Shed security isn’t something many consider when they’re thinking about home security, and yet protecting your shed can be just as important. Most homeowners’ sheds contain valuable and expensive items, including everything from standard power and gardening tools, work and farming equipment or bikes and cars. If you're using it as a carport, a burglary can be as devastating as a home burglary.

Securing your shed is critical for Panama City residents. We are subject to severe weather events that might impact the ability of law enforcement to respond. Looters can take advantage of the chaotic aftermath to burglarize homes and especially unsecured sheds, which tend to be near the outskirts of the property and are typically forgotten amidst more pressing concerns. Installing alarm systems and locks can help keep your shed and your belongings safe when they’re the furthest thing on your mind.

Because your portable shed has a smaller square footage than your home, securing it is quick and easy. Even taking just an hour or two to install security for your shed will greatly reduce your risk of theft, protecting your valuables and giving you peace of mind.

Alarm System

One of the most effective steps you can take to ensure your shed’s security is to install an alarm system, which can not only stop a burglary but also make it less appealing to steal from in the first place. Some alarm systems are activated by door handle contact, while others are motion-sensors and respond to movement around the sheds.

It’s recommended that you use battery-operated alarms instead of hardwired ones that are dependent on power, as there are often blackouts following a hurricane. You may also not want the added cost of adding electricity to your shed. The good news is many battery-operated security devices, like cameras that only run when triggered by motion, can operate for years without requiring significant maintenance and recharging. For added security, you can install motion-sensitive lights that can increase visibility and startle thieves.

Security Cameras

Installing security cameras inside and around your shed can deter burglars and give you recorded evidence you can show to the police. Cameras that have night vision, motion detection and ample video storage are ideal.

Door and Window Locks

Installing locks for your doors and windows can be tedious for your home, but locking your shed doesn’t take nearly as much time, nor as many materials. Because you only have to get a few locks, you should invest in high-quality ones that are weather and rust-resistant to ensure that they can hold even after a heavy downpour. Make sure your lock isn’t dependent on weak wooden hinges.

Window Bars or Curtains

Securing your windows with bars or window guards can help deter break-ins. Even just putting up curtains or blinds and taking extra effort to obscure outsiders’ view of your shed’s inner contents can reduce the risk of burglary.

Anchors

Portable sheds come with the unique hazard of being highly movable, as being detachable means burglars could tip it over to make breaking in easy. Anchoring your shed to its foundation or the ground can prevent intruders from moving the structure. For your more expensive items that thieves are most likely to steal, like your lawnmower or power tools, you may consider anchoring them to the floor as added protection.

Trim Landscaping Regularly

Trees and bushes are prime hiding spots for thieves. Trimming them around your shed so you have a clear line of sight can help deter burglars.

Should I Insure My Shed?

There aren’t any individual insurance plans for sheds. They’re usually protected under your homeowners insurance, although the coverage for personal property or theft damage may not be adequate if you’re storing particularly expensive property in your shed. 

It’s important you review your policy to verify the specifics and potentially add a personal property endorsement to your policy with a bigger limit to cover property stored in your shed. Even with robust security measures, your shed can still become damaged in a high-level hurricane. Sometimes, you can just be unlucky, which is what insurance helps protect you from.

Join the Thousands Across Florida Who Have Depended on Us for Their Contracting Needs

The experienced craftsmen at Bestway Portable Buildings Inc. will custom design your portable shed with your preferred color, build it on-site and finish it within one to three weeks. With a lifetime warranty against rust and corrosion, we’ll build your shed or portable building to last.

Request a free quote on your building plan online or call (850) 747-8974.