Every business requires business insurance, it gives you as a business owner piece of mind that any accidents that happen, equipment that breaks or theft form your business will be covered and although it will be stressful at the time, it can be easily resolved by claiming through your insurance. However, if your property does not meet them minimum security requirements set by your insurer then you could find that your insurance policy is not valid.
Every insurance provider is different, and each set their own minimum requirements when it comes to lock types and security measures, so it is worth checking through your policy to check what they require and if you meet their requirements.
Below you can find a few examples of standard set by insurers and some penalties that are enforced for non-compliance.
Types Of Locks
Cylinder Rim Locks – On the outside of the door you will see the keyhole which is connected to the lock via a mounted cylinder on the inside. These locks need to meet British Standard BS3621 in order to be insurance compliant. If you don’t have a compliant lock, then you will need to implement other security measures alongside it. If you have a wooden door then the lock can be accompanied by a mortice lock, that complies with BS3621.
Mortice Locks – These locks are quite complex; they are embedded within the door. 5 lever mortice locks will comply with BS3621.
Multi-point Locking System – These are common locks found on uPVC door. The key and the locks work simultaneously with just one turn of the key. A minimum of three locks will be required to meet insures minimum standards.
Business Minimum Security Requirements
If you are running your business from a commercial property, then it is quite likely that you will already meet insures minimum requirements. In most cases business owner chooses to exceed insurers minimum requirements to ensure their business and any equipment are left safe and secure when the property is empty. With this said if your business does not meet insurers minimum requirements then it is important that you get that resolved fast, not only will you business be left vulnerable to burglars but you may also find your insurer may not be willing to pay out for a claim as in their eyes you haven’t taken the necessary steps to properly secure your business premises.
Each insurer will have different requirements so be sure to check through your policy, however, most insures require the final exit door to either meet or exceed BS3621 and be fitted with either, a multi point locking system, cylinder rim lock or mortice lock.
If you see the Kitemark displaying BS3621 on your lock then you can be sure that you comply with the industry standard that has been put together by the government, lock manufactures, the police, local authorities and architects.
Its not just your door locks you need to think about, insurers will also want your windows to be secure, this is achieved when your windows operate with a key locking system.
What To Do If Your Business Does Not Meet Minimum Requirements
If the security measures at your business don’t meet the minimum requirements, then it is important that you call a locksmith and arrange to have them upgraded as soon as possible. This may seem like one of the least important things that you have to deal with as a business owner but, if the worst were to happen then it could be a very stressful and costly mistake. Not only will you have to deal with possible down time, replacing equipment and tools and repairs, chances are your insurance company won’t pay out for any claims as your insurance policy was invalid due to poor security measures.
By having your locks and other security measures upgraded not only will it protect your business, but it could also reduce your insurance premiums.
If the locks at your business don’t meet your insurers minimum standards or you just want to upgrade your locks for extra piece of mind, then contact Lock It Security today – 02380 453 539 or 07887 407 319
