Homeowners can deter would-be garden thieves by carrying out some simple DIY projects in their outdoor spaces.
According to a survey by insurance provider More Th>n, one third of all garden owners take no security measures whatsoever to protect items left outside.
While many hide furniture, barbecues and other expensive items out of sight in garden sheds, they often leave them unlocked.
With 28 per cent of garden owners having been a victim of theft in recent years, taking security measures to discourage criminals could have many benefits.
More Th>n pointed out that keeping hedges tidy and trim can act as a deterrent, as it reduces the number of places a thief can hide.
Installing outdoor lighting can also help by illuminating gardens at night, while adding fencing and gates can prevent criminals from accessing the back and sides of the property easily.
Other DIY projects that could discourage thieves include fitting sturdy locks to garden sheds and using gravel on driveways, as it is noisy to walk on and may put trespassers off.
Posted by Thomas Morris
