Average garden contents valued at over £1500

With temperatures soaring, the Met Office forecasting a "barbecue summer" and sales at garden centres up by 20% so far this year, it appears that we are set to spend this summer enjoying time in our gardens. However, this could mean that some garden items, to the value of around £1,500, could be at risk of possible theft.

It is surprising how the value of the various items we have in our gardens can add up, and that’s not including the cost of the plants, shrubs and trees which we are also likely to have purchased.

Legal & General has calculated that the value could easily be over £1500 and closer to £2000 if children’s toys are also included.

A typical household insurance policy will provide cover of up to £1000 for contents that have been left in the garden. Contents stored in an outbuilding such as a shed, are normally covered up to a limit based on the sum insured under the contents policy.
Legal & General has developed an online calculator in the form of a 3D virtual home which enables customers to ‘tot up’ the value of their possessions, room by room and it also includes the garden. This service may help customers to place a more accurate valuation on the items that they have in their gardens and to check that they do have adequate level of household insurance cover in place. The calculator is available at legalandgeneral.com/contentscalculator

Garry Skelton, Marketing Director for Legal & General's general insurance business, said: “It is easy to forget the items we have in our gardens or outbuildings and just how their value may really add up. Doing a quick check online, using our calculator, could provide peace of mind that adequate cover is in place. We also recommend that people just remind themselves of some of the common sense steps you can take to ensure your property is secure and so reduce the risk of theft.”

Security steps for the garden

Put any items used in the garden away when you’re not outside if possible.

Don’t leave any valuables clearly in view in the garden.

Ensure downstairs doors and windows are locked if you are likely to be upstairs for some time.

Consider locking doors and windows when you are outside, even if it’s only for a few minutes, particularly if they are not visible when you are in the garden – and especially if there is a risk you may fall asleep.

Prune shrubs and hedges to reduce the places where burglars may hide.

Don’t let strangers into your home or garden without proof of identity.

Check locks on entrances to gardens or sheds are well maintained.

Check any fencing or walls surrounding the garden are in good condition with no loose panels or gaps.

Consider installing security lighting in the garden and check it is in working order.

If you are going away and need to leave property ‘on show’ such as a patio table and chairs, then arrange for someone to make regular checks that it is safe and secure and not likely to blow away and cause any damage.

Further details of the cover available from Legal & General is online at legalandgeneral.com/home-insurance