30/05/2024
Summer is almost here! Time to dust off the patio furniture and get your garden ready for fun. But before you do that, let’s talk about security. Protecting your garden isn’t just about keeping your bike and BBQ safe; it’s also about deterring burglars from using your garden as an entry point to your home. In this blog, we’ll discuss the key things to pay attention to, to ensure you’re keeping your outdoor space as protected as possible – including the importance of home and contents insurance.
Hedges and Fences
Did you know that overgrown hedges can actually make your home more vulnerable, with 2/3 of households are putting their homes at increased risk of burglary through high front hedges?[1] Aim for low hedges and fences (under a meter) ay the front of your house to allow neighbours and passers-by to see if anything suspicious is happening.[2] Having high back and rear boundaries (over 1.8 meters) with prickly plants at the base creates a barrier that deters climbing.[3]
Keep It Locked
Sheds and garages often hold expensive possessions – with the top five most common items stolen from sheds being bikes, mowers, sports equipment, power tools and garden tools.[4] Make sure they’re secured with strong locks and consider adding a second padlock for extra security. Likewise, make sure any tools are locked up – by not doings so, you’re giving an intruder the opportunity to not only steal your tools, but also to commit a crime. A good tip here is to think like a thief, and consider all the ways that someone could break in. Most insurers only cover items when they’re locked away, so it’s important to get to know the ins and outs of your insurance policy.
Security Lights, Alarms and CCTV
Did you know that one in four garage owners in the UK have been burgled, along with 16% of shed owners?[5] Security lights, alarms and CCTV systems are powerful deterrents. The sudden burst of light from motion-activated sensors can startle intruders and make them think twice, whilst cameras capture footage that can help identify criminals in case of a break-in. Try positioning lights and cameras strategically to illuminate pathways and outbuildings - this means intruders can’t approach without being seen and allows you to see what’s happening in your garden at night, even when you’re indoors.
Make Sure Your Garden is Covered
The cost of garden furniture, tools and plants can add up to thousands, so it’s important to make sure your home insurance covers your garden belongings. Use a content calculator (like this one from LV=) to estimate the value of your garden items, and to ensure your policy provides enough coverage.
Whilst cover for your garden is often included as part of your home or contents insurance policy, basic policies might not include garden cover, so check your policy details or contact your trusted Owl Financial Protection Adviser. They’ll help you review your policy and ensure everything is up to date in line with your current needs.
To Sum Up
Investing in some basic security measures now is an investment in a worry-free summer. These simple steps will ensure your garden becomes a safe haven for relaxation, fun, and creating lasting memories with loved ones.
At Owl Financial, we understand the importance of protecting what matters most. If you have any questions about your current home insurance coverage or want to ensure your garden belongings are properly insured, we're here to help. Contact us today.
Approved by Openwork Limited on 30/05/24
[1]https://www.johnlewisfinance.com/insurance/home-insurance/secure-garden.html#:~:text=Hedges%20and%20walls%20at%20the,be%20locked%20at%20all%20times
[2] https://www.met.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention/protect-home-crime/protecting-garden-to-safeguard-your-home/
[3] https://www.met.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention/protect-home-crime/protecting-garden-to-safeguard-your-home/
[4] https://www.met.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention/protect-home-crime/secure-shed-garage/#:~:text=It's%20worth%20having%20a%20good,it%20locked%20at%20all%20times
[5] https://www.comparethemarket.com/home-insurance/content/garage-and-shed-burglaries/
