Security Door & Window Lock Types London

Your guide to choosing the right security locks for your London property. Understand lock types, standards, and which locks best protect your home or business.

Call Now Get a Free Quote

25 min

Response Time

15+ yrs

Experience

100%

Licensed & Insured

24/7

Always Available

Hidden Fees

Door Security

Door Lock Types

Five-Lever Mortice Deadlock

The gold standard for wooden door security. A BS3621-rated five-lever mortice deadlock is fitted within the door itself and throws a solid bolt into the frame. Required by most home insurance policies. Brands: Chubb, Union, ERA, and Yale. Our lock installation service fits these to any wooden door.

Best for: Front and back doors on wooden frames

Night Latch (Yale-Type Lock)

Rim-mounted spring locks that latch automatically when the door closes. Standard night latches offer basic security but should always be paired with a mortice deadlock. Look for models with a deadlocking function that prevents the latch being pushed back.

Best for: Secondary lock on front doors

Euro Cylinder Lock

Used in uPVC, composite, and some timber doors with multi-point locking systems. Modern anti-snap euro cylinders include protection against snapping, bumping, picking, and drilling. Look for TS007 3-star rated cylinders or 1-star cylinders with 2-star escutcheons. Our uPVC locksmith team specialises in these.

Best for: uPVC and composite doors

Multi-Point Locking System

A gearbox mechanism that engages multiple locking points (typically 3-5) along the door edge when you lift the handle and turn the key. Provides significantly stronger resistance to forced entry than a single lock. Standard on modern uPVC and composite doors.

Best for: uPVC, composite, and high-security doors

Smart Locks

Keyless entry via smartphone app, PIN code, fingerprint, or key card. Smart locks offer convenience features like remote access, temporary codes for guests, and activity logs. Top brands include Yale Conexis, Samsung, and Nuki. We recommend models that retain a physical key backup.

Best for: Tech-savvy homeowners, rental properties, Airbnb hosts

Window Security

Window Lock Types

Sash Window Locks

Sash stops, dual screws, and Brighton fasteners for traditional sliding sash windows. Prevent the sashes from being opened from outside. Essential for period properties across London.

Casement Window Locks

Cockspur handles and espagnolette handles with key-locking function for side-hinged casement windows. Lockable handles prevent the window being opened without the key.

uPVC Window Locks

Multi-point espagnolette window locks with key-operated handles. Replace broken or worn handles to restore security. Available in white, chrome, gold, and black finishes.

Window Restrictors

Cable or stay restrictors limit how far a window opens, improving child safety while maintaining ventilation. Can be overridden with a key for fire escape requirements.

Certifications

Security Standards to Look For

BS3621

British Standard

The key standard for mortice deadlocks. Required by most insurance policies. Ensures the lock meets rigorous security testing criteria. Need a lock change to meet BS3621?

TS007

Kitemark Rating

Star rating for euro cylinders. 3-star cylinders (or 1-star with 2-star handle) provide anti-snap, anti-bump, anti-pick, and anti-drill protection.

SBD

Secured by Design

A police-backed initiative that certifies products meeting enhanced security standards. Look for SBD-approved locks for the highest level of protection.

Security Lock FAQ

Find answers to common questions about our locksmith services.

What lock does my home insurance require?

Most UK home insurance policies require BS3621-rated five-lever mortice deadlocks on external wooden doors. For uPVC and composite doors, an anti-snap euro cylinder that meets TS007 3-star rating (or 1-star cylinder with 2-star handle) is typically required. Check your policy wording or ask our locksmith for a free assessment.

What is the most secure type of door lock?

For wooden doors, a combination of a BS3621 five-lever mortice deadlock and a rim automatic deadlatch provides the best security. For uPVC doors, a multi-point locking system with an anti-snap, anti-bump, anti-pick, anti-drill euro cylinder offers the highest protection.

Are smart locks as secure as traditional locks?

Good quality smart locks from reputable brands meet the same physical security standards as traditional locks while adding convenience features. Look for smart locks with Sold Secure or Secured by Design accreditation. We recommend smart locks that also retain a physical key backup.

How do I know if my euro cylinder is vulnerable to snapping?

If your euro cylinder protrudes more than 3mm from the door handle or escutcheon, it may be vulnerable to snapping. Older cylinders without anti-snap features are particularly at risk. Our locksmith can check your cylinders and recommend replacements if needed.

Need help choosing the right locks? Call us

Our locksmiths provide free security advice and can upgrade your locks today. 24/7 across London.

Call 020 4524 6667