How To Choose The Right Lock For Your Home
When picking the right lock for your home, you need to consider more than just the aesthetic advantages. You need to think about the level of security you need, who will be using your door and how much you want to spend.
Level Of Security
If you live in a standard residential home, then a standard key in lock set up should be fine. We always recommend making sure any lock you buy bears the British Standard Kite Mark and is installed by a professional.
If you are looking for a lock for a short-term rental property, such as an Airbnb then there are more factors to consider. High usage by different people may indicate that a smart lock is needed. This means renters can unlock the door with their phones and you, as the owner, can make send electronic keys to let guests in. This can eliminate the risk of tenants copying keys and returning later to break in.
If you live in a high crime area, then you may want to do some research on high security locks. This would include anti-snap locks, anti-bump locks, or Ultion Locks. These can provide extra protection against potential break ins. You might also want to consider looking in to extra options for door security, such as a door chain, letterbox guard or a London Bar. If you are interested in extra door security then we’ve got lots more information within our Home Hub.
Who Will Be Using the Door
If there will be a small number of people using the lock, a couple for instance with two keys, the likelihood of loosing the keys in minimal. So, a standard euro or mortice lock should be fine for you. Although if you are a house of multiple occupancy or you have 2 or 3 children using the door then, again, smart locks might be a good option. Virtual keys cannot be lost or stolen, which is going to make the home safer. Smart locks also come with apps, so you will be able to check if your children have locked the door when they’ve left.
If you have any occupants of the home that a disabled or less able to use a key, then you will need to research keyless entry locks. These are modern smart locks, that can unlock the door when it senses a fob or a smart phone within a certain range. These types of smart locks will also automatically lock the door behind you, so its one less thing to worry about.
How Much You Want to Spend
This is where the real decision needs to be made, as in an ideal world most people would have the best, most advanced lock for their home. However, they don’t come cheap, so you have to weigh up whether the cost is beneficial.
Like previously stated if you live in a standard residential area, with average crime rates, paying several hundred pounds might not benefit you. As a standard euro or mortice lock will be sufficient.
On the other hand, if you own a short term rental property then it could be worth investing a bit more money into the right lock. Especially if it is your only source of income. With a high occupancy turn over, the money you spend initially on a higher level security lock, or a smart lock, may pay off in the long run.
Max Kelly
Max is a home security how-to expert with extensive knowledge of securing doors, windows, and entire properties. With years of experience in the field, he specialises in easy-to-follow DIY solutions for common security issues. His practical, step-by-step guides empower homeowners to strengthen their safety measures with confidence and ease.
