FAQs
Here you’ll find answers to common questions about our business and security/locks in general. If you can’t find the answer to your question don’t hesitate to give us a call on 07813 643344.
Locksmiths install, maintain, service and repair electronic and mechanical security devices such as keys, locks, safes, and related hardware. St Piran’s Locksmiths also provide these services in relation to vehicles.
St Piran’s Locksmiths cover all of Cornwall; but bear in mind that due to our being based in the West of what is an elongated coastal county there are areas that will take us upwards of an hour to reach.
Relying solely on a Yale type rim latch is asking for trouble and will most likely nullify any home insurance claim you make in the unfortunate event that your house is burglarised. A second lock – preferably a 5-lever mortice deadlock, would, in most situations, be a highly advisable addition, although a rim automatic deadlock will satisfy 99% of insurance companies. Whichever option you choose, it must conform to British Standard 3621 or the equivalent European Standard EN12209.
The correct approach to front door security when a property is occupied varies according to who you speak to. Fire Safety Officers will advise that any mortice deadbolt should not be engaged, as locating and engaging the key could compromise evacuation. Crime Prevention Officers on the other hand may suggest that a Yale type rim latch on its own provides insufficient security and that the extra measure of engaging a mortice deadbolt or similar is advisable. Consider also that curious young children can make short work of a rim latch but are much less likely to circumnavigate a deadbolt type lock! If fire safety is your priority, fitting draw bolts to the top and/or bottom of the door is a possible compromise. Insurance companies differ in their policies towards burglaries of occupied property. Some are more generous and will pay out even if a door was unlocked. Others are less lenient. Check your policy carefully!
Letterboxes can be a security risk if they a) allow potential thieves to obtain nearby objects such as keys or post directly or b) they enable manipulation of a vulnerable lock (e.g. one with keys in it) from the inside. Letterboxes should be fitted at least 40 cm from the door lock – but NEVER to the bottom rail of the door. The introduction of a letter basket will provide an additional layer of protection, but due to their fragility a metal internal cover plate is a more solid alternative. And it’s worth bearing in mind that letter baskets can make stealing post easier, which is why some people remove the bottom (although that’s not the best idea if you’re in possession of a dog that likes eating your mail!). Another option of course is to do away with the letterbox in your door and fit and external letterbox.
Posting anything on social media that tells people you’re away is a risk. To reduce this risk you should consider waiting until your trip is over before posting and/or ensuring that your posts are only shared with people you trust.
Ask a neighbour or family member to keep an eye on your property. You could also ask for them to park their car in your driveway, if you have one.
Invest in one of the many, increasinlgy sophisticated security devices that use light to feign occupancy (i.e. switching lights on and off and even replicating the light patterns emitted by a television).
If you’re away for a prolongued period consider having Royal Mail withhold your mail until your return.
Probably! In fact, there’s a school of thought that changing your locks when you move into a new house should be a requirement of your insurance.
You have no idea who has a key, whether one was left with a neighbour, ex-partner, decorator or even left under a stone in the flowerbed!
Food for thought!