In the good old days (so they say...) people never locked their doors. But today, with home security an issue in Brisbane, 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?
Try our safe at home quiz at the end of this feature - we'll give you some useful tips, and have some fun at the same time. It'll get you thinking.
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.
Security systems
The Queensland Police have helpful information about locks and security systems. Remember, security systems should be in addition to good physical security and tailored to suit your home. Our directory has listings of security installation experts.
External security
For added security, you can lock entry gates and the electricity meter box with a lock recommended by Energex. The people who read the meters will have a master key and can gain access. These locks are available from master locksmiths. Energex (telephone 13 12 53) can tell you the nearest retailer.
It is also recommended that people have locked mail boxes to prevent theft of personal or valuable documents.
Common sense tips
Keep your front door and windows locked when you are gardening or outside. Would you really hear if someone entered your home while you are mowing the lawn or busy with something?
Some brazen thieves will even enter your house whilst you are there. Police advise people not to confront the burglar but to call ‘000’ (triple zero). Remind your kids, and frequent mobile phone users, that the emergency phone number is triple ZERO, not triple O.
Make sure your garage door is locked securely too as most people's garages hold a lot of valuable equipment and tools. Plus, if the garage or shed isn’t locked, thieves can use your ladders or tools to access your home.
Moving into a new home? Then it would be a good idea to change all the locks. After all, you don’t know how many people may have copies of keys to the original locks. There could be dozens, especially if the property was rented.
Locks aren't just for doors. Its beneficial to have locks on your windows too, as that is a common place for burglars to gain entry to your home.
Try to avoid routine. Always coming and going at the same times will let potential burglars know when the right time is strike at your place. Try to leave or arrive a little later or a little earlier each day.
Other links
Queensland Police have a Home Assist Secure program to ensure older or disabled people have good home security.
The Queensland Police have a lock and home security checklist. It will only take a couple of minutes and it could highlight some of the security issues at your home.
Get involved with Neighbourhood Watch, an initiative where neighbours cooperate to reduce local crime. Find the Neighbourhood Watch region for your home.
