Parcel and post theft is on the rise across E20. This guide breaks down how to prevent it, how to respond quickly if it happens, and how to support your neighbours.

Why this matters in East Village

Shared lobbies and mail rooms make it easy for thieves to tailgate or slip in unnoticed. Couriers are under pressure and often leave parcels in exposed areas if access is difficult. Most theft happens in early evenings and at weekends when delivery traffic peaks.

Before delivery: reduce the risk

Choose secure delivery methods

• Click & Collect is the safest option — InPost lockers are available at Westfield and the Lighthouse, and most shops offer collection services.
• Some East Village buildings have Renz Parcel Lockers, which are secure and easy to use, especially with the app.

Use clear delivery notes

• Drivers move fast, but delivery notes still help. Instructions like “do not leave in lobby/at door” or “call on arrival” often prevent parcels being dumped in public spaces.

Plan your deliveries

• Schedule deliveries for times you’ll be home where possible.
• Track orders in courier apps and turn on notifications.
• Avoid designating “safe places” that are visible to passers-by (doorways, lobbies, bike stores).

Collect parcels promptly

• Reducing how long a parcel is left unattended is one of the simplest ways to cut risk.

Building maintenance

• Report broken doors, locks, or intercoms to your landlord immediately.
• Ask for regular audits of CCTV covering entrances, lobbies, and mail rooms.
• Flag faulty lighting in hallways and communal areas.

Anti-tailgating

• Don’t hold doors for unknown individuals. Genuine neighbours will understand.
• If you keep a building WhatsApp group, use it for heads-up alerts - but avoid sharing flat numbers.

If your parcel is stolen

Act quickly

• Record the time, location, courier, and tracking number.
• Ask building management to check relevant CCTV footage and save the video and timestamp. They won’t release the video to you due to GDPR reasons, but the Police will need it.

Report it properly

• Courier: Log a “missing” or “stolen” report through the app or website and keep all tracking evidence.
• Police: File an online report with the Met; include CCTV timestamps where possible.
• Building management: Share the details so access controls or patrols can be adjusted.

Refunds and claims

• Retailer: Most offer refunds or replacements for non-receipt once you provide the courier case number.
• Payment method: Check whether your bank or card provider includes purchase protection.

Extra ways to protect your deliveries

Neighbour support

• Ask a trusted neighbour to receive parcels when you’re away.
• Consider a building “Parcel Buddy” list - share typical delivery times and contact details privately.

Community alerts

• Share general incident details (time and location) but never flat numbers.
• Avoid posting label photographs online; if you do, blur names and addresses.