Postcoding your property
Postcode your property
One of the best ways to protect your property and keep it secure is by postcoding your valuable items.
By doing this it helps police to return your property to you in the event it is stolen and subsequently recovered and makes it harder for thieves to sell the items on.
Your postcode and house number or name, provides a great way of identifying your property. For example LE19 2BX 11 (postcode followed by house number) or LE19 2BX FO (postcode followed by first two letters of house name).
Depending on the type of product you want to mark there are several ways you can make it identifiable.
Engraving or etching
Engraving or etching is a good way of marking hard surfaces but it does leave a permanent visible mark.
Ultra-violet or 'Invisible' marking
An ultra-violet (UV) marker pen is an ideal way of leaving an invisible mark on your property and can only been seen by using a UV lamp. However, this mark can easily be washed off or fade with time so needs to be reapplied regularly.
Punching
Heavier metal items such as lawnmowers can be marked using a hammer and a set of punches.
Where to mark your property
Where you mark your property is important. If you are engraving the item, the mark needs to be out of sight and either behind or underneath the article, but not hidden somewhere that the police wouldn’t be able to find it.
Try to mark the surface so that it can’t be removed without spoiling the appearance or performance of the item.
Some things like jewellery and antiques can be difficult to mark and could reduce their value so you should get expert advice before marking such items.
It is advisable to make a separate note of serial numbers and take pictures of valuables to help the police with their enquiries if the items are stolen. You can use the this form to help keep a record of your valuable property and note where each item has been marked in the event they are stolen.
Further information and easy to use property marking kits are available from your local policing unit.
