Do I need Insurance approved door lock cylinders

Free advice on Insurance approved door lock cylinders and what you really need to know. What types are covered by insurance companies and how to measure a door lock cylinder.

Insurance approved locks can come in various sizes but commonly Euro cylinders are used UPVC door locks, wood, metal and composite doors.

How do I know if my door lock is insurance approved?
Now this is a very common question. Over the years door lock cylinders and insurance requirements have indeed changed. The older standard euro cylinder security was upgraded by adding an anti snap sacrificial end to the external part of the cylinder. What this does is snaps off when attacked leaving only a small section left in the doors whilst keeping the door locked.

The easy way to identify if you r lock is insurance approved is to remove it from the door to see if it has 3 stars and a BS kite mark stamped on the side. Garrison locks key team are happy to advise on this by simply sending in a photo of the lock, we will identify it for you .

How thieves now attack door lock cylinders.
So we have covered the basic Euro cylinders with an anti snap end to help prevent unauthorised access into your home or office. But thieves have caught onto the fact that by removing the handles this then exposes the rest of the euro cylinder and this can then be further snapped and possibly unlock the door. So how can we prevent this happening?

How to prevent thieves snapping euro cylinders and handles.
Standard Euro profile cylinders have changed due to insurance companies requiring greater security. The 3 star rated TS007 Euro cylinder was then designed with even greater anti snap features. Allowing the from to snap away but the remaining part of the cylinder had an interlocking cam, crumple zones and pips inserted to prevent snapper bar tools being used. Handles were upgrade like these ones to further enhance security.

Blow torching door locks and why do it?
The positives of having a 3 star rated insurance approved lock is that you will be covered by your insurance if you get broken into. But fitting PAS24 handles will give even more security making the door lock virtually impenetrable. The next step by thieves is to blow torch around the handles but with a 3 star rated lock and PAS 24 door lock handles it’s extremely difficult to force the door lock handles and cylinder from the door.

Beating thieves by installing both Security handles and insurance approved locks. Can this be achieved?
Absolutely. By installing both items your door will be as secure as it can be. It will conform to insurance requirements and you will be safe in knowing you have done all you can to secure your home or office.

We know a good brand of door handles to use for my UPVC Composite door.
Hoppe, ASEC and Mila manufacture PAS24 door lock handles that are bolt through and will offer a greater level of security.

Do you need further help or advice on door locking systems. Garrison locks have a team of experienced locksmiths who can advise on exactly what you will need to secure your doors.

How do I contact Garrison Locks. Please call our sales team on 01858 464133. Alternatively email the lock department.