And we’re not much better with the very security devices which are meant to protect us, the survey shows. Less than a quarter (24 per cent) of those questioned have a burglar alarm and turn it on before they go out, under three quarters (73 per cent) and only half (52 per cent) say they always leave some lights on when away from home.

Despite the major gap between perceptions and reality about household security, almost nine in 10 (89 per cent) of those quizzed believe that homeowners that do take safety precautions seriously, such as fitting locks, alarms, and other measures should pay lower insurance premiums. In contrast, a surprising and worrying finding reveals that only eight in ten (83 per cent) have a home insurance policy.

Ian Parker, Managing Director of Privilege Home Insurance says:

“The gap between people’s perceptions about safety consciousness and the reality is considerable. It seems that many of us are convinced that our homes are safe and yet we are not taking the necessary precautions to keep our homes secure.

We want to remind people

To ensure people keep their homes as safe and secure as possible, Privilege Home Insurance has created a simple ‘Don’t leave home without’ checklist.

Don’t leave home without:

• Checking all doors and windows are closed and locked. 
  
• Switching on the security alarm, if you have one.
• Checking all gas and electrical appliances are switched off and not left on standby.
  
• Placing valuables in a safe place.
• Ensuring fires and candles are extinguished.

Privilege Insurance now offers home insurance and guarantees to beat any renewal quote for those who have had four claim free years.