It is important to consider the security of a property before you sign an agreement.

Search for property in the Virtual Bureau that meets the MSH security standards. Once in the property it can be difficult to get landlords to make additional safety measures to the property.
Also consider the area that the property is in as there is nothing the landlord or you can do about this. Important considerations before signing an agreement:

• Chose a house where there is adequate street lighting
• Ground floor windows and those near to flat roofs and drainpipes should be fitted with key operated locks
• External doors should be fitted with five-lever mortise locks that conform to British standard 3621
• Bolts on the top and bottom of doors will help prevent them being forced
• Doors and windows should be in a good state of repair - rotting wood is easy to force
• Back yard and side paths should be fitted with gates
• Is there a burglar alarm that works?

Insurance

Insurance policies and the premiums (the price of the policy) that companies charge vary. When taking out insurance on a shared house you should:

• Shop around; look at banks and building societies as well as specialist insurers
• Read the policy carefully to see what is covered and what isn't.
• Question the insurers carefully about what the policy covers
• Check with your parents to see if you can be covered on their home contents insurance

If credit cards or cheque cards have been stolen, inform your bank immediately, they will have a 24-hour help-line.

Make a list of stolen items and any damage to property. You will need this for the police report, for any insurance claim and for your landlord.

If any official documents such as passports or driving licences have been stolen, contact the issuing authority as soon as possible.

Support and counselling

Your Student Advice Centre or university support services can provide advice if you have been burgled. All the Universities in Cardiff and Glamorgan also provide Counselling services offering free and confidential advice.

Help can also be sought from the Cardiff Victim Support Scheme which is part of the national network of victim support offering practical help and emotional support to victims of crime.
Compensation

If violence is used against you during a burglary you will be able to apply for Criminal Injuries Compensation.

Once in the property:

• Leave lights on if everyone in the house is out, or use automatic time switches
• Remove all valuable items during holidays
• Never let anyone into the property without seeing some ID. If they say they represent the owner or the managing agents check that this is true.
• If you have doubts about the security of your house contact the Community Safety Officer at your local Police Station.