The 2025 London Home Security Checklist – What Every Homeowner Must Know

Keeping your home secure in London isn’t just about having a lock — it’s about having the right locks, strong habits, and understanding the weak points of your property.

Whether you’ve just moved into a new home or have lived there for years, this simple security checklist will help you protect your property and avoid common risks.

At AMZ Locksmith, we regularly help homeowners and businesses improve their security across

Acton, Harlesden, Wembley, Kilburn and NW10  surrounding areas

making sure locks meet modern standards and insurance requirements.

AMZ Locksmith van responding to a home security call in West London, helping residents upgrade locks and improve door security.

1. Secure Your Main Entry Points

Your doors are the most common entry points for burglars, so they must be properly secured.

Make sure your main doors have:

• Front door: British Standard BS3621 mortice lock or a secure night latch

• Back door: A strong euro cylinder, preferably anti-snap

• UPVC or composite doors: Ensure the multipoint locking system fully engages

• Sheds and garages: Install heavy-duty padlocks or deadbolts

• 
  

If you’re unsure whether your locks meet current standards, a professional locksmith can quickly check and advise.

2. Replace Weak or Outdated Locks

Many homes in London still use older locks that can be bypassed easily.

Signs your locks may need upgrading include:

• Old standard euro cylinders that can snap

• Loose or worn Yale night latches

• Rusty or damaged locks

• Keys sticking or becoming difficult to turn

  
  

Upgrading to 3-Star anti-snap cylinders, such as Ultion or Yale Platinum, provides significantly better protection.

3. Secure Your Windows

Windows are often overlooked but remain a common access point for intruders.

To improve window security:

• Install locks on ground-floor windows

• Use window restrictors in flats or family homes

• Reinforce older wooden window frames

  
  

These simple upgrades can reduce the risk of forced entry.

4. Add Visible Security Deterrents

Burglars usually avoid homes that appear well protected.

Effective deterrents include:

• Security cameras

• Motion-sensor lighting

• Alarm system signage

  
  

Even basic smart security devices can discourage opportunistic criminals.

5. Change Locks After Moving Into a Property

If you have recently moved into a new home, changing the locks should be a priority.

Previous owners, tenants, or contractors may still have keys.

For better security:

• Replace all external door locks

• Ensure locks meet British Standard BS3621 requirements

• Keep your lock installation receipt for insurance purposes

  
  

6. Avoid Common Security Mistakes

Many break-ins occur because of small but important mistakes.

Avoid:

• Leaving keys inside the door overnight

• Locking only one lock when multiple locks are fitted

• Hiring extremely cheap locksmith services without identification

• Not requesting a receipt or proof of work

  
  

Always use a verified and insured locksmith.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to change the locks when I move into a new house?

Yes. When moving into a new property, it’s always recommended to change all external door locks. Previous owners, tenants, estate agents, or contractors may still have copies of the keys.

What type of locks do insurance companies require in the UK?

Most insurance providers require British Standard BS3621 locks on wooden doors. For uPVC or composite doors, a multipoint locking system with a high-security euro cylinder is usually recommended.

What is an anti-snap lock?

Anti-snap locks are specially designed euro cylinders that prevent burglars from snapping the lock using force. They are one of the most effective upgrades for uPVC and composite doors.

How often should door locks be replaced?

Door locks do not have a fixed lifespan, but they should be replaced if they become worn, damaged, difficult to turn, or if the keys have been lost or stolen.

Can a locksmith check my home security?

Yes. A professional locksmith can carry out a home security check, inspect your locks, identify weak points, and recommend upgrades to improve your property’s security.

Call AMZ Locksmith

AMZ Locksmith provides 24/7 emergency locksmith services across West and North West London, including:

ActonHarlesdenWembleyKilburnNW10 and surrounding areas

Services include:

• Emergency lockouts

• Lock replacements and upgrades

• UPVC door lock repairs

• Home and business security checks

• 
  

Phone: 07484 839662

Website: www.amzlocksmith.co.uk

UKLA Member | DBS Checked | Fully Insured