Home Security Guide for the South West
Good home security starts with good locks, but it does not end there. This guide covers practical steps you can take to protect your home in the South West, from upgrading your locks to simple habits that make a real difference. Whether you live in a terraced house in Bristol or a rural property, these tips apply to you.
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Start with Your Front Door
Your front door is the most common entry point for burglars. Make sure it has a lock that meets BS3621, which is the standard required by most insurance policies. If you have a uPVC or composite door with a euro cylinder, upgrade to an anti-snap cylinder. Standard euro cylinders can be broken in under 30 seconds using a technique called lock snapping. Anti-snap cylinders are designed to resist this attack and cost as little as £30-£60 for the lock itself, or £60-£100 fitted by a locksmith in the South West. This is the single most effective security upgrade for most homes.
Secure Your Windows
Windows are the second most common entry point. Ensure all ground-floor and accessible windows have working locks. Most modern uPVC windows have built-in locks, but older ones may need retrofitting. Wooden windows should have key-operated window locks fitted. Consider fitting window restrictors that allow the window to open for ventilation but not wide enough for entry. Laminated glass is more resistant to breaking than standard double glazing, though it is an expensive upgrade. At minimum, make sure all window locks work and are used, especially at night and when you are out.
Smart Locks and Keyless Entry
Smart locks let you lock and unlock your door with a phone app, keypad code, or fingerprint. They eliminate the risk of lost keys and let you grant temporary access to visitors, tradespeople or cleaners without handing over a physical key. Many smart locks also keep a log of when the door was locked and unlocked. Popular brands available in the South West include Yale Conexis, Ultion Nuki, and Samsung. Prices range from £150-£350 for the lock, plus fitting. Make sure any smart lock you choose still meets BS3621 or your insurance may not cover you.
Other Security Measures
Beyond locks, there are several other steps that improve home security. Outdoor lighting with motion sensors deters opportunistic burglars. A visible burglar alarm (even a dummy box) acts as a deterrent. Video doorbells like Ring or Google Nest let you see who is at your door remotely. Keep hedges trimmed so the front of your property is visible from the street. Do not leave spare keys under mats, pots or fake rocks. Use timer switches to turn lights on when you are away. Cancel newspaper and milk deliveries when on holiday, and ask a neighbour to move your bins.
When to Call a Locksmith
A professional locksmith can carry out a security survey of your home, identifying weak points and recommending targeted upgrades. This is especially worthwhile after moving into a new property, after a break-in or attempted break-in on your street, or if your locks are more than 10 years old. Locksmiths in Bristol, Bath, Exeter, Plymouth and Swindon can advise on the best locks and security products for your specific doors and budget, and fit everything in a single visit. It is a relatively small investment for significant peace of mind.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most important security upgrade?▼
Upgrading to anti-snap euro cylinders on your uPVC or composite doors is the single most effective and affordable upgrade for most homes. Standard euro cylinders are the most common weak point exploited by burglars. A quality anti-snap cylinder costs £60-£100 fitted and dramatically improves your door security.
Are smart locks secure?▼
Good-quality smart locks from reputable brands are very secure. Look for models that meet BS3621 and have been independently tested. The main risk with smart locks is poor battery management (most run on standard batteries) and weak phone security. Always use a strong PIN and keep the lock firmware updated.
Does my insurance require specific locks?▼
Most home insurance policies require a BS3621-rated lock on all external doors. Some insurers also require window locks on ground-floor windows. Check your policy and upgrade if necessary, as a claim could be rejected if your locks do not meet the required standard. Your locksmith can confirm which of your locks are compliant.
How much does a full security upgrade cost?▼
A basic upgrade covering anti-snap cylinders on 2 doors and window locks typically costs £150-£300 fitted in the South West. A more comprehensive upgrade including a smart lock, security hinges and letter box restrictor might cost £400-£700. A full security survey with recommendations is often free or low-cost from local locksmiths.
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