Home burglary: what should I do? 2026

A heist  at home is a shocking experience that can generate fear, confusion and helplessness . However, acting quickly and following the appropriate steps will help you both collaborate with the police and expedite insurance procedures.

• How to improve the security of my home if I live alone

Below you will find a detailed guide on what to do after a robbery and how to react if it happens while you are inside the home.

Call the police

The first and most important thing is immediately notify the police . Do not enter the home if you think the thief might still be inside; Always wait outside and in a safe place. If you have already logged in and discover the theft, log out again and call the 091 (National Police) or to 112 .

Police intervention will allow secure the area, begin the first investigations and write a report which will be essential in subsequent procedures.

Photograph the state of the home

While you wait for the police (always avoiding touching or moving objects) take photographs of the state in which you found the home :

• forced doors
• broken windows
• open drawers
• Troubled areas

These images will be great help both for the police and for you insurance company.

Don't touch anything, or move anything.

It is essential do not clean, organize, move or correct damage . Any small detail may contain fingerprints, tools used by thieves or traces that help the investigation. The police will carry out a visual inspection and collect possible evidence.

Make a list of missing goals

Once the police allow you, take a count of your belongings and prepare a detailed list of stolen items . The more information you provide, the better:

• Description
• Brand
• Model
• Serial number
• Approximate value

This list will be essential in the complaint and in the process with insurance.

Recover the invoices

To justify the ownership of the stolen objects, collect invoices, tickets and purchase documents . Guarantees, budgets or any proof of purchase are also valid.

I have been robbed and I don't have the purchase invoices, what do I do?

If you do not keep the invoices, there are alternatives:

• Request a duplicate in the store where you purchased the item.
• Introduce photos where the stolen object appears.
• Show manuals, packaging or guarantees .
• Provide purchase emails or online order captures.

The Insurance companies usually accept several types of receipts as long as they demonstrate ownership.

File a complaint

Go to the nearest police station to formalize the complaint . Take with you:

• ID
• List of stolen items
• Photographs of the state of the home
• Invoices or proof of ownership

Reporting is mandatory so that the insurance can analyze your case and to activate the official investigation.

Inform your bank

If among the stolen items there are cards, checkbooks or devices with access to your accounts, quickly contact your bank for:

• Block cards
• Modify passwords
• Review suspicious movements

You must also Notify if your documentation has been stolen with personal data.

What to do if your house is broken into and you are inside?

If he home robbery happens while you are indoors, your priority should be keep you safe . Keep the following points in mind:

Make noise and turn on the lights

If they have not yet entered your room or the area where you are, make noise or activate lights can deter them .

Lock yourself in a more inaccessible room

Close doors, block access and ensure a safe space to take refuge .

Call the police

Do it from your mobile without leaving the room . Keep your voice low if necessary.

Have panic button ? Activate it!

Many alarms include it and send it immediate notice to central recipient.

Avoid confrontation with attackers

Don't try to confront them. Objects can be replaced ; your physical integrity, no.

keep calm

Breathe, avoid sudden movements and follow police instructions until they arrive.

Frequently asked questions

What can you do so they don't break into your house to steal?

The key to avoiding a home robbery is to combine physical measurements with technological solutions:

• Always close doors and windows , even in brief absences.
• Install security locks or armored doors.
• Wear light timers when you're away.
• Do not publish absences prolonged periods on social networks.
• Maintain a good relationship with neighbors to detect suspicious noises or movements.

How to protect your home from theft?

The best way to prevent an assault at home is strengthen security at the entrances to the doors and windows. The security systems currently available on the market are your best weapon.

You can choose the devices and services that best suit your circumstances and needs. You have options video surveillance, alarms of all types, s advanced sensors and many more.

You just have to find the ones that are perfect for your home.

Should I defend myself if they enter my house?

The general recommendation is don't confront thieves . The priority should always be your personal safety. Call the police, take shelter in a safe place and avoid confrontation It is the most responsible action.

The law contemplates the self defense in extreme situations, but only when your integrity is at risk and your reaction is proportional and necessary.

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