Thieves damage and steal from Irish homes in claims worth €3.5k

AA Home Insurance are warning home-owners to lock up their valuables before setting off on holiday after a study by the home insurer revealed that the average theft claim last year amounted to €3, 495.

The AA Home Insurance claims analysis found that the highest average theft claim, which combines the cost of damage to the home and items stolen, was made by homeowners in Co. Wexford at €6,624.

Co. Louth came in at second place with burglars causing damage and making off with valuables in claims worth an average of €6,286, while counties Meath (€5,348) and Longford (€4,663) followed behind.

“We all know that major cities, commuter counties, and densely populated residential areas are a target for criminals,” says AA Director of Consumer Affairs, Conor Faughnan. “While there are some stark differences between counties it is clear that no matter where you live, there is always a risk your home could become a victim of theft. It’s really important that you have adequate home insurance cover in place, something many people still do not have.”

Surprisingly, Dublin came in at 9th place with householders claiming for an average of €3,467, while residents in Mayo claimed the least for theft in 2015 at just €650.

With many householders beginning to set off on their summer holidays, AA Home Insurance are urging homeowners to take the necessary precautions to help reduce the risk of becoming another statistic.

“I don’t like giving people advice that costs money but a monitored alarm system is worthwhile,” adds Conor. “It does provide a deterrent effect and while it may not make your home totally secure, it does at least tell potential thieves that you are not an easy target. It is also reassuring to know that if anything does happen at home you will know about it while on your holidays.”

Click here to read advice from AA Home Insurance on keeping your house safe.

Fig 1. AA Home Insurance average theft claims (damage and stolen goods) 01/01/2015 to 31/12/2015