What’s kept in sheds can be costly to replace if it’s stolen. The value of items such as lawnmowers, garden furniture, tools, bikes and more can all add up to a large sum. On top of that, what’s taken might be in aid of accessing your home. The takeaway? Shed security is essential.
Some 16 per cent of shed owners have been burgled, according to research conducted by Compare the Market. However, home security systems often fail to extend to sheds with 24 per cent of those surveyed saying they weren’t taking additional security measures for the shed.
But these measures are essential to protect both what’s in the shed and also the contents of your home so we’ve put together a guide to the ways you can keep your belongings more secure.
Physical security measures for sheds
There are a number of ways you can secure a shed physically to keep its contents out of thieves’ hands.
Padlocks and hasps and staples for shed doors improve protection. Opt for padlocks tested to BSEN 12320 – such as the Yale Y300CB/63/127/1 Maximum Security 62mm Hardened Steel Padlock with Closed Shackle from Amazon – and with a three to four rating and look for Secured by Design accredited hasps and staples. West Yorkshire Police recommends using the combination a third of the way up from the bottom of the door and a third of the way down from the top of the door.
Reinforcement of doors and frames is worthwhile. “By reinforcing the door with a solid core you significantly reduce the risk of break-ins,” says garden shed expert Sam Jenkinson of Tiger. “Likewise, a reinforced frame adds strength to the area around the door, which is one of the most common points of attack. It prevents the structure from flexing or splitting when pressure is applied, making it much harder to pry the door open,” he explains.
Securing the shed to the ground can enhance security. “Bolting the shed base to concrete or using anchor kits on a patio or slab foundation creates a fixed structure that’s much harder to tamper with or move,” says Sam. “For timber bases, metal anchor brackets or ground spikes can be used to firmly secure the shed to the ground. You can also reinforce the floor to stop it from being pried up from underneath.”
Sam Jenkinson
Sam Jenkinson has been at garden building retailer Tiger for over five years and has built up a vast knowledge and experience in all areas. He is a keen gardener and self-proclaimed “shed head”.
Technology-based shed security
Using tech solutions, too, will create maximum protection for a shed.
Shed alarms are a starting point, says Anthony Neary, security expert at Safe.co.uk. “These are typically battery-powered, easy to install, and provide an immediate audible warning if someone attempts to break in,” he explains. Take a look at the Yale YSGA02-W Shed & Garage Alarm Kit from B&Q.
Security cameras “can offer real-time monitoring via your phone, especially if your shed is tucked away from view,” says Anthony. “Some models also feature night vision and two-way audio, which can be useful for scaring off intruders.” Check out the TP-Link Tapo Outdoor Smart Camera from Screwfix.
Motion sensor lighting complements other measures. “It helps illuminate any dark corners and alerts you to movement before someone even reaches the door,” Anthony explains.
Anthony Neary
Anthony Neary is the founder and security expert at home and business security retailers Safe.co.uk. With over 15 years of industry experience, he specialises in security solutions and how to keep properties safe.
(Image credit: John Keeble / Getty Images)
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Additional ways to boost security
There are a range of other measures you can take for better shed security.
Position the shed strategically
If you’re putting up a shed rather than optimising the security of one that’s already there, you can pick a location that makes it less vulnerable. “Ideally, your shed should be in a spot that’s visible from your home or neighbouring properties, as visibility alone can be a powerful deterrent,” says Sam Jenkinson.
“Avoid secluded corners or areas with overgrown hedging that can provide cover for possible intruders. Additionally, make sure fences, gates or walls around your garden don’t create easy climbing routes onto or into your shed.”
Keep the shed locked at all times
This might sound obvious, but it’s easy to leave a shed unsecured while you’re in the garden. To deter opportunists, keep it locked.
Don’t leave valuables in plain sight
Blackout window film (as noted above) will conceal the shed’s contents. Even an old sheet or blanket draped over your items will make them somewhat less obvious.
Secure items inside the shed
There are tactics that will make a shed’s contents safer. “Fix high-value items like bikes to the floor or wall using ground anchors or locking brackets,” says Anthony Neary. “For smaller items, consider adding some lockers inside your shed which will act as an extra obstacle for burglars to get through.”
Mark your possessions
Take photos of what’s inside the shed in case you do suffer a theft and mark items, too. You can use a UV pen to add your house number and postcode to your items, or pay a bit more and opt for a forensic marking system such as SmartWater or SelectaDNA.
Perform regular maintenance
Routine checks can go a long way to maintaining your shed’s security, according to Sam. “Regularly inspect locks, hinges, and hasps for signs of rust or wear, and replace anything that looks weak,” he says.
“Also, check your garden shed’s door alignment. If it starts to sag or warp, it can leave gaps that are easier to force. Examine windows for cracks or loose panes. And keep an eye out for rot or damage to timber panels; compromised sections can make for easy entry points.”
Check your home insurance
Take a look at your home insurance policy to make sure it covers non-connected buildings, as a shed may not be covered as standard and, if you do suffer a loss, replacing uninsured items could prove costly.
As with garage security, a combination of measures will create the best solution for a shed. “Layer your security with good locks, visible deterrents, and smart tech which all work best when used together,” says Anthony Neary.
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