Are Your Locks Insurance Compliant? A Guide for Thanet Homeowners from Thanet Locksmiths
As a homeowner in Thanet, protecting your property is paramount. While alarms and security cameras play a role, the first line of defence against unwanted intruders is almost always your locks. What many people don’t realise, however, is that the type and standard of locks you have fitted can directly impact your home insurance policy – from whether your claim is valid to how much you pay in premiums.
Here at Thanet Locksmiths, we frequently encounter homeowners who are unsure about their lock compliance. This guide will help you understand what your insurance provider typically expects and how upgrading your locks can offer both enhanced security and potential financial benefits.
Why Your Insurer Cares About Your Locks
Insurance companies assess risk. A home with robust, insurance-approved locks is statistically less likely to suffer a successful break-in, reducing the chance of them having to pay out a claim for theft or damage. If your locks don’t meet their specified minimum security requirements, your insurer might:
- Invalidate your claim: In the unfortunate event of a burglary, if your locks weren’t up to the standard you declared (or what they required), your insurer could refuse to pay out your claim. This is a devastating scenario that can be easily avoided.
- Charge higher premiums: Homes with inadequate security are deemed riskier, leading to higher annual insurance costs.
- Refuse to offer cover: In some cases, if your security is significantly below their minimum requirements, an insurer might decline to offer you a policy altogether.
It’s crucial to always check your specific policy documents. The details can vary between providers, but there are common standards they look for.
Understanding British Standard (BS) Locks
The most common benchmark for security in the UK is the British Standard (BS) Kitemark. When it comes to locks, you’ll most often hear about BS3621.
What is BS3621?
BS3621 is the British Standard for “thief-resistant” locks, typically applying to mortice deadlocks and some cylinder rim locks (like night latches). A lock that meets BS3621 has been rigorously tested against common attack methods such as drilling, picking, and forcing.
How to Spot a BS3621 Lock:
When you open your door, look at the faceplate of the lock (the metal strip visible on the edge of the door). You should see:
- The British Standard Kitemark symbol (a stylised ‘K’ inside a heart shape).
- The standard number “BS3621” followed by a year (e.g., BS3621:2017).
Common Insurance Requirements for Doors:
Most insurers will require that your main external doors (front and back) are secured with one of the following:
- A mortice deadlock with at least 5 levers conforming to BS3621.
- A multi-point locking system (common on uPVC and composite doors) that has at least three locking points and a lock cylinder with at least five pins. For higher security, look for cylinders tested to TS007 or SS312.
- A rim automatic deadlatch with a key-locking handle on the inside, also conforming to BS3621.
- For other external doors, sometimes key-operated security bolts at the top and bottom in addition to existing locks may be required.
Window Security:
Don’t forget your windows! Most policies require key-operated locks on all accessible windows (ground floor and those easily accessible from other floors, e.g., via a flat roof or drainpipe).
How Upgrading Your Locks Can Save You Money and Provide Better Coverage
Investing in higher quality, insurance-compliant locks isn’t just about meeting requirements; it’s a smart financial decision:
- Lower Premiums: Many insurance providers offer discounts on your home insurance premiums if you have certified, high-security locks installed. By reducing their risk, they can pass those savings on to you.
- Guaranteed Payouts: Ensuring your locks meet the required standards gives you peace of mind that, should the worst happen, your claim will be valid, and you’ll receive the compensation you’re entitled to.
- Enhanced Protection: Beyond insurance, upgrading to modern, robust locks significantly increases your home’s resistance to forced entry, providing a stronger deterrent and more effective security for your family and valuables. Anti-snap cylinders, for instance, protect against a common attack method on uPVC doors.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing your home is properly secured with locks that meet professional standards offers invaluable peace of mind, allowing you to relax whether you’re at home or away.
Let Thanet Locksmiths Help You Get Compliant
Not sure if your existing locks meet insurance standards? Worried you might be at risk or paying too much for your policy? Thanet Locksmiths can help:
- Free Security Survey: We offer a complimentary, no-obligation security assessment of your home. We’ll inspect your current locks and advise you on their compliance with common insurance requirements.
- Expert Advice: We can clearly explain the different lock types, their security features, and which ones would best suit your specific doors and windows, all while keeping insurance compliance in mind.
- Professional Installation: We supply and fit a wide range of British Standard approved locks, including anti-snap cylinders, multi-point locking systems, and high-security mortice deadlocks, ensuring they are installed correctly for maximum effectiveness and compliance.
- Transparent Pricing: We provide upfront quotes with no hidden fees, so you know exactly what to expect.
Don’t leave your home security to chance. Contact Thanet Locksmiths today to discuss your lock compliance and take the first step towards a more secure home and potentially lower insurance costs.