Theft of property from gardens can be a problem but having spent time and money on your garden you also need to consider its security. The value of equipment, structures and plants in gardens often amounts to thousands of pounds. Most household insurance policies only offer limited cover for garden-related items. However, there are several things that can be done to improve security in the garden and your shed – most of which are relatively inexpensive to secure your home garden.  Here are a few tips and ideas;

Boundaries and access

The first line of defence against theft is to make sure property boundaries are secure, particularly to the rear, where people are often less watchful.

Drives and pathways

Gravel drives and paths make it very difficult for an intruder to approach a property quietly.

Lighting

At the front of your property, install security lighting operated by a daylight sensor. At the rear of your property, because it is more secure and private, Secured by Design encourages, wherever possible, the use of the most environmentally friendly light sources. Try to position lighting so that it is not a nuisance to neighbours or a distraction to road users.

Mark your property

Garden tools and other power tools such as lawn mowers and strimmers are often recovered by the police but it is difficult to trace the original owner. Security marking your tools using an SBD recognised forensic asset marking or etching kit is another highly effective and visible deterrent to thieves and an established method of reducing theft. Property marking also helps identify the owner, gaining evidence to assist in a prosecution. Tools and other property can be registered on SBD approved Tools and Asset databases. These systems can assist the Police to trace stolen property and importantly prove it was stolen with the aim of getting the item returned to its owner.

Tools & Ladders

Don’t make a burglar’s job easier by leaving gardening tools lying around as these are often used to force entry into the home – a garden spade can do a lot of damage to a door or window in a short space of time. Remember most burglaries are committed at the rear of the home. Don’t leave ladders outside or, if you have no alternative and have to, chain them up.

CCTV and WIFI Doorbells

These can be linked to your phone and tablet to alert you to incidents in real time.

 The installation of closed-circuit television (CCTV) which can be linked to your television, phone or video to view your garden  which allows you to monitor your home and property.