Alliance & Leicester Personal Loans found that in order to feel safe, more than two out of three people would consider investing in a top of the range alarm system with motion sensors and a direct link to their local police station.

More than half would consider spending on a CCTV system that overlooks doors, windows and the property’s boundary, while a similar number would invest in motion sensor security lights. One in three would like a security patrol, while one in five would be prepared to invest in window and door bars.

One in three also say they would like to live in a gated community. But according to estate agent Hamptons International, it comes at a price and could add a further 20 to 25 per cent to the cost of a property, making it prohibitively expensive for many people. Less expensive ways of improving home security vary in price considerably, from the cheaper window locks through to hi-tech protection systems.

Richard Al-Dabbagh, Senior Personal Loans Manager at Alliance & Leicester, said: “It is only natural we should want to protect our homes. Clearly the best way to do so is to invest in equipment which will either deter or prevent would-be burglars from attempting to break in. Although the simplest ways can be the most effective, householders who want greater peace of mind are willing to consider further security enhancements to their homes. By spending around £8,500, the majority of homes could have a level of security that would deter many would-be burglars.

“Although CCTV and alarm systems may not stop a house being targeted, they both present a very visible deterrent, even to the experienced and expert burglar. Burglary is an opportunist crime for the most part. A burglar selects their target because it offers the best opportunity to carry out their crime undetected and with fewest obstacles.”