What are insurance grade locks?
smslocksmiths • July 29, 2025
All the information you need, in one place - to find out if you comply with your insurance companies home security requirements.
If you're finding your insurance documents a bit confusing, or are filling out your online home security questionnaire and can't seem to understand which locks you have, this is the blog post for you. Here we will go through each of the lock types and their insurance approved status and what you may need to change to comply. We have even added images of the locks to make this whole guide a bit easier to digest and to compare to your existing locks.
Mortice locks
Mortice deadlocks are one of the most common type of locks referred to in a policy. A mortice lock requires a key to both lock and open it. Usually this done from the inside of the property and the outside of the property however there are fire safe deadlocks that utilize a small handle or built in key from the inside. Your home insurer may ask that it complies with British Standard BS3621.
External use, harder to break design, longer bolt, steel plates either side to stop drilling
Check for the Kitemark symbol, the broken heart this will be on the faceplate (the side of the lock the bolt extends from on the edge of the door)
Check for at least five levers marked on face plate
This also applies to mortice sashlocks, the only differences being above the bolt there will be a latch and handles to operate it.
Nightlaches
Nightlatches are the most common types of locks in London. Due to their convenience of just "locking" when you shut the door and their price range. You may know these as ‘yale locks’. In general, they come in two forms: standard nightlatches and deadlocking nightlatches .
- Standard – locks the door automatically unless you use the snib to hold the latch back
- Deadlocking – locks automatically and needs a key to open the door from outside, will 9 times out of 10 use a handle from the inside. Deadlocking latches are more secure, these preventing lock slipping
- Extra security/ convenience only – should not be sole lock on the door unless it's an insurance approved deadlocking nightlatch with a kitemark.
Multi point locking systems
Multi-point locking systems are now commonly used and are found mainly on UPVC doors. A multi-point locking system has a minimum of three locking points that all lock simultaneously with the turn of a key. They will often come with additional rollers or mushrooms that keep the door tight. Sometimes they may even have shooter bolts that go into the frame as soon as the door is shut.
- External use, garage and patio doors
- Minimum three locking points
- Locks using hook bolts, mushrooms or rollers
- All points lock simultaneously
- Secured by a cylinder which is the main point of security, locking the bolts in place and releasing them/ turning the latch.
- Should utilise a kitemarked cylinder to comply with insurance.
- Can be equipped with high security handles that add to the security level drastically.
Cylinder locks
Cylinder locks are a common type of lock found on doors. You would need to check with your home insurer whether this type of lock is acceptable as some types of cylinder locks are vulnerable to a technique known as lock snapping. To avoid this it is possible to get Anti snap euro cylinders and better yet a kitemarked cylinder that's up to date. All compliant cylinders that are BS and up to date are impervious to lock snapping attempts.
Internal and external use
Easy to install and change
UPVC and composite friendly
Check lock for BS Kitemark or ES symbol
Comes with or without a knob to be used from the inside, this ensures it is fire safe.
Key-operated security bolts
Commonly used on external doors, including French and double doors. Your policy may specify that key-operated security bolts should be fitted to the top and bottom of the door if these are on french doors or sliding doors.
- Can be surface-mounted (UPVC/ Metal) or fitted into the door (normally wooden doors)
- For French and double doors these should be fitted to the final closing door and positioned vertically
- Surface-mounted bolts will only be as strong as the screws which hold them in place
- A mortice bolt is more secure than a surface mounted bolt. If the key is removed, the bolt cannot be opened or easily manipulated.
Key operated security bolts can also be used on sash windows. We advise using key operated ones as opposed to regular security bolts, this stop manipulation from outside the property.
If you have any questions regarding your home security, are looking for home insurance security advice you're moving into a new home, changing insurance provider or even just want to upgrade your security - give us a call or contact us here
We always advise installing British standard locks on all external doors.
