Crime-related insurance claims increase 25%

CRIME-RELATED insurance claims from companies increased by 25 per cent in the last quarter, with many businesses blaming a lack of police presence, according to a report released today.

Research for the insurance giant Axa also showed most businesses believed local authorities could do more to protect shops, offices and factories from crime, such as installing additional CCTV cameras.

Arson was the most expensive crime reported by firms in the second quarter of the year, followed by theft and malicious damage.

The study of almost 1000 businesses showed that Nottingham was at the top of the business crime league.

Meanwhile, the average insurance settlement was 3700.

Neil Mercier, property insurance manager at Axa, said: "These results highlight how serious and prevalent the threat of criminal activity is for businesses.

"Employers must remain vigilant and take precautions to minimise the risks to their premises and employees."