A Woodland Hills home under construction was burglarized this week, with police saying thieves took about $100,000 in property.
The homeowner reported the break-in Wednesday around noon after discovering the burglary near Valley Circle and Burbank boulevards, according to NBC Los Angeles.
The stolen items included a safe, jewelry, and DJ equipment. Police said no arrests had been made as of Thursday.
A house in the middle of work may have contractors coming and going, temporary access points, unfinished locks, exposed doors, or equipment left behind between visits.
The Home Was Still Under Construction
NBC Los Angeles reported that investigators believe the burglars entered through a back glass door. The report did not say what stage the construction work was in or whether anyone was living at the property.
During renovations, rear doors, side gates, garages, and temporary openings should be checked at the end of each workday. Owners should also know who has keys, codes, garage access, or permission to be on the property after hours.
Valuables Should Leave Before the Work Starts
A renovation is a good time to move jewelry, cash, collectibles, portable electronics, and important documents out of the house. A locked bedroom or closet may not offer much protection if workers, deliveries, or inspectors are moving through the property.
Safes should be bolted securely or stored elsewhere, and expensive tools or equipment should be photographed with serial numbers saved before they are left on site.
Temporary Access Still Needs Daily Security
The City of La Cañada Flintridge recommends additional locking devices on sliding glass doors and windows, locks on gates, garages, and sheds, and keeping expensive valuables in a safe or bank deposit box when possible.
The San Jose Police Department tells residents to keep outside doors and windows locked, use exterior lighting, keep garage doors closed, and store visible items such as tools, bicycles, lawn equipment, and barbecues out of sight.
If an owner arrives and finds a broken door, open window, missing lockbox, or other sign of a break-in, police guidance says not to enter. Call law enforcement first, avoid touching anything, and leave the scene as undisturbed as possible for officers.