Summertime is approaching but, before you pull out the patio furniture to enjoy the great outdoors, ensure you have suitable protection.

According to research from Halifax, garden theft increased by 63 percent during the summer months last year with London the number one hotspot for garden theft claims. The cost of replacing stolen items also increased by 12 percent to £433 with items stolen including furniture, tools, garden ornaments and barbecues.

Given the hefty price tags for many valuables, homeowners are urged to check their home insurance policies to ensure they include theft from the garden. Not all insurers will include this protection automatically - you may need to add it on for an additional premium. You should also be careful to check the limit on the cover available - many home insurers cap the value of garden contents they will replace in the region of £250.

Property owners should also take steps to protect their homes from would-be thieves. Enhancing the security of your garden can help to cut your premiums particularly if you take out extensive cover for garden items.

Homeowners should leave items such as tools, lawnmowers and bicycles locked up and out of sight. It's best to mark valuable items such as ornaments and furniture to increase the chances of recovery if they are stolen and put bricks in patio tubs to make them heavy and difficult to carry.

Gravel on driveways and around gardens is a smart move as this will deter thieves. Also look at placing prickly hedges around borders to make the garden less accessible. High walls or spiked fences, security cameras and security lighting could also help you save on your premiums as long as you consult the insurer about which goods to buy.