If you live in Wimbledon’s SW19, you know the vibe - gorgeous tree-lined streets, the buzz of the Wimbledon Tennis Championships, and the charm of the Village or Common just a short walk away. But between the stunning Victorian houses, sleek modern flats, and lively shops on the high street, there’s a catch: lockouts after a late night cheering at the All England Club or the odd break-in, in quieter spots can throw a wrench in your day. Even thing like moving homes or updating your home insurance can come with challenges. That’s when you need a local locksmith you can count on to sort things out fast. At SMS Locksmiths, we're proud to serve Wimbledon and the SW19 area (including Southfields, Merton Park, and Colliers Wood) with 24/7 emergency and planned services. Our DBS-checked, fully insured technicians arrive within 30 minutes, using non-destructive methods and transparent pricing - no hidden fees or call-out charges. Whether you're a homeowner securing your Edwardian semi-detached or a business owner in the Wimbledon Broadway retail hub, we're here to keep you safe. In this guide, we'll cover the top 5 locksmith services we provide to SW19 residents, tailored to local needs like upgrading heritage locks or handling post-match rush lockouts. Read on for practical tips, and remember: prevention is key to peace of mind. 1. Emergency Lock Opening: Back Inside in Minutes, No Damage to basic locks Nothing disrupts a Wimbledon evening stroll like realising you're locked out - keys forgotten after a coffee at Gail's or a tennis viewing party. Our lock opening service gets you back in fast using advanced pick-and-decode tools, bypassing tools and years of skill and experience, avoiding costly door damage. • Why Wimbledon residents love it: SW19's mix of old sash windows and modern uPVC doors means quick, non-destructive entry is essential. We handle everything from front doors to sheds and post boxes without a trace. • Real-life example: A local family in Southfields called us at 10 PM after misplacing keys during a dog walk on the Common. We arrived in 25 minutes, opened the lock in under 10, and advised on a spare key safe. • Pro tip: Always keep a copy of your keys with a family member or a person you trust, but call us immediately for lockouts - DIY attempts often lead to bigger bills. No matter the time, our 24/7 team ensures you're not stranded. Customer review: "SMS saved our night - professional and stress-free!" – Wimbledon Village resident (5 stars on Trustpilot). 2. Lock Changing: Fresh Security for New Starts in SW19 Moving into a charming Wimbledon flat or after losing keys? A lock change is your first line of defence against unknown access. We replace old locks with high-quality, British Standard (BS3621) compliant options that meet insurance requirements. • Tailored for Wimbledon: Many SW19 homes have outdated rim locks on period properties; we swap them for secure euro cylinders or deadbolts that fit seamlessly. • The process: On-site assessment (free quote), removal of old locks, installation (under 45 minutes), and a full test. Costs start from £110, with a 1-year warranty. • Local insight: With rising lettings in Merton Park, tenants often request changes post-move—we've helped dozens secure their new homes and flats without voiding deposits. Don't risk spare keys circulating; a quick change brings instant security. Book via our site for same-day service. 3. Lock Upgrades: Boost Protection Against Wimbledon Burglary Trends SW19 saw a spike in bike thefts and shed break-ins last year, per Merton Council reports. Our lock upgrades modernise your setup with anti-snap, anti-drill cylinders and multi-point systems, deterring thieves in high-traffic areas like Haydons Road. • SW19-specific benefits: Upgrade Victorian night latches to snap-resistant models or add 5 lever British standard deadlocks for Colliers Wood flats – we supply multiple brands for you to choose from on site. • Why upgrade now?: Standard locks fail 70% of tested break-ins; our BS-approved options slash that risk and keep premiums low. • Quick win: A Wimbledon Broadway shop owner upgraded their rear door after a near-miss; no incidents since, and they saved on insurance. We offer free security audits to spot weak points - perfect for families near the tennis grounds during tournament season. 4. New Lock Installations: Seamless Fits for Home or Business Renovating your Wimbledon townhouse or fitting out a new office near Plough Lane? Our lock installation service handles everything from single deadbolts to full master key systems for multi-unit properties. • Local expertise: We specialise in SW19's diverse builds -reinforced locks for ground-floor flats or heavy-duty ones for garage conversions in quiet Merton Park cul-de-sacs. • Step-by-step: Site visit for measurements, custom sourcing (e.g., thumb-turn cylinders for easy exit), professional fitting, and handover with keys and instructions. Most jobs completed in the first visit. • Business perk: For Wimbledon shops and cafes, we install mechanical digital access control for staff shifts, reducing downtime. Invest in lasting quality - our installations come with lifetime advice and no-fuss guarantees. 