Gardens can be used to protect properties

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Property owners including landlords should ensure that their gardens are secure to add extra protection to their buildings, it has been advised.

Official police figures suggest that more than half of all break-ins occur from the back of the house, but Tesco Home Insurance has urged landlords and homeowners to use fences, hedges and lighting in the garden to reduce the risk.

According to the insurance provider, gravel paths which make noise under foot and gates with multiple bolts can also add further protection to properties, by dissuading thieves.

Allan Burns, head of Tesco Home Insurance, said: "Now is a good time to raise awareness of how to improve home security by using the environment outside your home. Many burglaries are carried out by opportunists, so by making it difficult, you can reduce your chances of them even trying."

According to Neighbourhoodwatch.net, it is a good idea for landlords to get to know the owners of the properties next to theirs, as areas with active Neighbourhood Watch groups tend to have lower levels of crime.
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