Top Security Tips from Professional Locksmiths in Central London from Professional Locksmiths in Central London

Top Security Tips from Professional Locksmiths in Central London. Living or working in Central London comes with many benefits proximity to world-class amenities, cultural landmarks, vibrant nightlife, and high-value property.

Top Security Tips from Professional Locksmiths

But with these benefits also comes an elevated risk of theft, burglary, and property crime. Whether you own a townhouse in Westminster, rent a flat in Fitzrovia, or run a business in Soho, security must be a top priority.

At Locksmith Co, we’ve spent years helping residents and business owners protect their properties across Central London. Through hundreds of site visits, emergency call-outs, and consultations, we’ve identified the most effective security practices that truly make a difference.

In this article, we share our top security tips to help you stay safe, protect your assets, and avoid the mistakes that make properties vulnerable to intrusion. These recommendations are based on real-world experience from qualified locksmiths serving Central London 24/7.

Top Security Tips from Professional Locksmiths in Central London

1. Always Use British Standard Locks (BS3621 or TS007)

One of the simplest yet most overlooked security upgrades is ensuring your property is fitted with locks that meet British Standards. BS3621 and TS007-rated locks are tested for strength, durability, and resistance to tampering techniques like drilling, picking, and snapping.

These locks are often required by insurance companies and significantly improve your property’s resistance to forced entry.

We recommend:

• BS3621 mortice deadlocks for wooden doors
• TS007 3-star euro cylinders for uPVC or composite doors
• Night latches with automatic deadlocking features for added protection

If your locks do not meet these standards, they should be upgraded immediately not just for compliance, but for peace of mind.

2. Upgrade to Anti-Snap and Anti-Drill Cylinders

One of the most common burglary methods in London today is lock snapping a quick and quiet attack on standard euro cylinders. This method can take as little as 30 seconds and requires no special tools.

To prevent this, install anti-snap cylinders with anti-pick and anti-drill features. These locks are engineered to break in a controlled manner if tampered with, rendering the mechanism useless to intruders.

At Locksmith Co, we only use high-security cylinders approved under the Sold Secure and Secured by Design schemes for all replacement work.

3. Reinforce Your Door and Frame

Even the strongest lock can be compromised if the door or frame is weak. Central London properties, especially older buildings, often feature wooden doors that may have warped or weakened over time.

Security reinforcements include:

• Hinge bolts to prevent the door from being forced off its hinges
• London or Birmingham bars to reinforce the door frame
• Steel plates or lock guards around vulnerable locks
• Upgraded strike plates secured with long, deep-set screws

These additions dramatically increase the time and effort required to force entry, deterring most burglars.

4. Install a High-Security Night Latch

A basic night latch offers limited protection. Many traditional Yale-type locks can be slipped open with a plastic card or bypassed using simple tools.

We advise upgrading to:

• Auto-deadlocking night latches, which automatically secure the bolt when the door is shut
• Latches with internal locking snibs to prevent key access from outside
• Models compliant with BS3621 for full insurance coverage

Night latches are especially important in shared buildings or converted townhouses common in Central London boroughs.

5. Never Hide Keys Outdoors

Under the doormat, inside a flowerpot, or behind the outdoor light these may seem like clever hiding spots, but they’re exactly where burglars look first. Hiding keys outside your property invites trouble.

Instead:

• Use a police-approved key safe fixed securely to a concealed wall
• Share access only with trusted individuals
• Rotate access codes periodically, especially after service visits

For holiday lets or rental units, consider switching to smart locks that allow timed access codes instead of physical keys.

6. Install a Peephole and Door Chain

Sometimes, a small upgrade can make a big difference. Peepholes and door chains allow you to screen visitors before opening your door an important layer of protection, especially in apartment buildings.

We recommend:

• Wide-angle peepholes for increased visibility
• Strong door chains with reinforced screws
• Door viewers at a height accessible to all household members

Never open the door to strangers without verification. If in doubt, speak through the door or contact building security.

7. Consider Smart Locks for Added Convenience and Control

Central London is home to many short-let and serviced apartment properties where managing key handovers can be a logistical challenge. Smart locks provide keyless entry via mobile app, PIN code, or fingerprint scan and can be locked or unlocked remotely.

Benefits include:

• Temporary codes for cleaners, guests, or maintenance
• Notifications when someone enters or exits
• No lost keys or need for rekeying

At Locksmith Co, we install smart locks from trusted brands such as Yale, Ultion Smart, and Nuki, ensuring they’re secure and compatible with your door type.

8. Secure Windows and Patio Doors

Burglars often target side and rear entry points especially sash windows, French doors, or sliding patio doors.

Security upgrades include:

• Lockable window handles
• Sash jammers for added internal pressure
• Anti-lift devices on sliding doors
• Reinforced glass or window film

Do not rely solely on visual deterrents. Even upper-floor windows should be properly secured if accessible from a fire escape or adjacent roof.

9. Maintain a Clear Entryway and Good Lighting

Visibility is one of the best deterrents against break-ins. Ensure your entrance is well-lit, visible from the street, and free of tall hedges or clutter that could provide cover for intruders.

Security lighting options include:

• Motion-activated floodlights
• LED porch lights on a timer
• Solar-powered pathway lights

Combine lighting with CCTV where possible visible cameras dramatically reduce the chance of a crime being attempted.

10. Carry Out Regular Lock Maintenance

Over time, locks can wear out, seize, or become difficult to use especially in older buildings or properties exposed to harsh weather.

We recommend:

• Lubricating locks every 6 to 12 months with graphite-based lubricant
• Inspecting lock alignment and door hinges regularly
• Replacing worn keys to avoid key breakage
• Scheduling annual security checks with a qualified locksmith

Proactive maintenance prevents lockouts, key snaps, and costly emergency repairs.

11. Change Locks When You Move In

This is one of the most important and underutilised security measures. Whether you’ve bought a home or moved into a rented flat, you never know who might still have a copy of the key previous owners, tenants, cleaners, contractors, or estate agents.

Changing or rekeying your locks when you move in:

• Gives you complete control over property access
• Removes all unauthorised keys in circulation
• Ensures compliance with home insurance requirements

Landlords should also rekey between tenancies to protect new tenants and reduce liability.

12. Work with a Local, Trusted Locksmith

In a lockout, break-in, or urgent repair situation, time is critical. Having a local locksmith you trust ensures a faster response, better service, and lower costs.

At Locksmith Co, we provide:

• 24/7 emergency locksmith services across Central London
• DBS-checked, fully insured technicians
• BS3621 and TS007-compliant installations
• Smart lock and mechanical security solutions
• Fast response times and transparent pricing

We serve homeowners, tenants, landlords, and businesses in Fitzrovia, Soho, Holborn, Tottenham Court Road, and surrounding areas.

Contact Locksmith Co for Central London Security Support

Need a professional locksmith in Central London? Whether you’re upgrading your locks, improving security, or dealing with an emergency, we’re here to help.

Email: contact@locksmithco.co.uk
Website: https://locksmithco.co.uk
Areas served: Soho, Covent Garden, Fitzrovia, Marylebone, Holborn, Camden, and more

Securing your property in Central London requires more than just a good lock it takes a layered approach, professional guidance, and a proactive mindset. By following these tips and working with trusted locksmiths, you can dramatically reduce your risk of burglary, ensure peace of mind, and protect what matters most.

Whether you’re a homeowner, tenant, landlord, or business manager, Locksmith Co is here to provide expert security solutions that match the demands of London living.