How long does it take for a burglar to break in? (2023)

Do burglars break in when you are home?

Contrary to what we see on TV, most burglaries occur during the daytime, between 10 AM and 3 PM. This window presents an opportunity when kids will be at school and people are at work. The average burglar wants to break-in when no one is home.

When you think of an intruder breaking into your home, you most likely imagine them sneaking in the middle of the night when you're sleeping. In reality, it is quite the opposite. Research suggests that most burglars break in during the day, typically between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. on weekdays.

Thieves Tend to Break In Between 10 AM and 3 PM

Movie after movie depicts thieves sneaking into houses under the cover of darkness.

What are the odds of your house being burgled? The FBI crime report expects one in every 36 homes in the US to experience a burglary.

The most common times for break-ins occur between 10 am and 3 pm. Rather than being guarded by night, most burglars choose the daytime to attempt a break-in, targeting homes when they believe no one will be present.

Doors and windows with vulnerable locks are a common access point for burglars. If loosening or bypassing them is simple, then it makes getting inside easy. Garage doors and pet doors are both open passages where burglars can get through quickly, too. Quick departure is another plus for burglars.

Someone may not have stolen anything because they either got scared or didn't find anything to grab. If the burglar thought someone was coming, they wouldn't have time to take anything. If you hide your items well, they may not have found anything to steal in the first place.

Fortunately, unlike movies, most burglars are looking to steal your belongings, not harm you. It's still pretty terrifying, though, to wake up in the middle of the night and realize someone else is in your house—and one can't exactly read a burglar's mind or know his or her intentions.

Where do robbers look first?

Aside from the master bedroom, the office or study is one of the first places burglars check for valuables. Like the living room, some people have the habit of displaying valuables in their study shelves or office. That well-earned diamond necklace can serve as a motivation for you to work harder.

“Do burglars come back after first attempt fail?” Yep! They will often make a second attempt, especially if they were interested in taking something specific that they spotted in your house the first time, and unfortunately, you haven't upgraded your home security.

Leaving on lights at all times doesn't seem to be an effective way to deter crimes. With a little planning and some home automation equipment, you can use lighting to your advantage and get better peace of mind.