We’d never have thought that home is a place of danger but unexpected events such as a pest infestation or home fires have happened before, and it can happen to anyone. Unsure about the potential risks or safety problems at home? Let’s work it out together with the above image and learn how we can stay safer at home. Remember, it is better to be safe than sorry!
1. Locked out
Being locked out of your home is a common issue, but the consequences can range from mildly annoying to potentially life-threatening. For instance, a broken key stuck in your door lock could delay you from reaching an elderly parent in need. To avoid such emergencies, prioritise regular door lock maintenance. Schedule annual lubrication, handle your door with care, and consider consulting a professional locksmith when needed.
In Singapore, the average cost for locksmith services ranges from S$50 to S$100 for repairing or changing a lock, and up to S$150 for replacing a doorknob. Comprehensive home contents insurance, such as Tiq Home Insurance, often include emergency home assistance that covers locksmith services, saving you extra expenses during critical times.
2. Burglary!
In 2023, Singapore recorded 191 cases of housebreaking and related crimes1—up from 163 cases in 2022.
If your house gets broken into, the damages can be substantial – be it physically, financially or psychologically. Vigilance is key, so don’t take security for granted! Lock the doors when you are sleeping or outdoors, and be mindful of strangers who loiter around.
For residents who are staying in a HDB unit, you are likely to be covered under the Basic Fire Insurance plan. It would do good to check if losses arising out of theft and burglary are covered. If not, a comprehensive home contents insurance usually covers this. For example, Tiq Home Insurance by Etiqa covers 30% of the content sum insured for valuables and up to S$750 for loss of money in the event of an insured event such as a burglary. Learn more here.
3. E-Commerce scams and cyber crimes
Some kettles may shriek when the water starts to boil, indicating that it is time to turn off the stove and remind one of the potential risks of getting scalded. Yet, there are certain risks and damages that go undetected until it is too late.
In 2024, e-commerce scam cases in Singapore rose to 11,665 (22.7% of all reported scams) and up from 9,783 cases in 2023. Losses increased to at least S$17.5 million compared with S$13.9 million the previous year2.
The idea of losing tens of thousands of dollars just by “shopping online” or “logging in to your Internet banking account” can be unconceivable but phishing websites and online scammers are present, and increasing. Thought you’re safe at home with physical walls around you? Think again.
As long as you are connected to the Internet, there are certain cyber risks so it is important to practise caution. Here’s what you can do: read up on cyber security in simple terms and how you can stay safe from online scams for a start.
For added protection, Tiq Home Insurance also offers an optional add-on for Personal Cyber Protection for you and your household at a discounted rate.
4. Water damage
Water damages can easily occur, commonly originating from washing machine overflow, a dishwasher leakage, broken/leaking pipes, flood waters or clogged toilets. While this may not be a life-threatening issue, it is a hazard that can be dangerous, costly and frustrating.
Water mishaps at home happen more often than you’d think—and the clean-up is no picnic. From sudden leaks to full-blown water disruptions, dealing with soggy floors and dripping ceilings can throw your whole routine off balance.
Recently in Parliament, Senior Minister of State Sim Ann revealed that last year HDB helped town councils and flat owners with 859 complex water-seepage cases, from cracks in external walls to leaks from upstairs neighbours. Ensuring your home is protected isn’t just a “nice-to-have”, it can save you a world of stress (and soggy socks!).
Comprehensive home contents insurance covers damages to your renovation and furniture in insured events such as leaking pipes. For Tiq Home Insurance, we take it a step further by providing Emergency Home Assistance (EHA) – a 24-hour one-stop home repair service (including plumbing!) that covers up to S$200 per event and up to 4 events per year. We help you to arrange the home repair service and we pay for it!
5. Fire accidents
In 2024, the Singapore Civil Defence Force responded to 968 residential fires, nearly the same as the 970 recorded in 2023. Unattended cooking remained the top cause at 335 cases. This January, an overheated stove sparked a fire in a Punggol HDB flat, sending two people to the hospital and prompting the evacuation of about 60 neighbours. A little extra attention in the kitchen goes a long way.
For those of you who are looking to protect your brand-new shiny home appliances, check out the optional add-on benefit here.
6. Blackout!
With remote working being the new normal since 2020, some of us are still working from home. Imagine a blackout while you were typing zealously and you did not save your document… or if you were in the midst of showering when the water heater no longer works because of a short circuit.
Well, if you need an electrician, this is covered under Tiq Home Insurance’s EHA (mentioned above).
While we are on the subject of home electricity, note that damaged electric wiring and sockets (commonly in old homes) can cause fires too. Regular checks are recommended.
7. Pest Infestation
Pest infestation can happen, even if you keep your home clean and tidy. Think it won’t happen to you? You need to read this.
8. Broken glass
Did you know that tempered glass has a risk of spontaneous shattering, which is caused by the expansion of nickel sulphide crystals in the glass over time? Over the years, there have been reports on shattered glass at home and some of them have caused injuries. Many people are unaware that most comprehensive home contents insurance (Tiq Home Insurance included!) cover accidental breakage of mirrors and fixed glass.
9. Building structure, fixture and fittings
We are no stranger to Singapore’s unpredictable weather but in recent years, heavy downpour and strong winds have caused trees to topple, damaging cars and housing board blocks!
It is not uncommon for residents to face mishaps like broken windows, collapsing kitchen cabinets or doors blocked by fallen tree branches. Because these accidents are unpredictable, having home contents insurance can be a real lifesaver when it’s time to repair or replace what’s been damaged.
There’s just no place like home
Regardless for fun or work, at the end of a long day, most of us look forward to relaxing at home. While you are resting in the comfort of your home this evening, do think about these safety risks and practise greater vigilance to protect your home and all that you love.
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Information is accurate as at 18 January 2021. This policy is underwritten by Etiqa Insurance Pte. Ltd. (Company Reg. No. 201331905K). Protected up to specified limits by SDIC.
This article was updated on 29 April 2025.
1Based on SPF Annual Reports, S’pore National Statistical Office.
2Annual Scams and Cybercrime Brief 2024
Tiq by Etiqa Insurance Pte. Ltd.
A digital insurance channel that embraces changes to provide simple and convenient protection, Tiq’s mission is to make insurance transparent and accessible, inspiring you today to be prepared for life’s surprises and inevitabilities, while empowering you to “Live Unlimited” and take control of your tomorrow.
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