When the warm weather returns, more often than not your attention will be focused on the use of your garden, especially when summer approaches. Most will appear a little unkempt after the winter season, but once the first cut is complete and the plants and shrubs are tidied up, your garden can once again be considered a part of your home where you can sit, relax and enjoy the pleasant weather.

It is a sad fact of life but as you continue to spend time and money on making your garden an attractive space, it can unfortunately become a greater target for theft and vandalism. It is therefore important that you take the right steps to protect your garden, and ensure your insurance is sufficient to cover both your home and garden contents.

Securing your garden needn’t be a chore, nor should it detract from the overall look and feel of your garden. There are plenty of measures you can employ to deter unwelcome visitors to your garden – and similarly these measures can be utilised in such a way as to enhance your garden. For example, shrubs and bushes can provide the perfect foil for thieves and vandals; therefore, cutting them back to a manageable size is important.

Lighting is another great way to improve the security of your garden whilst discouraging thieves at the same time. With an array of lighting options available on the market, it is possible to choose lighting that not only enhances the garden at night, but also offers an effective deterrent. Similarly, choosing the right materials throughout your garden can be important. For example, placing gravel on your driveway can improve its overall appearance, whilst providing a very effective way of hearing any possible intruders.

Other simple measures to take include making sure any valuable items – such as garden tools or furniture – are locked away at night, or when the garden is not in use. This will increase your chance of a successful claim against theft, as most insurance policies will stipulate that your garden contents should be secure at all times.

Ensuring you have the right insurance policy is of course important, regardless of what security measures you employ throughout your garden. Indeed, many contents insurance policies will include cover for your garden.

Your garden can be a great place to spend some time in over the summer months. By employing a few simple security measures you can ensure that you will continue to enjoy your garden and its contents for many years to come.