Thanks to Aviva, we can now predict when you’re most likely going to be burgled or have your car stolen.

Aviva has analysed 10 years’ worth of claims data to find the most popular months for burglary and theft. This guide explains when you are most at risk, and therefore when you need to take extra precautions at home.

 February

Surprisingly, car theft and burglary rates dramatically increase on Valentine’s Day. This is because many households are left empty for a long period of the evening. While you’re out for a romantic meal with your other half, who’s watching your home?

Claim figures show that car theft rises by 12% and burglary increases by 9% compared to the average day.

July

July 7th is the third worst day of the year for burglaries, with an average increase of 12%. Furthermore, Wimbledon and major football tournaments bring a dramatic spike in broken window claims by a whopping 20%

This is possibly due to the warm weather. People are more inclined to leave their windows ajar, which encourages thieves to take action.

October

When the clocks go back, the evenings turn darker. This presents the perfect opportunity for burglary.  Household theft rises by 5% during the week that the clocks go back.

Halloween sees malicious damage claims rise by a devastating 160%!! This is usually due to ‘pranks’ pulled by young adults such as pouring paint or paint stripper over houses and cars.

November

Burglary claims peak in November with Bonfire Night being the worst day of the year. Burglary and car theft increase by approximately 22% as families go out to enjoy the celebrations.

It is also one of the worst days of the year for fire claims with a rise of 60% due to the misuse of fireworks.

Time to beat the burglars

So, now you know the most popular months for burglary and theft, it’s time to take the necessary safety precautions.

Have you installed a Burglar Alarm and CCTV System? Arrange a FREE SITE SURVEY to discover if your home is safe from burglars!