Buildings

The next "onion" layer is the buildings/outbuildings or stables. Try to ensure that all scrap metal is out of sight unless you intend to sell it - if you do, remember to use a reputable registered waste carrier and to check that any Company have the necessary certificates!

Any portable equipment should not be stored in isolated buildings that are not of a brick-built structure, concrete or heavy timber.

Five-lever locking devices should be fitted to doors; if there are windows, then a suitable locking device should be used or if the window is not needed, block them up or fit steel bars, wood or metal shutters. If a padlock is needed, then a closed-shackled padlock should be used and consideration should be given to using a metal housing, welded to the door which will prevent bolt cutters or metal bars such as crowbars being used.

Lighting of buildings makes it more difficult for thieves to go "unseen". The cheapest form of lighting at this time is the "dusk to dawn" lights which do not require regulation and are relatively cheap to run.

Alternatively, if an area doesn't need permanent overnight lighting, the use of a photo-electric switch spotlight could be used in conjunction with a motion detector - this will illuminate any "night-time callers".

It may also be prudent to install a simple CCTV monitoring system to work in conjunction with any lighting.