Skip to content
Home » News » How Burglars Target UK Homeowners Over 60

How Burglars Target UK Homeowners Over 60

  • by
Where burglars most commonly break into homes?

As we get older, feeling safe at home becomes more important than ever. Unfortunately, burglars know this too — and many areas across the UK have seen an increase in break‑ins involving older homeowners.

The good news? Most burglaries are completely preventable with a few simple steps.

Below is a clear, easy‑to‑read guide on how burglars choose their targets, and what you can do to protect your home.

Why Burglars Target Over‑60s

Burglars look for homes where they believe:

🛡️ Worried About Losing Your Home to Care Fees?

Many UK homeowners don’t realise their property can be used to pay for care fees. Get free advice before a crisis hits and protect what you’ve worked your whole life for.

Request Your Free Estate Planning Review

  • The homeowner is less likely to challenge them

  • The property appears easier to access

  • Security systems are older or non‑existent

  • The home looks unoccupied at certain times

  • There are signs of predictable routines

They’re not looking for confrontation — they’re looking for the easiest possible opportunity.

The 3 Most Common Mistakes Burglars Look For

1. No visible alarm or deterrent

Homes without a modern alarm system are three times more likely to be targeted. Burglars often walk down a street and simply choose the easiest house.

2. Dark areas around doors and windows

Poor lighting makes it easier for someone to approach unnoticed.
Motion‑activated lights are one of the simplest ways to deter intruders.

3. Signs the homeowner is older

Burglars look for clues such as:

  • Mobility aids near the door

  • Older‑style locks

  • No CCTV or alarm box

  • Curtains closed during the day

  • A quiet, predictable routine

These signals tell them the home may be easier to access.

Simple Steps That Make Your Home a Hard Target

Install a visible alarm box

Even a basic monitored alarm dramatically reduces the chance of a break‑in.
Burglars avoid homes with modern alarm systems.

Use motion‑activated lighting

A £20 light can stop a burglar in their tracks.

Keep doors and windows updated

Older locks are easier to force.
Modern locks are designed to resist common break‑in methods.

Vary your routine slightly

Even small changes — like leaving a light on a timer — make a difference.

Consider monitored protection

Monitored alarms alert a professional team instantly, even if you’re:

  • Asleep

  • Out shopping

  • Visiting family

  • Away on holiday

This is why many over‑60s choose monitored systems for peace of mind.

Why Over‑60s Qualify for a Security Discount

Many UK home‑security providers offer reduced‑rate packages for homeowners aged 60 and over. This can include:

  • Lower installation cost

  • Discounted equipment

  • Reduced monthly monitoring

  • A free home‑security assessment

It’s designed to help older homeowners stay protected without high upfront costs.

Want to Learn More About the Over‑60s Security Discount?

If you’d like to see what support is available, you can learn more here:

👉 Learn about the over‑60s security discount

This is a no‑obligation information page — just clear, simple details to help you stay safe at home.