What to Do After a Burglary: A Step-by-Step Guide for Oldham Residents

Discovering that your home has been burgled is a deeply upsetting experience. In the immediate aftermath, it's hard to think clearly, but taking the right steps quickly can help with your recovery, your insurance claim, and preventing further crime. Here's what to do if your Oldham home has been broken into.

First and most importantly: if you arrive home and suspect someone may still be inside, do not enter the property. Move to a safe location and call 999 immediately. Wait for the police to arrive before going inside. Your personal safety is far more important than any possessions.

If the burglar has clearly gone, call the police on 101 to report the crime. You'll be given a crime reference number — keep this safe as you'll need it for your insurance claim. The police may send a forensic officer to examine the scene, so try not to touch anything near the point of entry.

Next, call a locksmith to secure your property. If the burglar gained entry through a door, you'll need the locks changed immediately to prevent them returning (burglars frequently revisit properties they've successfully targeted). If a door or window has been damaged, you may need emergency boarding up until permanent repairs can be made.

Contact your home insurance company as soon as possible to start your claim. They'll need the police crime reference number, details of what was stolen, and information about the damage. Take photographs of all damage before any repairs are carried out. Make a list of everything that was stolen, including serial numbers and approximate values.

In the days following the burglary, consider a comprehensive security upgrade. The entry point the burglar used represents the weakest part of your security, but there may be other vulnerabilities too. A professional security survey can identify all weak points and provide recommendations.

At Oldham Locksmiths, we understand the urgency of securing a burgled property. We offer emergency callouts 24/7 with no call-out fee, and we can have a locksmith at your door within 30 minutes. We carry insurance-approved locks and can provide all necessary documentation for your insurance claim. Call 07949 139 475.