Security

Most burglaries can be prevented by taking some simple and relatively inexpensive precautions. Many are committed at random by opportunist thieves and in two burglaries out of ten, the thief does not even have to force his way in because a door or window has been left unsecure. Intruders avoid windows which are locked because breaking glass attracts attention and they do not like high security locks because they cannot open them even from the inside.

If you have any concerns regarding your insurance companies’ requirements or would like advice as to the most appropriate locks to use, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

BS3621 Insurance Rated Locks

In all instances it is good practice to fit British Standard Approved locks to all of your external doors. It is in many cases an Insurance company requirement and will reduce your premium. Approved locks carry the British Standard Kite Mark and are approved to BS3621, a rigorous test standard to which the locks must perform. Approved locks come in the form of a five lever dead lock or sash lock which are typically fitted to your front door, along with a night latch (Yale lock), and a five lever sash lock, which you would typically fit to your backdoor.

Yale Locks

Insurance rated night latches (Yale locks) are now becoming more common, but we would recommend they are still used with a separate insurance rated five lever lock.

Security Window Locks

All accessible and ground floor windows should be fitted with key operated window locks. Patio doors and French doors should have at least two key-operated door locks, preferably at the top and bottom of the door.

Locks for Garages and outbuildings

Garages and outbuildings should always be protected by suitable British Standard locks or padlocks; they often contain valuable equipment, which could be useful to a burglar. Garden tools for instance can be used to force open doors or windows.