Insurance-approved door locks
Fitting the right locks on your doors will protect your home while making sure you aren’t invalidating your home insurance policy.
Explore the unique advantages of a range of insurance-approved door locks and how they can not only protect your home, but also save you money on insurance premiums.
Fitting the right locks on your doors will protect your home while making sure you aren’t invalidating your home insurance policy.
Explore the unique advantages of a range of insurance-approved door locks and how they can not only protect your home, but also save you money on insurance premiums.
What are the insurance requirements for door locks?
When it comes to insurance, there are certain locks that insurance providers will approve. When you apply for a policy, they’ll ask you what types of locks you have fitted.
Having the correct locks fitted could help you save on the cost of your premium. This is because insurance-approved locks, fitted by a professional locksmith, are typically the most secure.
If your door locks aren’t in compliance with your policy, your insurance provider might not pay out in the event of a burglary.
What are the different types of approved door lock for insurance?
Most insurance providers will approve the following types of locks:
Five-lever mortice locks
A five-lever mortice lock is regarded as having a good standard of security, especially when the lock conforms to the correct British Standard (usually BS 3621). A mortice lock requires a key to open and lock it.
Multi-point locking systems
Some of the most secure locks include multi-point locking systems, in particular SS312 Diamond approved cylinders, which are usually found on uPVC and composite doors.
Multi-point locks have a minimum of three locking points that all lock at the same time when you turn the key. For example, a door could lock at key level and bolt the door into the frame at the top and bottom.
If you have sliding patio doors, you may need to install an anti-lift patio lock for increased security to stop the door being lifted off its rails.
Night latches
A night latch is a lock that’s mounted on the surface of the door, instead of being morticed into the edge of the door. Night latches can often be deadlocked.
Some insurance providers may prefer that you use night latches together with either a five-lever mortice lock or a multi-point locking system.
Bolts
Door bolts are a sliding bolt for a locking door, often used at the top or bottom of doors to provide additional security.
Insurance-approved window locks
You may also find your policy has insurance requirements for window locks. Your insurance provider will ask about locks on any accessible windows.
Make sure you fit all downstairs windows with an internal lock – and preferably locks that are key operated. These are often fitted in the handle itself, especially if you have double glazing.
If you don’t have them, locks can also be fitted to the top or bottom of windows.
Insurance-approved sliding door locks
If you have French or patio doors, locks could be fitted with a central rail locking mechanism, which you’ll typically see on uPVC types of doors.
If you’re not sure what locks you have or which ones you need, it might be worth a quick call to your insurance provider. They should be able to give you advice on the best type to get, then you’re free to decide how many you need and how to have them installed.
Regardless of which types of doors and windows you’re securing, it’s always important to check the wording and requirements of your home insurance policy as they’re likely to differ among insurance providers.
Electronic/digital door locks
Smart locks allow you to remotely operate your door locks using a smartphone app or fob, so there’s no need for a physical key.
As long as your smart lock is used alongside a mortice deadlock, it shouldn’t affect your home insurance.
Can my insurance policy be invalidated even if I have the right locks?
Even if you have secure locks fitted on all your doors and windows, if they’re left unlocked and a theft happens as a result, it’s likely your claim wouldn’t be paid. This is because most insurance providers insist there are signs of ‘force and violence’ used to gain entry to your home for a theft to be covered.
You’ll also need to notify your insurance provider if your home is going to be unoccupied for longer than is stated as acceptable in your policy – this is usually around 30 days.
If you’re going to be away for longer, contact your insurance provider as you may be able to pay for extra cover. Alternatively, you could look for a specialist policy to protect your home while it’s empty.
Can insurance-approved locks help me get a better home insurance deal?
They could well do. When you apply for home insurance, the provider will ask what type of locks you have fitted. In some cases, you’ll be offered a discount if they’re insurance-approved locks.
However, costs and potential discounts can vary between providers. That’s why it’s a good idea to shop around and see what’s on offer.
Start by comparing home insurance deals with us today and see if you can protect your home for less.
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Get a quoteFrequently asked questions
Why do I need insurance-approved locks?
Insurance providers require you to have specific approved locks for safety reasons. British Standard locks are tested against burglary techniques such as drilling and picking and offer one of the highest standards of security.
If you don’t have British Standard locks, you may have to pay a higher premium. Some providers may even refuse to cover you.
How can I tell if my locks are BS 3621?
To find out if your locks conform to BS 3621, check the faceplate of the lock, which is viewable when you open the door. There should be a British Standard Kitemark, and a standard number engraved on the lock plate.
Is it expensive to fit insurance-approved locks?
It depends on how many doors and windows you need to secure. Sure, it’s an expense, but it’s worth it if it lowers the risk of you being burgled.
And if you can get a discount on your home insurance, you’ll recoup some of that expense by paying less for your premium.
Can I fit my own door lock?
While there’s nothing to stop you fitting your own locks, it’s advisable to get a professional in to do the job.
You can find a list of locksmiths approved by the Master Locksmiths Association on the MLA website.
What other safety features could help me get cheaper home insurance?
Additional security features could help keep your home safe and may even reduce the cost of your home insurance. These include:
- A working burglar alarm
- Security cameras
- Video doorbells
- Remote-controlled, smart lighting
- Outdoor security lights.
Read more tips on keeping your home safe and secure.
Anna McEntee - Insurance comparison expert
Anna’s all about delivering fantastic insurance products at a great price. Value is the most important thing for Anna, as she cuts through the jargon and finds what’s most important and worth your hard-earned money.
Rebecca Goodman - Insurance expert
Rebecca Goodman is a freelance financial journalist who specialises in insurance, personal finance and consumer affairs. Rebecca regularly writes for national newspapers including The Independent and The Mail on Sunday on a wide-range of financial topics. She covers everything from money-saving tips and holiday advice to investigations into how energy efficient appliances can cut the cost of household bills and the impact donating money can have on those in need. Along with features in national papers, Rebecca also writes news stories for websites including Yourmoney.com and The Money Edit.