Burglary Statistics UK

Burglary Crime Statistics in the UK - 2026

Burglary remains a significant concern for homeowners and renters across the UK, but the good news is that the number of offenses has been steadily declining, dropping 3% compared to last year and 68% since 2004.

We reviewed the latest dataset from the Office for National Statistics, nature of crime: burglary, to bring you all of the latest data on burglaries in the UK and how you can apply this to keep your home secure. From when and how burglaries occur, the most commonly stolen items and the role of home security in deterring criminals. Plus, we’ll offer expert tips on how to protect your home.

 

Burglary Statistics in the UK

In 2024, there were 266,489 police recorded burglary offenses in England and Wales (Statista), this is a 3% decrease in recorded burglaries compared to 2023.

Whilst this might seem like a scary number, the number of offensives has been dropping rapidly for the last decade, with burglaries dropping 68% since 2004! This could be thanks to the technical advancements with home security and that homeowners and renters across the UK are more aware of how to keep their homes safe and are more security conscious.

 

 

When & How Burglaries Happen

• 71% of burglaries happen during the week (mon-fri)
• 32% of burglaries take place in the evening
• 19% of burglaries take place between 6pm – 10pm
• 56% of burglaries happen in the dark
• 69% of the time, someone was at home when the burglary occurred
• Almost half of all burglaries are committed on the spur of the moment
• 62% of burglars get in through the front of the property
• 73% of burglars get through a door
  • 33% burglars forced the lock
  • 10% entered through an unlocked door
  • 7% of burglars had a key

 

The Type of Damage Caused

• 45% damaged an outside door
• 28% damaged a lock
• 25% broke a window

 

Commonly Stolen Items

1. Money (wallet / purse / credit cards)- 34%
2. Jewellery and watches – 22%
3. Computer and electronics – 16%
4. Vehicles – 12%
5. Clothing – 11%

60% of burglaries are successful (where something is stolen)

 

Why Burglary Rates are Decreasing

The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic had a significant impact on domestic burglary rates because it caused more people to stay at home and limit their social contact. This trend has continued even as many people’s lives in the UK have gone back to normal.

In 2019, the rate was 6.28 burglaries per 1,000 residents, and in 2022, it had dropped to 4.18, meaning burglary is becoming less prominent but is still a major threat.

With the rise of cybercrime, criminals are becoming much more effective at stealing money and personal information online. This carries a much lower risk of being caught and is more difficult for police to track down, so while burglary in its traditional form has decreased, you also need to consider your cyber security.

These levels may also be decreasing because many burglaries go unreported because homeowners don’t want to deal with the stress of a police report.

 

The Impact of Home Security

• 32% of British households have a burglar alarm
• 40% of British households have a security camera
• 63% of burglaries happen to people without a basic security system
• 60% of burglars wouldn’t burgle a property if they had an alarm
• 34% of burglars said they would find an easier target if there was a dog at home

 

How to Protect Your Home

Protecting your home takes a combination of smart security habits and potentially a little bit of investment. One of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of burglary is to ensure that your locks are British Standard or Anti-Snap as these offer more resistance to forced entry, lock snapping and drilling.

Investing in a security system such as a burglar alarm or outdoor security camera can be a big deterrent for anyone targeting your home, but also helps to alarm you to any potential break-in, making it dually effective.

Some good security habits to adopt would be:

• Lock windows and doors
• Keep valuables out of sight from windows and doors
• Eliminate hiding places by trimming trees, bushes and plants
• Be mindful of social media

For even more expert advice on enhancing your home security, be sure to check out our Home Security Guide for practical tips and recommendations.

 

Burglary in the UK: Final Thoughts

Burglary remains a serious concern, especially for those who live in the burglary hot spots throughout the UK, but the positive trends we have seen over the past 2 decades is encouraging.

Being proactive with home security is essential—not only to protect individual homes but also to contribute to the continued decline in burglary rates across the UK. Simple actions, such as changing your locks, installing an alarm or even just being mindful to keep doors and windows locked can make a big difference.