When you lock your door, you expect two things: that your home is secure from intruders, and that you’ve met the obligations of your home insurance policy. However, many homeowners are unaware that the type of lock they have could be failing them on both counts.
In the world of home security, not all locks are created equal. The benchmark for quality and security in the UK is the British Standard. If your locks don’t meet this standard, you may not be as protected as you think. This guide, drawing on information from leading industry bodies like the Master Locksmiths Association, explains what you need to know.
What is a British Standard Lock?
A British Standard lock is one that has been independently tested and certified by the British Standards Institute (BSI) to withstand common, modern burglary techniques. The most well-known standard for home door locks is BS 3621.
This isn’t just a quality mark; it’s a security certification. To achieve BS 3621, the lock must prove it can resist forced entry methods including drilling, picking, and manipulation. It signifies that your lock is a high-security device, not just a simple latch.
How to Identify a British Standard Lock
You don’t need to be a locksmith to check your locks. The key is to look for the BSI
Kitemark stamped onto the faceplate of the lock—the metal plate you see in the edge of the door when it’s open. Alongside the Kitemark symbol, the specific standard number, such as ‘BS 3621’, will be clearly engraved.
This standard can apply to several common lock types:
- Mortice Locks: A 5-lever mortice deadlock or sashlock can be BS 3621 compliant. If it has fewer than 5 levers, it will not meet the standard.
- Cylinder Locks: Many modern doors use euro cylinders. These can be certified to BS 3621, often as part of a complete high-security lockset.
- Night Latches: While a standard “Yale” type latch is not sufficient on its own, some high-security night latches are designed to meet the BS 3621 standard.
The BS 3621 Family: More Than Just One Standard
To ensure both security and safety, the BSI has developed a family of related standards for different situations. The one you need depends on your property type.
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BS 3621 – The Standard for Homes: This is the most common standard for houses. It requires a key for operation from both the inside and the outside. This prevents a burglar from breaking a nearby window, reaching in to unlock the door, and walking out with your valuables.
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BS 8621 – For Emergency Exits (Flats & Apartments): This standard is for properties with a single exit door, such as an apartment building. The lock can be opened from the inside without a key, typically using a thumbturn knob. This is a crucial fire safety feature, allowing residents to escape quickly in an emergency without having to find a key.
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BS 10621 – For Properties with Multiple Exits: This standard is for locks that can only be locked with a key from the outside. You cannot lock the door from the inside. This prevents a scenario where a burglar enters through an unlocked back door and then uses a key left in the front door to lock it, trapping the residents inside.
Why This Matters for Your Insurance and Safety
While insurers don’t “approve” specific locks, they set minimum security requirements in their policies, and this very often means specifying a lock that meets BS 3621. If you are burgled and your locks are not compliant, your claim could be denied.
Crucially, it’s not just about compliance, but about having the correct standard for your situation. Having the wrong type of lock could be just as problematic as having one that isn’t British Standard at all.
Is Your Home Correctly Secured?
Take a moment to check your doors. Do you see the Kitemark? Are you confident you have the right type of lock for your property? If you’re in any doubt, the best course of action is to consult a professional.
As your local Swindon locksmiths, we can provide a full security assessment to ensure your locks are not only insurance-compliant but are the correct standard for your safety needs. Don’t leave your security to guesswork.
Contact us today for a no-obligation consultation and the peace of mind that comes with knowing your home is properly protected.
