Homeowners warned to protect garden sheds

With domestic robberies increasing by 3% since 2006, and July being named as having the greatest number of outbuilding burglaries, Confused.com – UK insurance price comparison site - warns homeowners to protect their garden sheds from thieves.

Many people do not bother to lock their sheds at all, or have minimal security measures. Keeping in mind that the average garden equipment costs in the region of £800, it pays to vigilant, and to have significant cover.

In many cases, home insurance will protect against shed break-ins but many homeowners would be surprised to know that not all policies will cover more than £1,000. With some lawnmowers priced at more than £5,000, it is important to check your policy.

Other small security measures can help protect homes from theft:

Tiny little padlocks, rusty hasps and tired old hinges offer little protection from thieves and provide a real opportunity to the passing criminal.

Remember that garden tools, such as spades and ladders can also be used to gain access to homes, so be extra careful when storing these items away.

Try to ensure that valuable items such as mowers and power tools are property marked and stored out of sight.

Never leave a garden shed unlocked, as this could invalidate insurance.

Consider a shed alarm, which can be purchased relatively cheaply.

Consider having floodlights on sensor, illuminating that part of the garden.

Make sure the shed is actually anchored to the ground, as it has been known for a shed to be physically moved to gain access to the equipment inside.

Simon Lamble, product director, Confused.com says: "During the summer months, shed burglaries increase significantly, due to homeowners spending more time in their garden and not securing their sheds properly. It is imperative that, when taking out home insurance policies, homeowners consider the contents of their sheds, garages and any other outbuildings, and insure them accordingly."