Are Your Locks Insurance Compliant?
Most business owners understand the importance of having insurance. But what often gets missed is the fine print. If your locks don’t meet your insurer’s minimum security standards, you might not be covered—even if you think you are.
Each insurer sets their own requirements. If your locks fall short, they could reject your claim. Let’s take a look at the basics so you can make sure your security is up to standard.
Common Lock Types and Insurance Standards
Cylinder Rim Locks (Nightlatches)
These are often found on wooden front doors. A keyhole on the outside connects to a lock mounted inside. To comply with insurance standards, make sure the lock is BS3621 approved. If it’s not, you should pair it with a compliant mortice lock.
Mortice Locks
These sit inside the door and offer a more secure option. A five-lever mortice deadlock that meets BS3621 usually ticks all the boxes for most insurers.
Multi-Point Locking Systems
Used mainly on uPVC or composite doors, these locks secure the door in multiple places with a single turn of the key. Your lock should secure the door in at least three locations to meet most insurance guidelines.
What Are the Minimum Security Requirements?
Most commercial properties already use higher-grade locks, but it’s still important to double-check. Even one non-compliant lock could affect your insurance coverage.
Insurers usually expect your final exit door to have one of the following:
- A BS3621 mortice lock
- A BS3621 nightlatch
- A multi-point lock with three or more locking points
Look for the British Standard Kitemark—it’s a small logo that shows the lock meets agreed industry standards.
Don’t Overlook Your Windows
Your doors might be secure, but windows can often become the weak link. Insurers expect all accessible windows to have key-operated locks. If you can open a window from the outside without a key, it’s a risk your policy might not cover.
What If Your Locks Don’t Meet the Standard?
If your locks don’t meet the required security level, now’s the time to upgrade them. It might not seem urgent, but if a break-in happens, your insurer could refuse to pay out.
You’ll end up covering the loss yourself.
Upgrading your locks not only keeps your business secure—it can sometimes help lower your insurance premium too. And when you work with a qualified locksmith, the upgrade doesn’t need to be expensive or disruptive.
Call Locksmith Winchester for a Lock Upgrade
At Locksmith Winchester, we help local businesses stay secure and insurance compliant. We can assess your current setup, recommend the best upgrades, and carry out the work quickly and professionally.
Call us on 01962 690072
Visit: locksmithwinchester.co.uk
Let’s make sure your locks protect your property—and your policy.
