I have some personal experience of a car being nicked, combined with a burglary

So whilst everyone's feelings are different, I do think I can contribute a few useful words of advice

Starting with getting the balance right

As I said earlier, you can become paranoid

But against that, it's easy to be far too casual

There is a lot to be said for simply making your possessions more hard work to acquire than those of other people

Unfortunately, insurance companies are quick to take your premium payment, but somewhat more reluctant to pay out on claims (reasonable checks notwithstanding)

This alone should be enough to persuade people that a claim is something to be avoided if at all possible

A few physical barriers and a good Police linked alarm system, won't cost a fortune, and will suffice for most theft scenarios

 

Sound words Ian. As you say good insurance is the key.

My stolen car was insured with Direct Line who were a bit annoying in that the insurance payout approval person will only talk to you by appointment and by calling you. Takes a few days for him to speak to you and adds to the stress as no one else will tell you anything. Apparently this puts you on the back foot and helps catch out the fraudsters, which is fine once you know why they are treating you like scum.

Following the interview they are fine and payout was good, which is the main thing.

Car Contents were covered by Norwich Union home insurance who are amazing.

Good insurance cover is therefore definately worth it.

 

For some reason I have always ended up living in high car crime areas (Swansea and now E.London) and have caught 3 people red handed and had the delightful experience of watching another set a car on fire.

The ones I have caught always have legged it before I could get there (usually i seem to be shouting from an upstairs window!).

Therefore an air rifle or tazer is the answer i say!

To be honest though you can guarantee a lot of them will be carrying knives or some kind of weapon so its probably best to steer clear.

 

if the police executed for this type of crime there wouldn't be a problem would there?

 

Alarm combined with dog and wooden doors not uPVC with either low fencing (so people can easily see) or seriously high and nasty fencing was the advice given to me by a police officer. Seems sensible.

Worst case, they trash the fences and house to gain access, shoot the dogs, tie you up and steal everything anyway, probably in your car. Advantage of the S - not that much space for the 42 inch plasma screen TV and other ill gotton gains to be piled in it!!!

 

How desirable is an S2000 to thieves though??