This seems to be a more & more common problem, in most cases but by no means all it tends to be bathroom windows , this is generally because of all the windows in the home the bathroom window is normally opened & closed year round, that coupled with the damp environment this often leads to a small build up of corrosion at the end of the shoot bolts ( the parts that lock the window into the frame ) which in turn makes it almost impossible to operate, if too much force is used trying to move the handle you risk breaking the window mechanism, If you have a window that you are finding difficult to lock or you find it is jammed shut, give us a call & we will be able get your window working correctly again in no time

So what does it actually mean when your insurance company asks you if you have a 5 lever British Standard mortice lock lock fitted ( commonly referred to as a Chubb lock )

Well to start with the faceplate of the lock will carry a BS3621 kitemark, the lock itself has instead of 2 or 3 levers ( more common with older mortice locks ) has 5 levers
Now for the British Standard part.
The lock case must have an anti drill hard plate fitted, the lock itself must have a curtain to stop people putting wires inside to try to pick the lock, the levers will also have additional security features like anti pick notches etc

the bolt length ( the part that comes out of the lock & goes into the door frame ) has been increased to 20mm & must go into metal box keep ( this makes it much more resistant to someone trying to jemmy open the door with a crowbar or similar tool.

These are the most obvious changes to older 5 lever locks that may have been fitted in the past.

It may be worth checking with your insurance company as to there specific requirements as there could be nothing worse than them not paying out a claim over something so easily overlooked , also you may find some insurance companies offer a discount to those who have such a lock fitted.

if you are in doubt as to what sort of lock you have fitted or need some advice then feel free to call or email
me

Firstly let me say hello
I am a locksmith based in Warminster Wiltshire
the aim of this blog is to give people a better idea of the company, keep everyone updated with what’s going on in the world of locksmithing & to generally offer advice & help with peoples security questions