Your Home Security
Locks
Mortise
deadlock
Mortise locks fit into a slot cut into the edge of the door and
usually can only be opened with a key. These should be upgraded
to 5-lever locks tested to BS: 3621. This is usually a minimum insurance
requirement. The locks are based on a range of standard measurements
so, with careful matching, replacement is easy. The deadlock means
a thief cant smash a nearby glass panel to open the door from the
inside or, having entered through a window, cannot carry your belongings
out through the door.
Rim lock or Night latch
A rim lock is screwed to the face of the door and latches automatically
when you close the door unless held open with the snib. Unless it
also has the term deadlock attached, it can be opened by turning
a knob. Rim locks should be tested to BS:3621
Automatic deadlocking 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.
Ideally both types of lock should be fitted to a door at roughly one third spacing. Both being used to secure the empty home and just the night latch for regular use during occupancy.
Multi-point locking involves several hooks or bolts holding the door into the frame. The lock cylinders should be tested to BS EN 1303 Grade 3 and can be replaced.
If your door is BS: PAS24 and it requires replacement locks ensure they are changed like for like to continue the level of security.
[click for SBD specification products for this section]