Is Your Lock Safe Enough? Understanding European (EN) and British (BS) Lock Standards in Ireland
When you buy a lock, you're not just buying metal; you're buying security and, crucially, insurance compliance. In Ireland, knowing the grade of your lock is vital, as using low-quality, unrated locks could actually void your home insurance policy if you are burgled.
We're here to demystify the numbers and letters on your lock and show you what the Irish market looks for in terms of quality and resistance.
The Key Standards Explained
Two main sets of standards apply to the locks you'll find in Irish homes:
1. British Standard (BS3621): This is the gold standard for thief resistance and is often explicitly required by insurance companies for main doors. Locks carrying the BS3621 mark (usually accompanied by the recognizable Kitemark logo) have been rigorously tested against common attack methods like drilling, picking, and forcing.
2. European Standard (EN 1303): This standard focuses more on the durability, reliability, and security of the cylinder itself—especially against picking and drilling. You will often see this mark on your Euro cylinders (the lock barrels found in uPVC and modern timber doors). High-security cylinders often carry a classification under this system.
Cylinder Snapping: The Modern Threat
In recent years, the most common attack method on uPVC and composite doors is Cylinder Snapping. This involves breaking the cylinder in the middle to manipulate the internal mechanism. If you have this type of lock, you must check its rating.
What to Look For: To resist snapping, your cylinder needs to be anti-snap or snap-resistant.
Why Quality Matters for Insurance
It's crucial to understand that if your insurance company requires a BS3621 lock on your main entry points and you only have a low-grade lock installed, they could reject your claim in the event of a burglary.
Don't settle for a cheap lock just to save a few euro. That small saving could cost you thousands later on. Always check your policy and ensure your home meets the security clauses specified for your coverage.
Are your locks up to code? If you're unsure whether your home meets Irish security standards or your insurance requirements, call us for a professional, no-obligation security assessment today.
