As a locksmith, it’s not uncommon for me to discuss insurance approved locks with a customer to find out they don’t really know what one is. I even find some customers do have approved locks on doors and windows but don’t always lock them with the given key.
Insurance companies are always looking for an excuse, not to payout, and the lack of approved locks on a door that has been broken into is just the excuse they need.
So let’s not give them a reason, lets’ upgrade those locks, and they are already upgraded, let’s start using them as intended.
The first step to understanding what they are and how they can help your insurance costs is to read the article by USwitch.
https://www.uswitch.com/home-insurance/types-of-door-locks/
Is an Insurance Approved Lock The Most Secure Type of Door Lock?
An insurance approved door lock which is fitted correctly by a professional is the most secure. The lock type and method of fitting the lock is an official British Standard and is required by most insurance companies. There are other locks that can be added to improve security further.
What are Approved Door Locks For Insurance?
In order for a door lock to be insurance approved it must meet British Standard 3621 (BS3621) and be fitted correctly in accordance with the guidelines.
How Do I Know if My Door Lock is Insurance Approved?
If a door lock meets the required standard it will display the BS3621 Kite Mark. If you can’t see the appropriate British Standard kite mark then your lock is not insurance approved.
What are BS3621 Locks?
BS3621 door locks are 5 Lever Mortice Deadlocks, commonly referred to as Chubb Locks. They require a key to lock and don’t just slam shut.
What is a 5 Lever Mortice Deadlock?
Some people ask what is the difference between a mortice lock and a deadlock? They are the same! They are commonly known as “Chubb Locks” which are now owned by the lock brand Union.
A 5 Lever Mortice deadlock is a lock that is fitted so that the lock is morticed (cut into) into the door and a keep into the door frame, where the bolt would lie when locked.
The internal locking mechanism is made of 5 levers meaning there is in excess of 2000 different key combinations.
You can read more about how different locks work here.
Are Thumbturn Locks Insurance Approved?
Traditionally thumbturn locks are not insurance approved, but there is a British Standard BS8621 which allows the use of a thumbturn lock for internal front doors in flats. Most commonly found in new-build flats. Check with your insurance company if they would accept this for your particular property.
This thumbturn lock pictured is not BS8621 (because the escutcheon is glued on)
