Allotment theft

Security on allotments has long been a problematic issue, and petty theft and shed break-ins are a fact of life for many allotment growers.

Tips to consider

Sheds

• Sheds should be kept in a good condition and be located in a visible position.
• Use high quality locks, doors and hinges and ideally block off all windows.
• Use tamper proof screws or drill out screw heads.
• Visibly mark property and record the serial numbers for free on immobilise.com, the police’s national property register, to aid recovery of any stolen items.

Perimeter

• Regularly check all fencing to make sure it’s in good condition. Ideally your fence should be 2m high and form a solid barrier with no gaps.
• Gates should always be securely locked, and should be of a design that makes climbing difficult.
• Check there are no bins, composters, trees or bushes that can be used for climbing over the fence, and consider planting thorny bushes inside the fence to deter entry.

Lighting

A well-lit allotment is much less attractive to thieves, especially if it is overlooked by footpaths or buildings.

Alarms

If you have an alarm, make sure there is a procedure in place to respond quickly, both to interrupt any crime and to avoid unnecessarily disturbing any local residents.

Signs

Install clearly visible, weatherproof signs alerting passers-by to the opening hours, rules, contact details, all property on site is security marked, any CCTV cameras and how to report a crime.

If you do not use any equipment or tools on a regular basis – take them home.