Doors, windows, locks and safe key storage
High-quality locks are your first line of defence against break-ins - they make unauthorised entry more difficult and time-consuming, discouraging potential burglars.
Make sure you lock your doors and windows
- Whilst this may sound simple, a significant number of burglaries take place because people become complacent.
- Make sure - even if you are in your house - to lock your front door, ensure you don't leave external windows fully open (if you are not in the room) and that you lock upstairs windows that can be easily reached from ground floor level.
- Also make sure your back gate, and garage are locked at all times.
Also consider the following:
- BS3621 standard locks – We recommend ensuring all external doors are fitted with locks that meet the British Standard BS3621. This is often a requirement for home insurance policies.
- Anti-snap locks – On uPVC or composite doors, upgrade to anti-snap euro cylinder locks. These are designed to resist lock snapping – a common and quick method used by burglars to break into homes. Look for cylinders that meet TS007 3-star or Sold Secure Diamond standards.
- Window locks – Install key-operated locks on all accessible windows to prevent them from being opened from the outside.
- Smart locks – Consider upgrading to smart locks that allow you to control access remotely and monitor who enters and exits your home. Smartlocks can present risks if they rely solely on Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, so we recommend locks tested to EN 14846 or certified through Secured by Design. Also remember to keep your firmware up to date once installed.
- Patio door locks – Sliding patio doors are a common target for burglars. Ensure they are secured with a patio door security bar, anti-lift devices, or a dedicated secondary locking mechanism in addition to the standard latch.
Safe key storage
If you need to leave a key for someone else (e.g., a carer, cleaner, or friend):
- Avoid leaving your keys in obvious hiding places like under doormats, inside fake rocks, plant pots, or above door frames. These spots are well known to burglars.
- If you can, opt to leave a key with a trusted neighbour.
Alternatively, consider a key safe, however do follow our tips:
- We recommend key safes that are properly certified (e.g., LPCB or Secured by Design).
- Ensure your key safe is securely mounted to an exterior wall in a discreet location (that is not obvious/an advert to potential intruders.
- Make sure you change your access code regularly.
- Only share the code with trusted individuals.
- Be aware that some insurance policies require clear signs of forced entry for burglary claims - if access is gained through a key from a safe with no visible damage, a claim might be refused. As such we recommend speaking to your insurer to let them know you are considering installing one.
Top tip
- Affordable physical enhancements such as sash jammers or door viewers (peepholes) to doors and windows is a low-cost but effective improvement that can offer added reassurance, particularly to vulnerable residents.
- Opt for products tested and approved by Sold Secure or Secured by Design indicating they meet stringent security standards.