Students at risk of burglary, despite drop in figures

Domestic burglaries have dropped 39 per cent since 1997, but today's gadget-clad student is at as high risk of the crime as ever.

Legal & General says that students in private accommodation are at a higher risk of being subjected to burglary than those in university accommodation, yet a third of all students have been victim of crime.

And research states that 65 per cent of students own a computer or laptop and 86 per cent have a mobile phone, thereby increasing their appeal to burglars.

Students are advised to check with the landlord that previous tenants no longer have keys, and to check the room door can be locked if in shared accommodation.

In addition, Legal & General advises students to join the local Neighbourhood Watch scheme and meet the neighbours.

Garry Skelton, marketing director at Legal & General Insurance said: "Today's students have more high value consumer goods per head than the rest of the population.

"In addition, most have their own TV and DVDs and music collections so the value of their belongings can soon mount up. So it is worth checking what insurance cover is in place, that it is at an adequate level and whether there are any limits on high risk items, such as computers."

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