Homeowners Urged To Keep Sheds Secure

With Britain in the grip of warmer climes, it may advisable for homeowners to ensure that strains on their spending do not soar in line with the hotter temperatures.

In a report released by Confused, it was revealed that many consumers adopt a lax attitude towards making sure their garden is kept safe. The price comparison website reported a significant number of people either do not bother to lock their sheds or have minimal security measures in place. However, by doing this it was reported that Britons may find financial pressures begin to soar should they lack a sufficient level of insurance. Confused went on to assert that “it pays to [be] vigilant and to have significant cover”.

Although the contents of the typical shed stands at 800 pounds, a figure respectable in itself, it was indicated that victims of a break-in may be dealt an even bigger blow as the company showed that some gardening items cost over 5,000 pounds. However, it was reported that although many home insurance policies will provide cover against shed-break-ins, not all will offer protection on items worth more than 1,000 pounds.

Following on from being burgled those who lack a sufficient level of insurance or do not have cover at all may have to dip into their own pockets in order to replace stolen possessions. In turn, this could have an impact on their ability to manage other demands on their spending such as loan repayments, credit and store cards and household bills.

To bolster the security of a home from the threat of thieves, the price comparison site recommended homeowners never leave the door to a shed unlocked, as doing so may see an insurance policy become invalid. Meanwhile, fitting sensor-triggered floodlights and ensuring possessions such as power tools and mowers are stored away properly was also put forward. In addition, consumers were advised to consider installing a shed alarm, an item which - it was reported - can be bought “relatively cheaply”. Furthermore, it was reported that “tiny little padlocks, rusty hasps and tired old hinges offer little protection from thieves”.

For consumers looking for an effective way in which to finance such work, applying for a home improvement loan might be recommended.

Commenting on the report, Simon Lamble, product director of Confused, said: “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.”

Those wishing to improve the safety of their sheds, taking out a home improvement loan may assist with gathering the funds required to install locks and lights for such an outbuilding. However, obtaining a home loan for this purpose might also be recommended for consumers looking to conduct a variety of property renovations. In a recent study carried out by Halifax, it was revealed that just over a third (35 per cent) of Britons are looking to give their garden a makeover, while redecorating, a new bathroom suite and laminate flooring were also shown to be popular home improvement choices. The research also indicated that about a quarter of homeowners are doing up their property with the specific aim of increasing its value.

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