| Maintenance is very important in terms of security. Damaged locks & chains are things opportunist thieves look out for |
According to recent research by The Crime Prevention Website, one in three households have a shed that is easy to break into, providing a prime target for thieves looking for a high value opportunity, or even tools to gain access your home.
Dr Steffan George, Development Director of the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) – the leading trade association for the locksmithing profession highlights common security flaws and tells us how to avoid them.
Securing the door and windows
The first place to start is with the door. Attach mortice security bolts to the top and bottom, ensuring they are well fitted so that they cannot be ripped away from the timber. If your shed door (or frame) is too small and thin for a mortice lock, invest in a good hasp, staple and padlock.
Ensure windows are fitted with working locks. Extra security measures include grilles and welded mesh sheeting which can be fitted on the inside, and netting or reflective sheeting can be used to stop a potential thief from seeing objects inside.
Protecting the outside of the shed
Additional security can be added inside the shed too. You can get steel containers which fix securely to the floor, or ground anchors and padlocks. Security products independently tested for outbuildings can be found and a MLA approved locksmith can help advise what grade of security you need.
Maintenance is often forgotten but very important in terms of security. Damaged locks, chains and hasps and staples or windows are things opportunist thieves look out for, so perform regular and thorough maintenance checks on all areas of outbuildings.
Additional home security
If your outbuilding is attached to your home, it’s vital that you check any linking doors for damage too. If you do notice any wear and tear on locks or fittings, get in touch with a professional to help you replace or fix them using the correct products.
In addition to window and door security, consider installing alarms, outdoor security lighting and CCTV systems, all of which will alert you to intrusion immediately and work as deterrents.
The MLA advises that you get in touch with your local MLA approved locksmith who will be able to perform a complete security assessment of your home and any outbuildings, advising you on a full range of security measures that not only offer you peace of mind within your home, but will be in line with your home insurance requirements.