Locking up

In the good old days (so they say...) people never locked their doors. But today, with home security an issue in Tasmania, it’s important to not only lock your front door but also the windows, shed and garage of your home. Plus the locks need to be of a good standard.

This feature gives you the information you need to make your home more secure. You may need to get expert advice and professional installation. We connect you to people who can help.

Are you safe?

Having good security may also save you money on your home and contents insurance premiums. Check with your insurer whether keyed window locks, deadlocks or an alarm system means you pay less.

Types of locks

There are a variety of locks, of differing prices, that you can fit to your home. Get some advice from a professional locksmith or security expert about appropriate locks.

Safety deadlock – allows keyed entry from outside but can be opened without a key from the inside

Double cylinder deadlock – keyed opening from both the inside and outside. These locks prevent a burglar escaping easily through the door. For your safety in case of emergency, keep a key close by but hidden so that you can exit quickly.

Security deadlock – suitable for hinged or sliding doors. This lock must have a lockable turn and cannot be forced open.

Pin-styled lock – suitable for sliding doors and windows. These can be locked or closed in a partially open position. 100 mm is the suggested maximum opening for security. Get them all keyed alike so you only need one key to open any lock.

Some common locks:

Surface mounted or mortice mounted locks
This is fixed to the surface of the door. A mortice lock is one where the opening is made in the edge of the door where the locking mechanism is fit.

Mortice deadlock
These are set into the door rather than resting on the surface of the door. They can be operated by a key from outside or by turning the knob from inside.

Mortice deadbolt
Also set into the door, deadbolts are opened or closed from both sides with a key. The door should stay locked to everyone without a key. This will mean goods can’t be carried out through the door if you are burgled.

Automatic deadlock
Can only be opened for the outside by a key, but can be opened by turning the knob inside without a key. At the turn of a key the lock cannot be opened from the inside. These are fitted on the surface of the door and are used where the door is too thin for a mortice deadbolt.

Rim latch
Is attached to the surface of the door. It is only as strong as the screws that attach it so make sure that the screws are strong enough to withstand attack and are concealed. Deadlocks and bolts are more reliable.

Some insurance policies require mortice locks before you can be covered for contents insurance. Check with your insurer company before installing new locks.

Installing locks

Get a qualified locksmith to install any locks. They are able to make different locks use the one key, which is convenient.

The strength of your locks and doors is also determined by the strength of the frame. You may need to strengthen the door frame either by adding pieces of wood or steel. If you have glass next to your front door you may need to reinforce the glass.

If installing a window lock, make sure the frame is strong and they are mounted with non-removable screws.

back to top