Burgled on the Costa del Sol? What to Do Step by Step

Coming home to a break-in is upsetting, and it's easy to make things worse in the first few minutes. If you've been burgled in Fuengirola, Mijas or anywhere on the Costa del Sol, here is a calm, practical checklist — in the right order.

1. Don't go in — and don't touch anything

If you arrive and suspect someone may still be inside, stay out and call the police first. Once it's safe, avoid touching surfaces, doors or windows. You could disturb evidence, and your insurer will expect the scene to be left for the police.

2. Call the police and get a report (denuncia)

In Spain, dial 112 (or the Policía Nacional on 091). You must file a formal report — the denuncia. This document is essential:

• Your insurance company will not pay a claim without it.
• It creates an official record of what was taken.
• You can often start it by phone or online and confirm at the station.

3. Document everything for insurance

Before you tidy up, take photos of the damage and the point of entry. Make a list of what's missing, with rough values and any serial numbers or receipts you have. Send this to your insurer promptly and keep a copy of the denuncia number.

4. Secure the property the same day

This is where I come in. After a break-in, the entry point is usually damaged and the locks can't be trusted — thieves sometimes keep or copy keys they find. On the same visit I can:

• Repair or replace forced doors and broken locks.
• Change the cylinders so any keys taken are useless.
• Board up or make safe a damaged door until a full repair.

5. Reduce the risk of it happening again

• Upgrade to an anti-bumping, anti-snap cylinder and a security shield.
• Add a second lock or a security bolt on exposed doors.
• Consider a wireless alarm with intrusion, fire and flood detection.

Need your home made secure now?

I'm Santiago, an APFC-certified locksmith in Fuengirola and Mijas. After a break-in I come out fast, change your locks and make the property safe again the same day, with a fixed price agreed before I start. Call me or message on WhatsApp — I'll head over straight away.