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Parcel Theft in Flats You and Your Neighbours Can Protect Each Other
Over recent years more and more people are ordering deliveries online. And they're often not home when the delivery arrives - which means the delivery man uses the entryphone system to find someone who'll let them in. All too often someone does let them in, which is why parcel theft is on the increase. However, you and your neighbours can help protect each other by following a few simple guidelines.
Parcel Theft in Blocks of Flats
When a delivery man gains access to a block of flats, the potential for a crime to be committed is enormous.
Firstly, if your neighbour's not home, the delivery man can't hand the parcel to your neighbour. More often than not, they will leave the parcel by the front door of the flat ... and leave. The delivery man has a photo to prove he delivered - but the parcel's left unsecured, waiting for anybody to steal it.
If you press the entryphone buzzer and let the delivery man in - make sure you get the parcel handed to you, so you can keep it safe for your neighbour. The delivery man will record that he's handed the parcel to a neighbour - your neighbour will be informed - and there's no danger of the parcel being stolen.
The second problem that arises when a delivery man asks you to let them into the block is ... you don't know if they're a genuine delivery man or a thief. All you hear is a voice - and even if you do see the delivery man - how do you know they're genuinely who they say they are?
Look at the man on the left. Is he a genuine delivery man? Or is he a happy smiling thief?
Once you let an unknown person into the building, they're free to walk through the corridors and hallways, picking up any parcels or other possessions that have been left lying around. You're potentially making a thief's life easy - and your neighbour suffers a parcel theft unnecessarily.
You and Your Neighbours can Protect Each by Following These Rules:
-
Don't let strangers into the building.
If you don't know the person asking to be let in - say "No" ... politely of course. Alternatively, go and meet them at the front door and if they are a genuine delivery man, take the parcel on behalf of your neighbour ... giving the delivery man your name and flat number (which he'll pass on to your neighbour). -
If you see a parcel left unattended - take it in
When you see a parcel has been left unattended in a corridor - take it in for your neighbour and look after it. Leave a little note for them, so they know where the parcel has gone ... and/or deliver their parcel personally when they've come back home. -
Make arrangements with your neighbours
When you're expecting a parcel to be delivered and you know you're going to be out when it arrives - make arrangements with your neighbours for them to take the parcel for you ... and advise the delivery company. And do the same for them, when they know they're going to be out. A little neighbourly-ness goes a long way toward keeping everybody safe.
If a Parcel Goes Missing ...
If you and your neighbours are not careful, at some point a parcel theft will occur. Greater Manchester Police say if you think a parcel has been stolen ... or if you notice anyone acting suspiciously ... you can make a report online at www.gmp.police.uk or by calling 101.
Always dial 999 if it’s an emergency.
Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.
More helpful tips can be found on the Greater Manchester Police's website.
Best wishes,
Paul
Paul Casserly
Casserly Property Management
P.S. If you've found this article interesting, informative or useful in any way, please share it using the following links. And I'd love to hear your thoughts, as well. Just leave your comments below. Thank you.
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