Although it may not be apparent to victims of home burglaries, the fact is that the number of domestic break ins is actually down on previous years. In 2004 the total number of burglaries was 943,000. This figure is actually 42% lower then in 1997 and nearly 27% lower than in 1999.

Insuring our home correctly means that financially we should not be out of pocket, it does not stop the terrible feelings of violation and the sadness at the loss of sentimental items that can not be replaced.

There are two main categories of insurance, one is buildings insurance and the other is for home contents. You can buy them together or separately and although home contents insurance is not a legal requirement it is highly recommended. You can choose the type of cover you would like and opt for a ‘new for old' basis.

There are a number of factors that will determine how much you pay to insure your home and its contents. Your post code will give insurers a rule of thumb snapshot. You may live in an area prone to flooding or one with a high crime rate.

There are various criteria that insurance companies will use to evaluate your situations and so calculate your premiums these include;

Valuables - Any valuable items such as pictures, jewelery and antiques should be valued and included separately on any policy.

Valuations – This is the cost of rebuilding your porperty at todays prices and not the original purchase price. This is the sum the buildings insurance is based on as a whole.

Occupancy – Many insurance companies will not provide cover if your property is unoccupied for more than 30 days at a time.

The excess - How much will you pay towards a claim?

New for old – Are personal possessions replaced on this basis?

Home office – If you work from home, your office equipment may need to be insured on a separate policy as it will often be of a higher value then a one off home computer.