Fairlands Crime Rate

Fairlands stands out as one of the safest areas in Guildford, with a crime rate of 46.4 per 1,000 — 49% below the UK average. Despite this, shoplifting and burglary have surged by 100% YoY, highlighting the need for targeted prevention. The area's safety score of 89/100, 10 points above the UK average, reflects strong community cohesion and effective policing, though rising retail-related crimes demand attention.

Fairlands is a commuter-focused suburb within Guildford, characterised by a mix of residential properties and limited commercial activity. Its low population density and proximity to central Guildford likely contribute to its below-average crime rates. However, the area's retail presence may explain the sharp rise in shoplifting, while its suburban layout could make homes more visible to opportunistic burglars. The area's safety score of 89/100 reflects effective local governance and community cohesion.

The most surprising finding is the 100% YoY increase in shoplifting and burglary, despite both remaining well below UK averages. Shoplifting's rise may be linked to Fairlands's retail activity, though its rate (1.4 per 1,000) remains 82% lower than the UK average. Burglary's doubling is concerning but still 59% below the national rate. Anti-social behaviour and public order crimes are significantly suppressed, likely due to the area's family-oriented character and limited nightlife. Property crime overall is 59.9% below the UK average, reflecting effective community policing and low-density housing reducing opportunities for theft.

Fairlands's overall crime rate has decreased by 13.8% YoY, with property crime down 80% and vehicle crime falling sharply. However, shoplifting and burglary have both increased by 100%, despite remaining 82% and 59% below the UK average. The monthly trend shows a peak in November 2025 (5.4 per 1,000/month), likely linked to holiday shopping season. The sharp rise in shoplifting may reflect increased retail activity or targeted theft, while the decline in vehicle crime could indicate improved parking security or fewer vehicles on the road.

How To Keep Safe in Fairlands

Given the 100% YoY rise in shoplifting, secure high-value items in retail spaces and avoid leaving packages unattended. For burglary, even though rates are low, ensure doors and windows are locked, especially at night when 22% of incidents occur. Vehicle crime, though rare, peaks overnight — park in well-lit areas and use immobilisers. Public order issues are most common in the evening, so avoid isolated areas after dark and report suspicious behaviour through local Neighbourhood Watch channels.

Crime in Fairlands follows distinct patterns tied to daily rhythms. Burglary peaks at night (12am-6am), likely due to isolated homes and reduced surveillance. Theft occurs most frequently in the afternoon (12pm-6pm), aligning with retail hours and pedestrian activity. Public order issues rise in the evening (6pm-12am), possibly reflecting social gatherings. Vehicle crime is rare but concentrated overnight, suggesting limited parking infrastructure or security measures. The area's low population density means crimes are more spread out, but targeted incidents like burglary remain more detectable in a closely-knit community.

Compared to nearby areas, Fairlands has a 40% higher crime rate than Normandy (33.2 per 1,000) but a 4% lower rate than Jacobs Well (44.6 per 1,000). Wood Street Village, with a crime rate of 134.6 per 1,000, has 190% higher crime than Fairlands. These differences likely stem from Normandy's rural character, Jacobs Well's similar suburban layout, and Wood Street Village's higher commercial activity.

In Fairlands, where crime rates are 49% below the UK average, proactive measures like scOS can enhance existing safety. Its AI-powered system detects threats at property perimeters, distinguishing between regular visitors and potential intruders. For shoplifting, which has risen 100% YoY, scOS's vehicle plate verification and perimeter monitoring could deter opportunists. Though burglary is rare (1.4 per 1,000), scOS's real-time alerts provide an extra layer of security without compromising the area's low-crime environment.