Gardens Security & Outbuildings
Garden Security
Check out the gardens of the property. Check the state of the fences and how easy it would be to get into the back garden of the property. Is there easy access from fields, parks, footpaths? Is there overgrown bushes that could provide a hiding place for an intruder?
Actions:
- Repair or replace broken or rotten fences
- Plant prickly hedges as a secondary barrier
- Cut down or trim unruly shrubs and bushes to remove hiding places that a criminal could use
- Trim back any overhanging trees that could help criminal to climb over the fence
- Lock away any ladders etc. that a criminal could use to enter your property
- Consider installing sensor-operated floodlights
- Do not leave possessions , e.g. bikes or toys , lying around in the garden. Not only do they risk being stolen, but they are likely to attract criminals who may then be tempted to burgle the house itself.
- If possible store your patio furniture in a locked shed.
- If you are hiring a landscape gardener to give your garden a makeover ask him to take security concerns into accouint when he draws up his garden design.
Outbuildings Security
For a complete household security survey you should also survey any outbuildings you may have, including garages, garden sheds and greenhouses.
Garages
walk around the garage and assess its vulnerability. Can you see inside through the window? Are there tempting items inside? If so, cover the window to prevent the intruder looking in. The weak point is likely to be the doors. Check that these are sturdy. A flimsy wooden side door that could easily be broken should be replaced or reinforced. An up and over door with a three-point locking system is likely to be secure.
Check the contents of the garage. Make sure you have a record of the make, model and serial numbers of any valuable tools that are stored there.
Sheds
Check the construction and sturdiness of any sheds in the garden. Do you store valuable items in the shed? If so garden shed security is especially important.
Greenhouses
Greenhouses may also contained valuable tools and equipment.
Actions:
- Check the strength of construction of all outbuildings and make sure they are in good repair
- Make sure all outbuildings are always locked with strong and effective locks
- Keep a note of the contents of each outbuilding, the value and details of all items stored
- Photographs of items are useful if property is stolen
- Mark all your valuables with your postcode and house number
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