Is your garden a prime target for thieves?

From bikes and barbecues to prized plants, gardens are a growing target for thieves. Here’s how to protect yours, and check your insurance is up to scratch.

As the days get longer and the weather warms up, many of us spend more time outdoors. Summer is when gardens really come into their own, whether you’re firing up the BBQ, pottering with plants, or investing in new furniture, tools or outdoor equipment to make the most of your space.

Unfortunately, it’s also a time when burglaries and thefts from gardens increase. With more valuable items left outside and properties often left unattended while people enjoy holidays or long evenings out, gardens can become an easy target for opportunistic thieves.

From bikes and tools to furniture and even plants, garden theft is more common than many homeowners realise. Which raises an important question: if something is stolen from your garden, would your insurance actually cover it?

Why do thieves target your garden?

Private gardens with low levels of security are particularly vulnerable. Thieves are often able to spot valuable items at a glance, left outdoors or stored in sheds, which they know can be quickly taken and resold.

High‑value items are often left outside. Some of the most commonly targeted items include:

• Bicycles, sports equipment and children’s toys
• E‑bikes and electric scooters
• Garden tools and equipment
• BBQs and outdoor heaters
• Garden furniture

The value of tools and equipment kept in sheds and outbuildings can be surprisingly high, especially when accumulated over time. One simple but effective step is to mark your property with your postcode and house number. Engraving is usually the most suitable method and can act as a strong deterrent.

Even your plants could be at risk. It might sound unusual, but it’s a growing problem. Environmental and wildlife crime is often overlooked, which is precisely why it’s becoming more common.

A 2025 survey found that around 67% of gardeners have been victims of plant theft, with 46% saying the issue is getting worse in their neighbourhood. High‑value plants such as Japanese maples, peonies and lemon trees are particularly prized by thieves due to their cost and slow growth.

And these kinds of thefts from outside the home, including garden furniture, tools, bicycles, barbecues, plants and ornaments, tend to surge during the warmer summer months, when items are more likely to be left on display.

Security tips for your garden

The good news is there are plenty of practical steps you can take to reduce the risk of garden theft.

Secure your boundaries:

Tall, sturdy fences and prickly hedges can make access more difficult. Adding trellis to the top of fencing provides an extra layer of security. Always lock gates when not in use, particularly those that allow access to the rear of your property.

Install outdoor security lighting:

Ideally a motion-detector system. Make sure lights are positioned thoughtfully, so they don’t disturb neighbours or distract road users.

Don’t make life easy for burglars:

Avoid leaving gardening tools lying around, as these can be used to force entry into your home.

Store expensive items securely:

High‑value belongings should be kept in structurally sound sheds or outbuildings. Keep prized plants and garden ornaments in the back garden, away from prying eyes. Using soil‑based potting mix rather than compost can also help – it makes pots much heavier and harder to steal.

Consider CCTV:

Even a smart doorbell camera can act as a visible deterrent and provide peace of mind.

Does home insurance cover your garden?

Despite being a nation of plant lovers, 56% of people surveyed admit they don’t have home insurance that covers their garden.

When it comes to home and contents insurance, gardens are often overlooked. Yet they’re frequently filled with costly items such as lawnmowers, tools, BBQs and outbuildings.

These items aren’t always included as standard. Many policies have a maximum payout limit for theft or damage from sheds and outbuildings, and some high‑value items may need to be specified separately. Cover can vary depending on both the policy and the total value of what you own.

The key takeaway is never assume your garden is covered. Always check the small print, and if you’re unsure, speaking to an insurance broker can help you understand exactly where you stand.

Howden is here to help!

At Howden, we take pride in giving our clients the confidence that comes from knowing they’re getting exactly what they need, and nothing they don’t.

For your peace of mind, it’s always a good idea to speak to a broker first – whether in person or over the phone. One of the many benefits of choosing a broker like Howden is having dependable support on hand if you ever need to make a claim.

Would you like us to take a look at your home insurance? Feel free to drop by your local branch or give us a ring. We’d be happy to help make sure your home is properly protected. Find your nearest branch and speak with your local Howden team.

Sources: The Independent, Daily Express, Allianz, RHS