If you are considering window safety and security you might be wondering ‘Are window restrictors okay for insurance?’ Or ‘Do windows need to be locked for insurance?’ Our experts answer these questions….
Nobody wants to be paying for insurance to then find that their claim is rejected because the wrong types of window locks were fitted. In addition having the right types of window locks can lead to you making big savings on how much you pay for your home insurance. It’s important to be aware of insurance requirements for window locks.
Home insurers reward households that secure their homes with locks that will deter burglars. 25% of burglars use a window to get into a home. It is estimated that 95% of these do so through an unlocked window or a window with poor quality locks. This makes sense because burglars don’t want to get caught, and so they prefer to not break glass. Burglars always look for easy targets and will check if you left any door or window (first and second-floor) unlocked. Next, they will inspect the locks and check if there is any security system installed.
Home insurance providers know this and will offer lower premiums if you have appropriate locks in place. So better security can save you cash, as well as potentially save you from having your house burgled.
‘Are window restrictors okay for insurance?’
When purchasing house insurance you are likely to be asked by the insurance provider to specify which types of locks you have on the windows, especially on downstairs windows. You are likely to be asked whether they are Five-lever mortice deadlocks, a Multi-point locking system or a key operated lock. It is important that you specify the correct type of lock, making a mistake at this point can lead to the insurer not paying out if you are burgled.
Many insurers will insist that all downstairs windows be fitted with key-operated window locks, or some other form of security lock, on all downstairs windows. Of course it is crucial that if you declare to your insurer that you do have locks in place that you use the locks, don’t forget to lock your windows otherwise the insurer might not pay out if you need to make a claim.
Types of Lockable Window Restrictors
There are several key lockable window restrictors that you could choose in order to comply with home insurers requiring key-operated window locks.
The Titan by Jackloc is the most secure of all key operated window locks. The Titan is the only window lock to be awarded Sold Secure status by the Master Locksmiths Association. It’s the strongest and most secure window restrictor in the world, due to its steel folding mechanism. You can use this lock on your windows and specify on your insurance policy application that you have a key operated lock in place.
The Titan can’t be disengaged without the use of a key. It’s tested to withstand a force of 4,800 newtons, or the equivalent of five adult males, which exceeds all standard requirements by nearly 10 times.
Other key operated window locks from Jackloc are the Pro-5, Pro-5 Duo and the Pro-2. All of these window restrictors are okay for insurance where key-operated locks are required.
