The Blessing Of Busybody Neighbours

For those of us who live in suburban streets it is a familiar site when we drive down the road, the ‘curtain twitch’. We have all done it and it is usually driven by curiosity to see who is coming. However, it seems that having busybody neighbours may not be at the top of everybody's wish-list but while away on holiday having someone peering over the fence can be very helpful.

According to recent research done by a leading insurance firm having nosey neighbours can help prevent crime. Not only can your neighbours water your plants and feed your fish they can also stop your house being burgled while you are away.

The best possible people to have as neighbours – as far as home insurance firms are concerned – are women over the age of 50.

And contrary to general assumptions about the decline of communal spiritedness, 97 per cent of people say that they would be prepared to watch a neighbour's home.

"Contrary to popular belief we are not a nation of nosey neighbours," said a representative of the company who commissioned the research.

"It may actually be quite reassuring that at this time of year, the curtains may be twitched back to watch your house."

There are other ways to make sure you house isn’t burgled while you are on holiday.

Top tips:

•    Cancel any milk or paper deliveries – this will also save you money.
•    Cut the lawn before you go so that by the time you come back it has not grown too much.
•    Don’t put your home address on luggage labels.
•    Get a neighbour or friend to go in to your house and put on a few lights. Ask them to draw the curtains at night and open them in the morning. Also get them to collect your post. It helps if you offer to do the same for them when they are away.
•    Put any valuables in a small safe or secure and hidden place in the home.

If you would like to know more about home insurance why not ask AnswerBank Insurance.