5. After-Burglary Services: Restore and Reinforce in SW19 A break-in is every homeowner's nightmare, and Wimbledon's green spaces can attract opportunists. Our after-burglary response includes immediate boarding-up, full lock replacements, and forensic-safe repairs to get you secure overnight. • Comprehensive support: We coordinate with police (providing reference numbers for claims), replace damaged frames, board up broken doors and windows to restore security providing you with peace of mind and giving you time to change doors. • Wimbledon focus: In areas like Southfields, where gardens back onto commons, we add perimeter advice like gravel paths for noise alerts. • From the frontlines: After a recent Merton burglary wave, we helped a family in SW19 board up, reinstall high-security locks, and claim via photos - back to normal in 24 hours. Act fast: Delaying repairs invites further risk. We're your second call after the police post-incident, with compassionate, efficient service. Why Choose SMS Locksmiths for Your Wimbledon SW19 Needs? As a family-run business with over a decade in South West London, we know SW19 inside out - from the rush of match days to the serenity of the Common. Our services aren't just fixes; they're tailored solutions with free quotes, 30-minute responses, and eco-friendly practices (we recycle old locks!). Plus, we're fully insured and DBS-vetted for your peace of mind. Ready to secure your Wimbledon home or business? Visit smslocksmith.co.uk to book online or request a free security check. For emergencies, we're just a click away - no postcode too far in SW19! Stay safe, Wimbledon - SMS Locksmiths has your back. #WimbledonLocksmith #SW19Security #EmergencyLocksmith #LockChangeWimbledon #MertonLocksmith ________________________________________ FAQs for SW19 Residents: Q: How quickly can you arrive in Wimbledon? A: Typically 20-30 minutes, 24/7 - no exceptions for rush hour on the A3! Q: Are your services insured for SW19 properties? A: Yes, all work is given a 1 year warranty and compliant with UK standards. Q: What's the cost for a basic lock change in Wimbledon? A: From £110, with no surprises - get a quote today. For more security tips, check our blog or follow us on social for Wimbledon updates!
Below is a more detailed breakdown of each service, which you can place under “Locksmith services we provide in Hounslow”: Lock Changes & Upgrades
 If you’ve just moved into a new home or want to increase your security, we can replace your locks with better, more secure models. Whether it’s euro cylinders, mortice locks, deadbolts or master key systems, we can recommend and install insurance-grade products. Lock Repair & Adjustment Locks wear out over time - maybe the key sticks or you force it to turn. We diagnose whether parts can be repaired (springs, levers, cylinders) or whether it requires replacement. We can also realign misaligned mechanisms so things work smoothly again. Emergency Lockout / Non-Destructive Entry Locked out at an inconvenient hour? We specialize in non-destructive entry, meaning we’ll open your door without breaking it. We carry a full set of specialised tools, from lock picks to tensioners, to gain entry safely and professionally. Burglary & Forced Entry Repair If your property has been broken into, we can repair or replace damaged locks, door frames, or hinges. We can also strengthen weak points and offer recommendations to prevent future incidents (e.g. reinforced strike plates, heavy-duty cylinders). Door & Frame Carpentry / Refurbishment Sometimes the door frame, jamb or door edge is also damaged or poorly aligned. We can carry out carpentry, reinforce the frame, repair door edges, or adjust the door fitting so your locks work properly. UPVC / Multi-Point Door & Window Mechanisms UPVC doors and windows often have multipoint locking systems that require delicate handling. We service, repair, or replace gearboxes, locking rods, handles, and cylinders. We can also realign or replace stuck mechanisms so your windows and doors seal properly. Commercial & Business Services For offices, shops, and commercial premises, we offer: Master key systems Restricted key zones Keyholding & emergency access Panic bars, exit devices, and high-security door furniture Mechanical Digital keypad / access control installations Lock re-keying when staff changeover occurs Area Coverage & Availability We cover the TW3 area and nearby zones in Hounslow, including Feltham, Heston, Cranford, and West Drayton. Wherever you are in Hounslow, we strive to reach you fast. We operate 24/7, every day. Even during weekends and bank holidays, we remain on call.
