Majority of Brits forget about their garden when insuring their home

MoneySuperMarket has revealed that a large majority of people never insure items stored outside and 16% have had items stolen from their garden or shed.

According to the data, despite the average British garden containing £1,270 worth of valuable items, two thirds of people surveyed have never had any outdoor items insured, potentially leaving £24.4 billion worth of goods at risk of theft over the summer months. The most common items that Brits keep in their gardens include furniture (49%), DIY tools (46%), bikes (30%) and BBQs (29%). Of the 16% that have been victims of garden theft, the most commonly stolen items are bikes (24%) and DIY tools (23%). A third (33%) of those who have had items stolen from outside didn’t have those items insured, leaving them at a loss. Despite their common nature and often high value, only 13% of Brits have ever insured their bike under their home insurance policy.

Top tips to keep gardens and sheds safe:

Lock valuables away – One of the first questions your insurance provider will ask in the event of a claim is if your valuables were locked away in a shed or outbuilding, and you’ll often be asked for proof of forced entry.

Defend your property – Fitting locks to gates and having lighting in your garden is a good way to put off any would-be-thieves. Planting shrubs and bushes along your borders can also deter unwanted visitors gaining access to your garden by climbing over walls.

Secure your bikes – Often the most valuable item stored outside will be a bike. Even if you put bikes inside your locked shed, lock the bikes themselves or chain them to an immovable object. Some policies stipulate that you do this.

Know your policy – Policies vary by provider and type, so it’s important you understand what you’re covered for personally. Items that are moveable, such as garden furniture or equipment, count as contents. Insurers often limit the amount you can claim for items in your garden, usually with a separate limit for those in an outbuilding or shed.