Burglars target windows as they can offer easier access than doors. Check how your windows look from the outside, removing potential access points where you can.
Are there walls, bins or garden furniture that could be used to reach windows? For windows that are within reaching distance such as ground floors, see our tips below.
1. Laminated glass or security film is recommended for ground floor and accessible windows.
2. Sash stops prevent anyone opening the sash window enough to climb through.
3. Key operated locks are recommended for window types that open out, rather than up, and any ground floor or accessible windows. Remember, window locks are only effective if used, so check that you have locked them before you leave home or go to bed.
4. Window opening restrictors allow you to ventilate your home but make sure they can’t be picked and unlocked from outside.
Further advice
Burglars have been known to use ladders to access upper windows that appear to be unlocked. This is to avoid intruder alarm sensors on the lower floor. These ladders are either found in a garden or brought by the suspect. You should make sure windows on upper floors have locks or sash stops. You should also extend any alarm sensor coverage to upper rooms.
If you’re replacing your windows, always consider a security accredited product as these windows are tested to British standards and are insurance approved. A good standard is PAS 24 2022.
A crime prevention advisor can suggest the correct standard of window lock and offer advice on upgrading window security.
Your home is only as secure as its weakest point of entry. That’s why it’s so important to have doors and windows that are as secure as possible. Follow our advice and help keep potential burglars out.
Whether you live in a flat or a house, your front door will always tell a thief the levels of security surrounding your home. If it looks really secure and burglar-resistant, then they’ll think twice about trying to gain entry.
A crime prevention adviser will check to see if your door is secure and made of solid timber or a robust composite. The advisor can also reinforce the frame and check if the locks and hinges are British Standard approved.
Sliding patio doors are vulnerable to forced entry, so do check that yours have an anti-lift device fitted so they can’t be lifted out of the frame.
Some uPVC doors are fitted with locks that protrude from the frame on the outside (euro profile locks for those in the know). If yours do, then consider getting a locksmith to change the lock to a shorter one that can’t be snapped off.
1. If your door has a letterbox, a guard fitted to the rear of the door will prevent someone reaching in with a stick and a hook to fish for any nearby items such as a handbag or keys – which should never be kept near exterior doors. Consider cat flaps and dog flaps too.
2. Windows can be reinforced by using special film or by installing laminated panels.
3. Spy holes and security chains are recommended so that anyone visiting can be identified before you open the door.
4. Always remember to use both locks and check to make sure that the door is double-locked every time you leave your home.
5. A simple turn of a double-locking nightlatch gives you added security and peace of mind.
6. Door bars, such as a London Bar or Birmingham Bar greatly reinforce the doorframe and provide excellent protection against anyone trying to force a door open or kicking it down.
7. A lockguard does exactly that; it protects the keyhole and lock from being tampered with and is a great deterrent.
If you are putting in a new door, always fit security accredited products as these are tested to British standards and approved by the insurance industry. Talk to your locksmith about standard PAS 24 2022.
If you are a building manager responsible for flats that are situated within larger buildings (for example, within apartment blocks), you should familiarise with up to to date fire safety requirements prior to any changes to front doors.
Double secure
Simply shutting the door won’t prevent burglaries. Double-lock the door every single time you leave the house.
Modern multi-locking and uPVC doors use a system of hooks and latches to secure the door but these only work if you lift up the handle and then remember to turn and remove the key. Remember – lift, lock and remove.
