Burglary is a major concern for many homeowners in Flanders. Fortunately, the government offers a free service: theft prevention advice. Here’s how to request it and what to expect!
Contents
- What is free theft prevention advice?
- Why apply for theft prevention?
- Is there a premium for burglary prevention?
- How do you request free theft prevention advice?
What is free theft prevention advice?
Local police and municipalities in Flanders offer free theft prevention advice. Do you request theft prevention advice? Then a prevention advisor comes to your home to inspect your home and gives customized recommendations so you can better secure your home. This advice is completely free of charge and without obligation.
Why apply for theft prevention?
- It costs you nothing. As a result, you don’t need expensive security consultations.
- The prevention consultant is objective and professional. It is not a salesman.
- The recommendations are non-binding. Thus, you are under no obligation to implement them.
- The advice is tailored specifically to your home and situation. You spot “blind spots” of your home with this.
- You significantly reduce the chances of a burglary. Make it difficult for burglars to get in.
- You protect yourself, your family and your (valuable) property. The amount of a theft averages 4,000 euros.
Is there a premium for burglary prevention?
Yes, some municipalities offer a premium if you follow burglary prevention recommendations. So be sure to check what your local municipality’s prevention premium is. For example:
- In Turnhout, the prevention premium is 30% of the cost (with a maximum of 600 euros).
- In De Panne, the prevention premium is 25% of the costs (with a maximum of 500 euros). And for merchants, an additional premium of 50% on camera system is provided (with a maximum of 1,000 euros per premises).
How do you request free theft prevention advice?
Get free theft prevention advice following these steps:
Step 1: Find the records of your local police or municipality
Go to the website of your local police district or municipality. Search for information on theft prevention or safety advice.
Step 2: Contact your local police or municipality
Contact your local police district or municipality at:
- Prevention service: Some municipalities have a prevention service with its own phone number, e-mail address and/or contact form. This is the most effective way to contact them.
- General contact information: Doesn’t your municipality have a prevention service? Then contact the general phone number, e-mail address or contact form.
Step 3: Schedule an appointment
After submitting your application, a prevention consultant will contact you to schedule an appointment. Arrange a convenient time to have your home inspected.
Step 4: On-site visit
The prevention advisor checks:
- your doors and windows: locks, hinges and additional security.
- your lighting: outdoor lighting in dark places around your home.
- Your alarm systems: alarm systems and any monitoring center linkage.
- Your garden and surroundings: yard, fences and any outbuildings.
Step 5: Receive the report
After the inspection, you will receive a detailed report with recommendations. Choose which recommendations you follow to make your home safer.
Sources: police, Turnhout, Flanders