5 Most Stolen Home Items

Recent predictive analytics configured by security system evaluator, SafeAtLast, determined that 3 out of 4 homes will get burglarized over the next 20 years. That’s not a reality most of us want to face, but since knowledge is power, we can proactively protect our space and be that one unburgled home, statistically speaking.

Chances are, you keep some, or all, of the items mentioned here in your home. Read on to learn more about the top five most stolen items and how to protect your home below.

1. Cash, Gold, and Expensive Jewels

When it comes to the most stolen items in home burglaries, cash always tops the list. By far, cash is the easiest item for burglars to steal because it’s difficult to trace stolen cash back to a crime scene. After all, how often do you document the serial numbers on your cash bills before you stash them away or spend them?

The next most stolen items are gold and expensive jewelry. While these items are more easily traceable, they often get sold faster than police can notify nearby shops about the stolen items. Both gold and expensive jewelry often increase in price, so they’re an attractive target for thieves.

If you own significant amounts of gold or expensive, unique jewelry, consider buying additional coverage, known as a rider, to your homeowner's insurance policy. Depending on the value, you may even need an entire policy for one specific item. The first step is to get each piece appraised before you insure it.

2. Medications, Prescriptions, and Drugs

Any form of prescription medication, drugs, or over-the-counter medications are another favorite with thieves. The broad term “drugs” includes items like alcohol, cigarettes, cigars, and more. You may not initially think these would be among the top stolen items, but these commodities are valuable for thieves as well. Some burglars will keep these items for personal use, while others will sell them on the street to make quick money.

3. Electronics and Technology

High-end items like electronics and the latest gadgets and technology are always attractive to burglars. To make matters worse, devices are getting smaller and easier to steal. With that in mind, consider any electronics or technology you own as easy targets.

This includes your:

• Smartphone
• Gaming systems and accessories
• Laptops and PCs
• Drones and remote-controlled vehicles
• Smart-home device controls, such as Alexa
• iPads
• Headphones
• Television

4. Firearms and Tools

Another common target for thieves is expensive tools and equipment. There’s always a booming second-hand market for construction tools, hardware, machinery, and other equipment, so burglars will often take these items from your home, garage or tool shed. Tools and equipment can be difficult to trace back because smart thieves will often scratch away the unique codes imprinted on the tools that identify them. Weapons, as you’re probably aware — especially if you own any — are like catnip to thieves. Firearms could end up getting used in other crimes, or they could be sold quickly. Consider storing firearms in a safe or lockbox if you don’t already do so.

5. Cars, Bikes, and Scooters

Parking cars, bicycles, and scooters outside can attract the wrong kind of attention. Thieves will target older cars too, especially if they have valuable and versatile parts. Some of the most stolen car parts are taken from vehicles parked on the street. If possible, keep cars, scooters, and bicycles in a garage out of sight, rather than on the street – especially at night.

How to Protect Your Home’s Most Valuable Items

Now that you know about the top five most commonly stolen items, the next step is to protect them. Basic ways to safeguard your personal property include installing a security system, locking your doors and windows, and keeping your valuables out of sight and locked in a home safe. However, even the most cautious and vigilant homeowner can still be the victim of a burglary. Check that your homeowners or renters policy has adequate coverage to protect your financial assets — especially if you own fine art, expensive equipment, or jewelry, for example. If your valuables do get stolen, you’ll be able to recoup your losses with compensation from your provider.

Pro tip: It can be easy to forget about valuable items that slip your mind in the aftermath of a break-in, so it’s best to take a complete inventory of all your belongings before anything bad happens. Go from room to room cataloging and photographing everything and keep receipts from all your big-ticket items. That way, if you do ever have to file a claim, you’ll be prepared to get your claim handled quickly.

Top 5 Most Commonly Stolen Items From Homes

As you can see from this list, the most commonly stolen items from homes are the ones that are most easily converted into cash. Burglars don’t want to hold onto your valuables for longer than necessary since it could connect them back to the crime. Selling your items fast makes it harder for investigators to trace the item back to the original thief.

The good news is that your homeowners policy can financially protect your most vulnerable and valuable items. If you’re already a Wawanesa member, ask one of our helpful agents to go over your policy to make sure you’ve got the coverage you need for your current situation. If you’re not a customer yet, get a quote and learn how easy it is to switch.