
Getting burgled can leave you feeling anxious and down, if you'd like emotional support, you can contact Counselling and Wellbeing.
I have been burgled, can I move out?
It’s not nice getting burgled and it can be traumatic, so it is pretty understandable if you wanted to leave.
Sadly, housing contracts can be difficult to get out of unless you can prove the landlord committed a serious breach e.g. not carrying out necessary security repairs for a long time.
You’ll need to look at your tennacy agreement and see if you are able to move out, sometimes you can give notice or have to find a replacement housemate.
If you need any help or support get in touch with LUU Advice as we could look into security improvements or any financial help you may need.