After a Burglary: Practical Next-Steps for Homeowners in Cardiff
A burglary can leave you feeling shaken, angry, and unsure what to do next. It’s a situation no homeowner ever wants to face, but acting quickly and calmly can make all the difference. Once you’ve called the police, securing your property should be your next priority, and that’s where we come in.
At Curley Locks, we’ve helped countless Cardiff homeowners regain peace of mind after a break-in. Here’s a practical, step-by-step guide on what to do after a burglary, plus expert tips to make your home more secure than ever.
1. Make Sure You and Your Home Are Safe
Before anything else, take a breath and prioritise safety.
If you suspect someone is still inside, don’t enter the property, wait somewhere safe and call the police immediately. Once officers have cleared the scene, they’ll let you know when it’s okay to re-enter.
Next, check the property for obvious damage: broken locks, smashed glass, and forced doors. Even if the damage looks minor, your locks may have been compromised.
When the scene is secure, call a local emergency locksmith in Cardiff. Our team at Curley Locks can arrive quickly, secure entry points, and replace damaged locks the same day. The faster you act, the less chance of a repeat incident.
2. Replace and Upgrade Your Locks
Even if the intruder didn’t use keys, any lock that’s been forced should be replaced right away. After a burglary, we recommend upgrading to anti-snap or high-security cylinders that meet British Standard BS3621 or TS007 3-star ratings. These locks are resistant to the most common break-in methods, like snapping, drilling, or bumping.
Many insurers now require certified locks for cover to remain valid. Replacing them promptly isn’t just a good idea, it’s often a condition of your home insurance.
For tips on keeping your locks in good condition, read our related post: Top Tips to Avoid Needing an Emergency Locksmith in Cardiff.
3. Contact Your Insurer and Keep Records
Once the immediate security risk is handled, contact your insurance company as soon as possible. They’ll want to know:
The police incident number
A list of damaged or stolen items
Evidence of repairs or replacements
Take photos of any damage and keep receipts from locksmiths and tradespeople. These help demonstrate that you’ve secured your property and can support a faster claim.
4. Review Your Home Security
A burglary often highlights vulnerabilities you didn’t know existed, so use this moment to strengthen your defences.
Check that windows have locks, outdoor lighting works properly, and side gates or garden sheds are secure. You may also want to consider smart locks or security cameras that allow remote monitoring.
5. Prevent It from Happening Again
Once repairs are complete and your insurance claim is underway, it’s time to look forward. A few proactive steps can go a long way toward preventing future incidents:
Keep keys out of sight and away from doors or windows
Register valuables on the Immobilise database
Join local neighbourhood watch or online community groups
Schedule a professional security check every 12 months
Consider upgrading external lighting and adding smart cameras
At Curley Locks, we don’t just fix damage, we help homeowners feel confident about their safety again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I change all my locks after a burglary or just the damaged ones?
It’s best to replace all locks that could have been accessed or duplicated, not just the visibly damaged ones. Even if a key was only in a stolen handbag, that’s enough reason to change the locks. It ensures full peace of mind and compliance with most insurance policies.
How soon should I call a locksmith after a break-in in Cardiff?
Ideally, as soon as the police have given you permission to re-enter. Our 24-hour emergency locksmiths in Cardiff can secure your property immediately, preventing any further intrusion.
Will my insurance cover the cost of new locks?
Most insurers do cover locksmith services following a burglary, especially if damage occurred during the break-in. Always keep detailed invoices and evidence, they’re usually required for reimbursement.
What types of locks are best to prevent another burglary?
We recommend upgrading to British Standard BS3621 deadlocks or TS007 3-star euro-cylinders. These are tested against common burglary techniques like snapping, bumping, and drilling. Smart locks can also add convenience while improving security.
Can Curley Locks help me assess my home’s overall security?
Absolutely. We offer a free security assessment for Cardiff homeowners, identifying weak points and recommending upgrades tailored to your property. Whether it’s an older terrace or a modern flat, we’ll help make it safer.
Take Back Control of Your Home’s Security
A burglary can be traumatic, but swift action and smart upgrades can restore your peace of mind. From emergency lock changes to full security overhauls, Curley Locks is here to help you feel safe again.
