Homeowners are being urged to bolster shed security after Aviva revealed that the average insurance claim for theft from a shed or outbuilding soared to £4,567 last year. This marks a 9% increase on the previous year’s figure of £4,205, highlighting a worrying trend for garden crime.
Rising value of shed contents drives claims upward
According to Aviva’s data, the typical claim now exceeds £4,500, reflecting the significant value of items stored in sheds, garages and other outbuildings. Bicycles, power tools, lawnmowers and seasonal equipment can quickly add up, making these structures attractive targets for thieves.
Hannah Davidson, senior underwriting manager of home and lifestyle at Aviva, said: “Sheds can be seen as an extension of the home, and when you add up bikes, tools and equipment collected over time, the value of what’s stored inside can quickly mount up – exceeding £4,500, according to our data.”
More than half of sheds lack basic locks
Despite the high value of stored goods, Aviva found that over half of sheds or outbuildings do not have basic locks fitted. This leaves them vulnerable to opportunistic thieves who often target easy entry points.
Ms Davidson added: “It’s concerning that over half of sheds or outbuildings don’t have basic locks, particularly when the items they’re storing are likely to be easily portable and attractive to opportunist thieves.”
She also warned that stolen tools can be repurposed to break into the main property itself. “In some cases, stolen tools can even be used to break into the main property, so it’s also worth thinking carefully about what you store outside the home,” she said.
Practical steps to protect your outbuilding
Aviva has issued a series of recommendations to help homeowners reduce the risk of shed theft. These simple measures can make a significant difference in deterring criminals.
- Always lock sheds, garages and outbuildings, even when you are at home. Thieves can strike in a matter of seconds.
- Inspect padlocks regularly for rust or weakness. A flimsy lock is an invitation to break-ins.
- Keep keys out of sight and never leave them in obvious places like under a mat or plant pot.
- Cover windows from the inside to prevent anyone from seeing valuable items inside.
- Avoid storing valuable items in outbuildings if possible. If you must, consider additional security.
Securing lightweight sheds and adding lighting
Many garden sheds are made from lightweight materials, making them easier for thieves to force open. Aviva recommends ensuring such sheds are securely fixed to their foundation or base, which also helps protect against storm damage.
Installing security lights or motion-activated lights near outbuildings can act as a powerful deterrent. A sudden light often scares off would-be intruders before they attempt a break-in.
For those storing bicycles in garages or outbuildings, Aviva suggests fitting an anchor point so cycles can be chained to it. This provides an extra layer of security and makes it harder for thieves to walk away with expensive bikes.
Insurance considerations
Homeowners should also review their home insurance policies to ensure outbuildings and their contents are adequately covered. While shed theft claims have risen, many policies have limits on single items or may not cover certain types of equipment unless specified.
Aviva’s data underscores the importance of taking proactive steps to protect property. By securing sheds properly and being mindful of what is stored inside, homeowners can reduce both the risk of theft and the potential financial impact of a claim.
Community vigilance is key
Neighbourhood Watch and community groups can play a role in reducing shed crime by reporting suspicious activity and encouraging neighbours to secure their gardens. Simple conversations about security measures can help raise awareness and deter opportunists.
As the cost of shed theft continues to climb, taking time to improve security today could save thousands of pounds tomorrow. Aviva’s advice offers a clear checklist for anyone looking to protect their outdoor spaces.
