An open window can be an invitation to a burglar, even if the window isn’t big enough for someone to fit through, they may be able to access the handle of a larger window or simply just reach in and grab or use a tool to take whatever is in sight.

We Recommend Installing Additional key locking window locks on any wooden windows and consider fitting additional locks on any UPVC windows. This will add to the security and is also what most home insurance companies now ask for. As well as improving security it is also a good safety feature if you small children, especially on the upper floors of flats and houses.

Sash Windows Lock

Normally consisting of two vertically sliding panels or “sashes” they are one of the easiest windows for a burglar to open and are common place in and around the London area and other parts of the UK. As standard they are usually fitted with a surfaced mounted fitch or screw fastener in the centre of the window which means the only thing stopping the windows from passing each other and opening is the small screws that attach the fasteners to the timber.

On many properties the windows are also fitted with single glazed glass panels which are not normally toughened. These can be broken easily meaning a potential thief could reach in and undo the fasteners. We highly recommend installing Additional Key Locking window locks to any sash windows.

Wooden Casement Window Lock

Hinged from the side or top of the window, often fitted with stays and fasteners and more recently key locking versions casement windows are more secure than sash windows but can still be easily opened with the right tools. All accessible windows should be fitted with at least one key locking window lock to comply with most home insurance policies. We recommend installing additional window locks to all wooden casement windows.

UPVC Window Locks

UPVC Windows Most modern upvc windows come with multi-point locking mechanisms and key locking handles fitted as standard, complying with most home insurance guidelines and on the whole are more secure than traditional wooden windows. Although the security is often adequate, the composition of the windows is not as strong as timber and will flex, sometimes enough for the window to be opened even though it’s been locked. As an extra measure we recommend fitting sash jammers to any upvc windows, these are relatively inexpensive and will give an extra layer of protection if the locking mechanism is bypassed.

Window Restrictors

It is tempting to leave a smaller fanlight window open during the summer period, we wouldn’t recommend doing this on any accessible windows while you are out of the property as it could encourage an opportunist thief to attempt a break in. We suggest only leaving windows open that are on the 1st floor or higher and not accessible by a flat roof or drainpipe and make sure a window restrictor is fitted.