Interviews with prolific burglars conducted by researchers at the University of Huddersfield and West Yorkshire Police indicate that burglars target homes that they think will have valuables inside.
Burglars are very observant and opportunistic. They typically look for easy access to the side and rear of a property so they can operate without being seen or heard by neighbours or passers-by.
They are more likely to target homes that are not alarmed, as they don’t want to draw attention to their actions. Time and noise are their enemies!
They will also look for open or insecure windows and doors or for vulnerable features they can exploit such as overgrown bushes and trees that make it easier for them to get close to a home unnoticed.
Burglars may also choose a home because there is a specific vehicle, motorcycle, or bicycle they want to steal. Sheds and garages often contain tools and ladders which can be used to force entry into a home.
It is not uncommon for burglars to return to homes that they had burgled once before because the homeowner had not updated their security after the first burglary.