You should always lock all doors and windows when you go out, even if you’re just popping to the end of the street or downstairs in your apartment complex.
We discuss the different types of locks you can use to secure your home, and how to keep your home secure.
Why you need to keep your home locked
Making sure your doors and windows are locked may be a condition of your home, contents or buildings insurance so make sure you check your policy documents.
If your doors aren’t locked and you need to make a theft claim on your home insurance, you probably won’t be covered and could be left out of pocket.
Maintaining your house locks also reduces your chances of falling victim to theft and at the very least, may reduce the amount that’s taken.
How to keep your home secure
For optimal security consider fitting deadlocks or key-operated security bolts to all external doors and key operated locks to all your accessible windows.
If you do have deadlocks, you should use them, as they make it harder for thieves to get in.
You should also consider changing the locks when you move into a new home as the previous occupant may have copies of the keys, especially if the home was a rental property before.
If you're living in rented accommodation, speak to the landlord as you'll need their permission first and may need to provide them with a copy of the new keys.
Types of door lock
There are six different types of house, window and door locks you should know.
5 Lever Mortice Deadlock
This is a good quality lock which will have a British Standard Kitemark and the code BS3621 - according to Yale these locks offer the maximum security for wooden doors.
Key-operated multipoint lock
These are most often found on uPVC doors and when locked, bolts the door into the frame.
Rim automatic lock
This lock fits on the inside of the door with a handle on the front and is often used in addition to other locks on a door for extra security.
Top and bottom key-operated lock for patio doors
If you have patio doors in your home you should make sure they’re fitted with locks on both the top and bottom.
Window lock
When looking for home insurance you may find insurers expect your windows to have key operated locks.
Central rail key-operated lock for patio or French doors
This is fitted to the central rail on patio doors and gives the doors multi-lock points.
