Burglars generally prefer empty properties, often looking for visual clues such as an empty drive. Evidence of occupancy is generally a bad sign so any lights, televisions and radios left on are usually off-putting for burglars.

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Ironically, a common tactic employed by homeowners to make the house look occupied, leaving the curtains closed, actually encourages burglars who believe it indicates the occupants are on holiday.

If the property is going to be vacant for an extended period, ask a trusted neighbour to open and close curtains, turn lights on and off, and remove unopened post that is visible so that the property continues to look occupied.

Prof Gill said: “Burglary is a ‘skilled’ crime. Indeed the invention and attention to detail shown by this group of burglars shows that they are indeed extremely professional in the way they go about making your home their business.”

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Burglars are attracted by the sight of valuables, including car keys. They spot these by simply looking through windows and doors. Householders need to e careful about the type of goods that are on display.

Conducted on behalf of Halifax Home Insurance, by leading criminologist Professor Martin Gill, the study probed a group of British Burglars to gain an insight into how they operate.

Prof Gill said: “It’s little wonder that Britain is the poor relation in Europe when it comes to burglary rates, given the startling ease with which thieves told us they can get into our homes. Britons could certainly be doing far more to protect both their homes and families.”

The majority of offenders preferred opportunist burglaries because it ‘made their lives easier’. In the majority of cases, these opportunities were said to present themselves in the form of an open window or an unlocked door – most burglars opting for the back door first.

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If an opportunity didn’t present itself, then the second most common type of burglary in the study was breaking and entering, or forced entry. A variety of techniques were used for this, such as using a crow bar, spade or shovel; wrapping a brick in a jumper and smashing a window or simply kicking a door down.

Generally, burglars like to access properties from the rear as it offers a safer environment. Having adequate fences and locked gates can make this a less inviting opportunity.

Alleyways are seen as a useful resource in both accessing properties from the back and providing a quick escape.

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Vicky Emmot, senior manager of Underwriting for Halifax Home Insurance, said: “The report provides a number of frightening insights into how a burglar operates, which will hopefully make people think how they might better protect their home. However, the starkest message is that – no matter how secure it is – the most determined burglars are prepared to stop at nothing to access your property, especially if they’ve seen something they want.

“While good home contents insurance should cover you for any financial loss, items of sentimental value can’t be replaced, and having someone invade your property is an extremely distressing experience.”