Average garden shed contains £988 worth of items

The average shed now holds £988 worth of contents - an increase of £100 from the 2009 figure, according to a survey by M&S Money.

The most expensive items that people keep in their sheds are lawnmowers (38%), bikes (28%) and DIY equipment/tools (22%).  However, the survey found that almost half of people questioned (49%) admitted they leave their shed unlocked at times. This figure has doubled in the past year, from just under a quarter (24%) in 2009.

Almost a fifth (18%) of respondents in this year's survey revealed they frequently leave their shed unlocked and, only 12% of respondents felt that their shed was very secure against burglary and would deter thieves.

M&S Money is urging householders to check that their home insurance policy covers items in their shed. M&S Home Insurance policy provides unlimited cover for theft of property from a shed. Policyholders must take reasonable steps to ensure they have secured their shed.

Andrew Ferguson, M&S Head of General Insurance, said: "The value of items kept in sheds can mount up, as our survey shows. We would urge householders to check whether their home insurance policy provides adequate cover for theft from a shed, and what security measures they may need to demonstrate to ensure any claims made are valid."

Tips from M&S Money to help secure garden sheds:

Fix a lock or padlock on the door of the shed
Fit locks to windows and ensure they are kept shut
When not in use ensure the shed is locked, especially at night
Lock belongings in the shed overnight after use (i.e. barbecues, bicycles etc) items left in the garden may not be covered for theft
Don't leave expensive items in direct view, where they can be seen by thieves. If possible, fit a blind over windows so that contents cannot be seen.

Marks & Spencer Home Insurance is available online at marksandspencer.com/homeinsurance.