When arranging home insurance, most homeowners focus on the level of cover, excess and monthly premiums. However, one detail that often gets overlooked is the type and condition of the locks protecting your property.
Many people don’t realise that the locks fitted to your doors can influence your home insurance policy. In some cases, they may even affect whether a claim is accepted following a burglary.
At RJ Parker Locksmiths, we’re often asked whether upgrading locks is worthwhile. The answer is yes – not only for your home’s security but also to help ensure your insurance requirements are met.
Why do insurers ask about your door locks?
Home insurers assess the level of risk before offering cover.
One of the factors they consider is how well your property is protected against forced entry. Strong, well-maintained locks reduce the likelihood of burglary, making your home less risky to insure.
When applying for home insurance, you may be asked questions about:
- The type of locks fitted to your front and rear doors.
- Whether your property has key-operated locks.
- The age and construction of your doors.
- Whether any additional security measures are installed.
Providing accurate information is important, as insurers expect the details you give to reflect the security fitted to your home.
Do all insurers require British Standard locks?
Not necessarily.
Many UK insurers either recommend or specify locks that meet recognised British Standards, but requirements vary between insurance providers and individual policies.
For example, many insurers prefer:
- Five-lever mortice deadlocks on timber external doors that comply with the relevant British Standard.
- Multipoint locking systems on modern uPVC and composite doors.
- Key-operated locks on easily accessible windows where appropriate.
Rather than assuming your locks meet your insurer’s requirements, it’s always worth checking your policy wording or asking your insurer directly.
What is a British Standard lock?
A British Standard lock has been independently tested to meet recognised security and performance requirements.
Many compliant locks carry the familiar British Standard Kitemark, making them easier to identify.
Installing locks that meet recognised standards can provide reassurance that your home’s security is in line with current industry expectations.
Can an insurance claim be rejected because of your locks?
Potentially, although every claim is assessed on its own circumstances.
For example, problems could arise if:
- Incorrect information was provided when taking out the policy.
- Required security measures were not in place.
- A specified lock had been removed or replaced with a lower-security alternative.
- A burglary occurred because a required locking mechanism was not used.
This doesn’t mean every burglary claim involving older locks will automatically be refused. However, failing to meet the terms of your insurance policy could complicate the claims process.
What if you’ve recently moved house?
One of the first jobs after moving into a new property should be changing the external door locks.
You never know how many previous owners, tenants, contractors or neighbours may still have copies of the keys.
Replacing the locks not only improves security but also gives you complete control over who has access to your home.
Are older locks still safe?
Not always.
Like any mechanical device, locks wear over time. Older locks may also lack some of the security features found in more modern designs.
If your locks are becoming stiff, difficult to operate or showing visible signs of wear, it may be time to have them inspected by a professional locksmith.
Upgrading older locks can improve both security and day-to-day reliability.
Don’t forget patio and French doors
While homeowners often focus on the front door, insurers expect all accessible entry points to provide an appropriate level of security.
Rear doors, patio doors and French doors should all have properly functioning locking systems.
If you’ve noticed your patio door becoming harder to lock during the recent spell of warm weather, it’s worth having it checked before a minor alignment issue develops into a security problem.
How can a locksmith help?
A professional locksmith can:
- Assess your existing locks.
- Identify whether they meet recognised security standards.
- Replace worn or damaged locks.
- Upgrade older locking systems.
- Adjust doors that have become difficult to lock.
- Offer practical advice based on your property’s security needs.
If you’re unsure whether your locks are suitable, it’s far better to ask than to make assumptions.
Protect your home with the right locks
Your door locks play an important role in protecting your home, and they may also form part of your home insurance requirements.
While every insurer has different criteria, ensuring your locks are secure, well-maintained and appropriate for your property can provide valuable peace of mind.
At RJ Parker Locksmiths, we help homeowners upgrade, repair and replace door locks across the local area. Whether you’ve recently moved home, want to improve your property’s security or simply need advice on your existing locks, our experienced team is here to help.
Contact RJ Parker Locksmiths today to arrange a professional lock assessment and keep your home secure.