Homeowners Advised To Protect Gardens
The summer months could leave homeowners more at risk from criminals, it has been claimed.
According to Halifax Home Insurance, claims for theft from gardens rose by some 52 per cent during the summer months of 2007 in comparison to winter. Meanwhile, the typical garden claim stands at 387 pounds. This figure represents a rise of 27 per cent from the average claim of 305 pounds recorded five years ago. In addition the study showed that Slough, Sheffield and Sunderland were the three worst-hit areas across the country for garden theft over the course of 2007. Guildford, Basingstoke and Maidstone were also revealed to be popular targets for thieves.
And with the clocks moving forward an hour last weekend, the financial services firm pointed out that people may be set to spend more time out in their gardens and enjoying their green spaces. However, they were advised to also make sure that they have an adequate home insurance policy to protect their plants, outdoor furniture and other items they have in their garden.
Following on from having a lack of insurance, those homeowners who find that their green space has been targeted by thieves could find themselves forced to pay money out of their own pockets to meet the cost of repairs. This could impact upon their ability to meet other demands on their finances such as loan and credit card repayments, utility bills and mortgage costs.
David Rochester, head of underwriting at Halifax Home Insurance, said: “It is important that people take measures to secure their property outside as well as indoors and remember that equipment and furniture outside the home can add up. Items thieves typically look for include patio furniture, bicycles, garden ornaments and barbecues, so it is important to keep these items secured or locked away when not in use and ensure your home insurance policy includes cover for garden theft.”
In an attempt to guard a property against the threat of thieves, Halifax advised homeowners to lay down gravel on gardens and driveways. By doing so, it was claimed prospective criminals may be put off from attempting to enter a home as the sound of footsteps can be clearly heard. Furthermore, planting prickly hedges and fitting spiked fences and high walls were put forward as methods of cutting off access for burglars. Placing bricks into the bottom of patio tubs and making sure sheds, garages and other outbuildings are securely locked was also recommended. In addition, joining a neighbourhood watch programme and marking valuable items with a postcode was stated as ways in which consumers could protect themselves against thieves.
Should consumers find that their garden has been vandalized, getting a homeowner loan could be a useful way to finance getting such a space back in its proper condition. A home loan could also be a helpful way to fund fitting security measures such as lights, fencing and gravel. Furthermore, the additional financial assistance a loan provides could help borrowers to take out a comprehensive home insurance policy. Applying for a homeowner loan could also be of help to those looking to carry out property renovations. A recent Halifax study showed that although significant numbers of men were likely to attempt some form of home improvement during the Easter weekend, many feel pressured into having to do so. The firm advised those considering doing major work on their own to hire qualified tradesmen instead.
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