Getting the correct insurance is important to every business owner, once you have an insurance policy in place it is important that you follow the requirements set within that policy. If you find that your locks don’t meet your insurers minimum requirements then this should be something you resolve as soon as possible as you could find that this makes your insurance policy void, and should the worst happen and you fall victim to a break-in then its not likely that your insurer will pay out on any claims made.
Each insurer will have their own set of minimum requirements for their policies so it is important that you check over your documents carefully to make sure you know exactly what security measures you are required to have in place.
Below you will find some standard security measures that are often set by most insurance companies and penalties for noncompliance.
Lock Types
Rim Cylinder Locks – These locks are more commonly known as Yale locks and work by the outer keyhole of the lock being connected to the inside keyhole via a cylinder. In order for this type of lock to meet insurance minimum requirements they should meet or exceed BS3621. If this is not the case with your lock then it either needs upgrading or other security measures implemented to use alongside it, for example if you have wooden doors then you could have a BS3621 mortice lock installed.
Mortice Locks – A mortice lock is a complex lock; it is embedded within a door. A five-leaver mortice lock or higher would meet BS3621.
Multipoint Locking System – These locks are often found on uPVC doors. They work by all of the locks being activated simultaneously by just one turn of the key. In order for these locks to be insurance compliant a minimum of three locks will be required.
Minimum Security Requirements for Businesses
If your business is run from a commercial property such as an office block, then it is likely that you will already meet the minimum-security requirements set by insurers. With this said most businesses do choose to have their security measures exceed the minimum requirements set by insures for peace of mind that their business assets and equipment are kept as safe and secure as can be. If this is the case for your business then you will almost certainly meet the minimum security requirements set by your insurer, however if this is not the case then it needs addressing as soon as possible and a quick call to your local locksmith they will be able to advise you on the best insurance graded locks for your business premises and offer any other security advice you may require.
The minimum security requirements do vary between each insurer so it is important that you check your policy carefully however, most insurers will require that the lock on the final exit door will need to meet or exceed BS3621 and will need to be either a rim cylinder, mortice lock, or multi point locking system.
As well as door locks insurers will also require your windows to be secure, this means that all windows will be required to have a key operated locking system. Again, if this is not the case at your business premises then you will need a locksmith to come and install locks to all of your windows.
By having a locksmith come and upgrade your door and window locks your not only ensuring that your business insurance policy is valid, but also you will have the extra peace of mind knowing that your business premises is as safe and secure as it possibly can be.
If you need help upgrading the security measures you have in place at your business, then contact Quick Locks UK today – 01302 272 192