Council Housing crime prevention
Safe estates
We want to make our properties as secure as possible, but we need your help to do this. We are always thinking about ways to improve the general security of our estates. We do this by better design or by improving features such as doors, windows and locks. Or, on certain estates, by using entry phones or by having someone at a reception desk in the entrance to flats.
What you can do to help
You can make any suggestions you have to help us to improve security, to your housing officer or through your tenants' association. Good lighting prevents a lot of crime on estates. Please report any faulty lights in public areas to your caretaker or housing officer as soon as possible.
How to avoid being burgled
Burglaries cause a great deal of distress even if nothing valuable is stolen. Don't make it easy for burglars.
Remember: Remove the opportunity - prevent the burglary
- Close all windows and secure and lock all entrance doors when you go out. Mortice and window locks put burglars off, so it's a good idea to fit them.
- Don't let thieves know your home is empty by leaving curtains closed in the day-time, or by leaving notes for callers.
- When you go on holiday or leave your home for some time, cancel your milk and newspaper deliveries.
- Never leave cash or valuables lying around. Engrave any particularly valuable items or mark them with an ultra-violet security pen which can be purchased from most hardware shops. Also take photographs of your valuables.
- Lock up before you go to bed. Make sure that the windows are closed, especially on the ground floor or near drainpipes or flat roofs.
- Fit a chain to your front door, particularly if you are elderly or live on your own. A spy-hole in the front door is especially useful.
- Never let strangers in unless they prove their identity. This includes all Lambeth workers. If you're suspicious, call the police. The crime prevention officer at your local police station will give you more information about making your home secure.