It may surprise you that according to the National Union of Students, as many as one in five students fall victim to property crime whilst at college or university. 

Thieves know that student residences are full of expensive gear; laptops, tablets, phones, bikes and cameras provide rich pickings. In fact, the average break-in costs £900 to repair the damage and replace belongings.

A lot of theft is opportunistic – a few simple steps can be enough to make thieves think twice and move on. 

• When you go out, make sure all windows and doors are locked. It’s an obvious one but double-check!
• Check windows for vulnerabilities. Make sure they’re robust, secure and fitted with locks. If they’re not, speak to your landlord or letting agent. 
• Don’t advertise your valuables to thieves. Ensure your valuables are not visible through windows. 
• Register your possessions at Immobilise.com. It’s FREE and provides the simplest way to return your property if found after loss or theft. 
• Keep your gate shut and bolted at all times. Ensure bins don’t make it easy for burglars to climb over walls or fences. 
• Simulate occupancy with light timers or products like a FakeTV. 
• Get insurance. It is tempting to save money, but it’s a false economy. Make sure it covers all your stuff. 
• Bikes should be kept in the school’s designated areas and secured with a D-lock to an immovable object such as a ground-mounted loop. Don’t forget to register the bike at Immobilise.com

Registering your property at Immobilise.com is FREE. You can register property irrespective of any 3rd party labelling used; it’s all accepted!