What day do most break-ins happen?

Asked by: Dr. Lambert Robel IV  |  Last update: July 12, 2025
Score: 4.3/5 (72 votes)

Burglars often target homes when they believe residents are not present, with the majority of break-ins happening between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. The peak days for burglar activity are from Tuesday to Thursday, as burglars are less likely to strike on weekends when people are more likely to be at home.

What is the most common time for break-ins?

Knowing when most burglaries occur is powerful information. The most common times for break-ins occur between 10 am and 3 pm. Rather than being guarded by night, most burglars choose the daytime to attempt a break-in, targeting homes when they believe no one will be present.

What day of the week do most break-ins happen?

Empty homes with no lights and limited security will stand out on a winters eve. The likelihood of falling victim to burglary varies not only by month but also, would you believe it, by day of the week! According to cooperative insurer's research theft is most likely to occur on a Friday.

What puts burglars off the most?

Security measures that put burglars off
  • Alarm Systems. Burglars hate alarm systems - and for very good reason! ...
  • Security cameras. CCTV cameras can also deter burglars from attempting to enter your home. ...
  • Barking dog. ...
  • A secure garden. ...
  • Access points. ...
  • Teamwork. ...
  • Obvious absence. ...
  • Social media oversharing.

Are apartments less likely to be robbed?

Apartment dwellers often believe they're protected from intrusions because they live above street level. Thieves, however, can still scale balconies or sneak into your building. Statistics from the US Department of Justice show that almost 40% of unlawful entries are through an unlocked door or window.

Summer Crime Safety: How fast break-ins can happen

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What houses do burglars avoid?

Houses routinely vacant during the day.

Houses that appear occupied—with the lights on, a vehicle in the driveway, visible activity, or audible noises from within—are less likely to be burglarized. 28 Even houses near occupied houses generally have a lower risk of burglary.

Which apartment is most likely to be broken into?

Apartment buildings with two to four units typically see the highest amount of burglaries.

What do thieves fear the most?

Security yard signs discourage many thieves. You may have already suspected it, but studies do confirm that burglars -- around 83% surveyed -- are scared off by signs that an alarm system is present, and one of the most straightforward is a literal sign or window sticker.

How to scare off an intruder?

It therefore makes a lot of sense to know the best ways to deter burglars from attempting a break-in.
  1. Visible alarm systems. An intruder alarm should head up your priority list if you are looking to prevent break-ins. ...
  2. CCTV cameras. ...
  3. Locked doors and windows. ...
  4. Thorny borders. ...
  5. Lighting. ...
  6. Barking dog. ...
  7. Gravel.

Do Ring doorbells encourage burglars?

While Ring doorbells have gained popularity among homeowners, there is a growing concern about how these devices can actually attract burglars. According to experts, the presence of a Ring doorbell or any other security device can indicate to burglars that there are valuable items worth stealing.

Does leaving TV on deter burglars?

Pro Tip: Along with leaving your TV on while you're away, you should also keep a few lights on inside and outside your home to keep burglars at bay.

What month do most murders occur?

Murder is a seasonal offense. Rates are generally higher in the summer, except for December, which is often the highest month and almost always 5 to 20 percent above the yearly average.

What do burglars not steal?

Therefore, burglars are unlikely to steal any large or fitted appliances. Weapons and perishable items (like food and alcohol) are also unlikely to be stolen during a standard home invasion.

What type of homes get broken into the most?

The 10 most common types of homes thieves target
  1. Houses near common offenders. Did you know less than 15% of burglars are caught! ...
  2. Low-traffic areas. ...
  3. Previously burgled homes or homes near one. ...
  4. Places to hide. ...
  5. Empty homes. ...
  6. Poor security features. ...
  7. Easy accessibility. ...
  8. Houses with curb appeal.

Do burglars come back after a failed attempt?

Those who have already fallen victim to this statistic, are actually more likely to be burglarized a second time. What are the chances of a repeat burglary? In fact, the chance of a burglar coming back is very high, and as many as one out of every three house burglary victims is a repeat victim.

How to make your house less attractive to burglars?

18 Ways to Theft-Proof Your Home Inside and Out
  1. Look for vulnerable spots. ...
  2. Lock doors and windows. ...
  3. Landscape strategically. ...
  4. Put up a fence. ...
  5. Install double-key deadbolts. ...
  6. Upgrade doors and locks. ...
  7. Install motion sensor lighting. ...
  8. Invest in a home security system.

What is the #1 deterrent for burglars?

1. Home Security Cameras. Our best deterrent for burglars is the presence of an outdoor security camera. Having cameras mounted around your exterior home is a great way to prevent burglars from entering your home!

What do thieves hate most?

I do my best to never, ever, look like a crook. The two things I hate most: loud dogs & nosy neighbors. I'll break a window to get in, even if it makes a little noise. If your neighbor hears one loud sound, he'll stop what he's doing & wait to hear it again.

How do you know if robbers are watching your house?

Common Signs Your House Is Being Cased
  • Sign #1: Parked but Occupied Vehicles. ...
  • Sign #2: A Knock on the Door. ...
  • Sign #3: Binoculars and Cameras. ...
  • Sign #4: Same Faces, Different Day. ...
  • Sign #5: Strangers in Your Yard. ...
  • Step #1: Cameras. ...
  • Step #2: A Home Security System. ...
  • Step #3: Consider a Dog.

What burglars don't want you to know?

The 5 secrets burglars don't want you to know
  • Burglars want you to keep your doors and windows unlocked. ...
  • Burglars don't want you to be home. ...
  • Burglars want to spend as little time as possible inside your home. ...
  • If you own a dog, a burglar is much more likely to steer clear of your home.

Do lights put burglars off?

Similarly, your 24-hour outdoor light doesn't really deter burglars. Instead, they'll be thankful for the light it provides them with. With a light on, burglars can see any obstacles that could create noise, and will also highlight any weak points or entry points around your home.

Do burglars avoid houses with dogs?

Do dogs really act as a burglar deterrent? The short answer is yes, they do!

What floor is the safest in an apartment?

Apartments on top floors are considered premium. The reasons for these are as follows: They provide better ventilation, less polluted air, and great views. In addition to these, they are safer, compared with a ground floor apartment where thieves can break in.

What are the odds of your house being broken into?

In 2021, the burglary rate was approximately 9 out of 1,000 households, according to the Bureau of Justice Statistics. A total of 833,280 households were victimized by burglary in 2021, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.

How do I make sure my apartment doesn't get broken into?

Protect your apartment from break-ins
  1. Get to know your neighbors and landlord. ...
  2. Add extra locks to your doors and windows. ...
  3. Install an apartment-friendly security system. ...
  4. Practice intercom security. ...
  5. Use a security checklist before signing the lease. ...
  6. Don't leave anything exposed on your property.