‘Secure home’ scheme could bring down insurance costs

A NEW scheme is being rolled out that will allow some Scottish homeowners to keep their properties safe whilst potentially reducing their insurance premiums.

Residents in West Lothian are being encouraged to sign up to the ‘Secure Home’ scheme that has been recently launched by Lothian and Borders Police.

It involves police officers visiting homeowners and assessing how safe their properties are, as well as making suggestions to improve security.

Homes that meet the criteria are awarded ‘Secure Home’ status.  As well as increased peace of mind, homeowners may receive a reduction on their insurance.

Officers may suggest preventative measures in order to secure the property such as installing an alarm that is properly monitored; ensuring external doors and windows are robust with appropriate locks and installing a safe that is bolted or fixed to the fabric of your home.

PC Bob Cowan from Lothian and Borders Police Community Safety Department said; “This scheme is open to everyone in West Lothian, and we really hope that people will take up this opportunity.

“The scheme is a recognised throughout the United Kingdom as a great way to ensure homes are as safe as possible, reducing the possibility of opportunist housebreakers.

“The scheme is a new initiative being trialed within West Lothian on behalf of the Association of Chief Police Officers (Scotland) and creates a new benchmark for homeowners to ensure homes are as safe as possible, reducing the possibility of opportunist housebreakers.

“I would encourage anyone who is interested to make contact with us as soon as possible, and we will provide further information.”

Anyone interested in a Secure Home survey should contact the Community Safety Unit at the Civic Centre in Livingston on 0131 311 3131.

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