Security Hints & Tips

The opportunist thief will look for safe, easy targets. By applying a few basic security principles you can make your property unapealing to the thief…

EXTERNAL DOORS

Ensure that locks conforming to BS3621 or multi-point locks are attached and used on all external doors. Install an outside light near your front door to help you see a caller in the dark. If it is not possible to see through the door then install a spy hole to allow you to see who is calling before you open the door. A security door chain can also be installed to allow you to open the door without the caller being able to push the door fully open.

WINDOWS

Ensure that all easily accessible windows are fitted with key operable locks which are locked and the key removed when not in use.

KEYS

Don’t be tempted to leave a spare key under the doormat or anywhere similar incase you lose your keys. No matter how well you think you have hidden it, a thief will easily find it and your insurance will probably not cover you for any loss. Don’t leave keys anywhere near doors with letterboxes, a thief can ‘fish’ them with a long pole and open the door or steal a car.

ALARMS

Burglars hate alarms, they are noisy and they don’t like the attention that they get. Get one professionaly fitted and your insurance premiums will probably reduce also.

OUTSIDE OF PROPERTY

Thieves don’t want to be seen, install outdoor lights with a movement sensor that comes on when someone approaches it. Don’t leave ladders or anything else which allow an intruder to gain entry to your property outside. If they need to be outside then lock them up so they can’t be used. Although rockeries, flower pots, garden ornaments etc make your garden look nice, they are also ideal window entry tools and should be secured firmly to the ground.

OUT BUILDINGS

If you keep valuables in an outbuilding then secure it as per your house.

Types of Locks we use

We carry a wide range of Locks depending on your needs. If you want upgrades for your present security we can offer BS3261 Insurance approved Locks ranging from Mortice Sash or dead Locks, Yale Type Locks to include Euro Locks (For Upvc or composite doors) If your budget is unable to stretch to these we also offer excellent quality budget Locks in all types with your needs very much in our minds. Brand names to include Chubb, ERA, Union, Securefast, Legge etc.

There are many different types of lock but the main locks you are likely to find on a residential property are listed below. It is helpful when contacting us if you are able to identify which type you have.

MORTICE DEAD LOCKS

Mortice locks fit into a slot cut into the edge of the door and are often referred to as ‘Chubb’ locks but are actually made by many different companies. Most insurance companies specify that the lock must contain at least 5 levers and conform to British Standards 3621. The deadlocking feature means that a thief can’t smash a nearby glass panel to open the door from the inside or, having entered through a window, carry your belongings out through the door. There are two variations of deadlocks, the mortice deadbolt and the mortice sashlock. A sashlock will have a handle attached in order to open the door whereas the deadbolt has no handle.

RIM LOCK OR NIGHTLATCH

A rim lock is attached to the face of the door and latches automatically when you close the door unless held open with the snib. They are commonly referred to as ‘Yale’ locks but can be made by many different companies. A rim lock should be used in conjunction with a mortice deadlock.

AUTOMATIC DEAD LOCKING RIM LOCK

This locks automatically when the door is closed and is more secure than other types of rim latch. It needs a key to open it from both the inside and the outside and should meet BS: 3621.

MULTI-POINT LOCK

Multi-point locks are usually found in UPVC (plastic) and aluminium doors and employ a combination of hooks, bolts and rollers to secure the door. They are usually operated with a euro cylinder in either a ‘keyway’ or oval shape.