When was the last time you checked whether your business premises still meet the security requirements of your insurance policy? Did you even realise your insurance policy had security requirements?
Don’t worry if not – you’re far from the only one!
It’s easy to assume that as long as you lock your doors and set your alarms when you close, everything is fine. But insurance providers often have specific requirements about the type of locks protecting your premises. And if those requirements aren’t met, it could affect any future claims you need to make. The good news is that checking your locks is usually far simpler than dealing with the consequences of finding out too late.
Why Do Insurance Companies Specify Locks?
Insurance companies are all about assessing risk and minimising it. That’s how they make their money after all. The more secure your premises are, the less likely they are to receive claims for burglary or theft. That’s why most commercial insurance policies include a section on minimum security requirements. They often specify the minimum standard of locks that should be fitted to external doors, windows or any other access points across the buildings. They’re not there to make life difficult for you, just to make sure reasonable security measures are in place before they provide cover.
What Happens If Your Locks Don’t Meet Requirements?
Every insurance policy is different, which is why it’s important to read the terms carefully. In some cases, failing to meet the required security standards could reduce the amount paid out following a claim. In more serious situations, an insurer may question whether the policy conditions were met at the time of the incident, and if they find they aren’t, then they’ll throw your whole claim out.
Which is why it’s worth reviewing your security before you ever need to make a claim. It’s a lot easier and cheaper than dealing with the fallout if your claim is denied!
What Types of Locks are Usually Required?
The exact requirements will vary depending on who your insurer is, the type of business you operate and the level of cover you’ve chosen. However, commercial insurance policies will often refer to locks that meet recognised security standards. These may include:
- British Standard mortice deadlocks
- High-security euro cylinder locks
- Multi-point locking systems
- Key-operated security shutters
- Approved window locks
Rather than just saying ‘fit a lock’, the policy documents will usually specify that it should meet a recognised standard, or be professionally installed. If you’re not sure what your policy requires, it’s worth checking with your insurer or speaking to a qualified locksmith.
It’s Not Just About the Lock
Even the best lock can’t do its job if it’s fitted to a weak or damaged door. If you’ve made a claim, insurance assessors may also consider the overall security of your premises, including:
- The condition of external doors
- Door frames
- Hinges
- Security lighting
- Roller shutters
- Window security
- Access control systems
A high-security lock installed on a poorly maintained door may still leave your property vulnerable, which is why looking at your security as a whole often provides better protection than upgrading a single lock.
Best Times to Review Your Locks
You don’t need to be checking your locks every single day to make sure they’re still compliant. But you probably shouldn’t leave years between checks either! Instead, here are a few points you should arrange to check your lock compliance.
When your locks change: Businesses evolve, things change. You might renovate your premises, replace damaged doors or upgrade your office. It’s surprisingly common for locks to be changed over time without checking whether the replacement still meets the requirements of the insurance policy. And if your locks are over 20 years old, then they probably don’t meet the level of protection you need. A review every 6 months to 1 year can help you keep on top of this.
Lost keys or staff changes: It’s not just the lock, it’s the keys too. Just think about how many people have had access to your keys over the years. Former employees, contractors or even previous tenants might still have copies of keys if your locks haven’t been changed. Whenever there’s uncertainty about who has access to your premises, replacing or rekeying the locks can provide valuable peace of mind.
Fire exit doors: Commercial buildings often have multiple entrances and exits. While your main entrance may have a high-security locking system, side doors, rear access points and fire exits should also be protected just as heavily. These doors need to balance security with safe emergency escape, so choosing the correct hardware is essential. A locksmith can advise on solutions that provide appropriate security while meeting the practical requirements of the building.
Your locks are one of the first lines of defence protecting your business, employees and assets. They’re also an important part of meeting the conditions of many commercial insurance policies. If you haven’t reviewed your commercial security for a while, now is a good time to do it. An experienced locksmith can assess your existing locks, explain whether they meet current standards and help you choose the right security for your premises. Whether you own a shop, office, warehouse or other commercial property, making sure your locks are suitable today could help you avoid unnecessary problems in the future.