Keep your home safe

Please note the information in this article is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider obtaining independent advice before making any decisions based on this article.

Theft by opportunity is generally unplanned and occurs when someone takes advantage of a door or window left open, keys left in plain sight or property such as handbags, wallets or push bikes are left in easily accessible locations.

To minimise your risk of theft:

• Lock your doors, even when home
• Put keys away in a secure spot
• Install sensor lights within your yard
• Fit security screens and locks to your windows. Louvre windows can include a bar to stop access by removing the louvres
• Keep valuables such as jewellery, cameras and laptops away and out of plain sight
• Lock the front gate at night to reduce access to your property
• Put bikes and equipment such as lawn mowers away and out of sight
• (Consider adopting a dog from the RSPCA - a dog with a loud bark may be a good deterrent. If not, it will definitely be good company.)

This article has been prepared by TIO. Information contained in this article is accurate as at 28 July 2026 and may be subject to change. It is a summary of key concepts and not meant to represent the complete picture on any given matter. It is not meant to be legal advice. The information should be read in conjunction with the relevant legislation and regulations. In some cases, information has been provided to us by third parties and while that information is believed to be accurate and reliable, its accuracy is not guaranteed in any way.

Any opinions expressed constitute our views at the time of issue and are subject to change. Neither TIO, nor its employees or directors give any warranty of accuracy or accept responsibility for any loss or liability incurred by you in respect of any error, omission or misrepresentation in this article.