Home security begins at the front door, yet according to master locksmith Craig Andres from The Perspicacity Life many homeowners are unaware that the type of lock they have could be making them an easy target for burglars. The difference between a 1-star and 3-star euro profile cylinder lock isn’t just about security, it could also impact home insurance claims and leave tenants and homebuyers vulnerable.
“Most people assume that all locks provide the same level of protection, but that’s simply not the case,” says Craig. “A 1-star rated lock may meet basic standards, but it lacks the anti-snap, anti-bump, and anti-pick features that a 3-star lock has. Burglars know this and they take advantage of it.”
Euro profile cylinder locks are one of the most common types used in UK homes, especially in new-builds and rental properties. However, not all landlords or property developers install the most secure options. Many standard locks, especially 1-star cylinders can be bypassed in seconds using lock-snapping, a technique frequently used in break-ins.
For homebuyers and new tenants, this is particularly concerning. A weak lock doesn’t just put a property at risk, it could also invalidate the home insurance policy. Some insurance providers require specific security standards, and if your locks don’t meet these requirements, any claim after a burglary could be rejected.
Craig explains: “Many insurance companies specify TS007 3-star locks or a combination of a 1-star lock and a 2-star door handle as a minimum requirement. If a home doesn’t comply, the owners might not even realise that their insurance policy is invalid.”
