Is Your Front Door Voiding Your Home Insurance?

It’s the start of the year, and many homeowners are reviewing their finances, checking direct debits, and looking at where they can save money. But there’s one piece of “fine print” in your home insurance policy that you might have missed, and it could cost you thousands if you’re ever burgled. Let’s review front door security to make sure you are covered. 

The “Minimum Security Standard” Clause

Most insurers require your external doors to meet specific British Standards for locks and security. If you make a claim for a break-in and your locks don’t meet these standards, they can refuse to pay out.

Not reduce the payout. Refuse it entirely.

We’ve seen it happen, and it’s heartbreaking. Someone gets burgled, loses valuables, has their home violated, then discovers their insurance won’t cover a penny because their lock was ten years old and didn’t meet current standards.

What to Look For

Go to your front door right now and take a proper look at the lock.

Wooden Doors: You should see the British Standard Kitemark symbol engraved on the lock faceplate, along with the code BS3621. If it’s not there, or if the lock looks old and worn, it’s likely outdated and won’t meet your insurance requirements.

uPVC/Composite Doors: You need a cylinder that’s resistant to snapping. This is the most common method burglars use to break into modern door. Most insurers ask for a minimum of 3 locking points. While each insurer is different when it comes to the cylinder we advise customers to Look for the 3-Star Kitemark symbol or the Sold Secure Diamond logo stamped on the cylinder itself (the bit where you put the key). This insures all parts of the lock meet the highest standard.

If you can’t see these symbols, or if you’re not sure what you’re looking at, your door probably isn’t compliant.

 

Don’t Risk It

Burglars know which locks are weak. They share information, they watch YouTube tutorials, and they can spot a vulnerable cylinder from across the street.

Insurers know which locks are compliant. They write the policies, and they’re very good at finding reasons not to pay out if you haven’t met your obligations.

The question is: do you know if your locks measure up?

 

Get Peace of Mind

Hogs Back Security offers a free home security survey for properties in Farnham, Godalming, Aldershot, and the surrounding areas. We’ll check your locks against your insurance requirements and tell you honestly whether you need upgrades.

If you do, we’ll fit British Standard locks that meet current insurance standards, give you the certificates to keep with your policy documents, and most importantly, give you proper peace of mind for 2025.

Don’t wait until after a break-in to find out your insurance won’t pay.

📞 Call us today: 07570 252 223