A new study has revealed that more than a third of people don’t check that all of their doors are locked before going on holiday.

Research from Aviva has shown that only 61 percent - or three-fifths - of people check all doors when they go away, and only 58 percent check that windows are closed.

Other safety checks come even further behind, with 57 percent of holidaymakers admitting that they don’t check that sheds and garages are secure, and 81 percent leaving garden furniture out.

As well as this, nine percent of people hide keys under doormats or plant pots, despite the fact that 14 percent of the people surveyed had experienced their home being burgled in the past.

Aviva reports that claims for UK home thefts are 48 percent higher in July to September compared to the rest of the year, with claims averaging a value of £6,000.

The company has offered up its best advice for those planning to go away on holiday this year.

Don’t forget to lock up

Aviva research finds that two-fifths of people don’t check that their doors or windows are locked before they go on holiday.

Don’t advertise your holiday on social media

Before you travel and while you’re away, be mindful that countdown trackers and holiday snaps will let others know you’re not at home.

Leave a key with a trusted neighbour, friend or family member

But give the key to the person to look after – don’t leave under a plant pot or doormat where anyone could find it. Ask your trusted person to check for other internal issues such as water leaks, as well as signs of unwanted guests.

Make your home seem occupied while away

Use timers to switch on lamps and radios to give the impression of someone being at home.

Ask a neighbour to park on your driveway

Again, this suggests that someone is living at the property.

Consider investing in a burglar alarm and security lighting

Both are practical ways to protect your home and can act as a deterrent to burglars.

Mow lawns and trim hedges before you go

An overgrown garden is a giveaway that residents may have gone away.

Lock ladders and tools away

Some burglars will have their own toolkits, but others are more opportunistic, so make sure sheds and outbuildings are locked.

Keep your valuables out of sight

Where possible, keep valuables away from windows. Similarly, don’t store valuables in the bedroom. Thieves know that’s where most people keep their precious items, so hide them in different spots around the home.

Kelly Whittington, Property Claims Director for Aviva UK, commented: “So many people have postponed their breaks because of the pandemic, so summer 2022 is a fantastic time for holidays. But we’d urge people not to get so excited that they forget to carry out checks and leave their homes vulnerable while they’re away.

“A few simple steps can help to deter burglars and keep homes secure – so people aren’t returning to a post-holiday headache.”