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London businesses are more vulnerable to burglaries now than at any other time of year, says a commercial property consultant.

Offices are often left empty over the festive season as everyone enjoys their office parties and the bank holidays. At the same time, longer periods of darkness at this time of year mean these buildings become easier for burglars to target, says Search Office Space.

Last year, 2,500 commercial premises in London were burgled in December, prompting warnings from the Metropolitan police that shorter daylight hours lead to an increase in burglaries.

Detective inspector Dominic Parkin from the City of London police says, ‘It's important that businesses do what they can to protect their property, because the costs of a break-in can be significant.

‘Businesses should take note of crime prevention advice so they can better protect themselves from this threat.’

Richard Smith, managing director of Search Office Space adds, ‘London offices are a potential target for any burglar, particularly at this time of the year. Not only do they contain expensive equipment, but priceless intellectual property is put at risk if precautionary measures aren’t put in place for the holiday period.

‘We’re determined to make it as difficult as possible for thieves to succeed this year and urge all businesses to protect their offices by following our top tips for staying safe this season.’

Search Office Space advises giving trusted staff members specific responsibility for closing and locking all doors and windows before they leave the building.

Other suggestions include organising a system to log who was first in the building and last out, not leaving personal valuables in the office over Christmas, and making sure the burglar alarm is installed somewhere visible and there is clear notification of the security and CCTV for the building.

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