Yes, alarms are a key part of deterring burglars, however it is also important to have other strong security measures such as high security locks as alarms alone will not stop a burglar from breaking into a property.
Burglars will spend time surveying an area. They will target houses that they feel have weak security measures and look easy to break into, and also keep an eye on people’s routines the more predictable the more chance they have of getting in and out without being disturbed.
Yes, if used correctly lock boxes for keys are safe, however if misused they can cause problems.
By re-keying a lock you are changing the lock mechanism so that the old key no longer works in the lock, you will require a new set of keys. So, if all your locks are the same brand you would be able to have them re-keyed so that the same key can open all the locks.
Yes, the Bowley lock is designed so that the pins are shielded, and picks won’t be able to reach them. Only a specially designed key can be used to angle its way into thew pin system inside. This lock is also designed to combat a technique used by burglars called lock bumping.
Changing a door lock can vary in the time it takes, it all depends on the existing lock and the type of door you have. A replacement lock can take between 30 minutes to an hour, and if new locks are being fitted from scratch it can take a bit longer.
It can take anywhere between a few seconds up to 45 minutes for a locksmith to pick a lock. Most locksmiths will be able to pick most locks within 10 minutes however some locks are much trickier than others and can therefore take longer.
Locksmiths will require address ID to prove the property is yours, this can be a driving licence or utility bill.
It is not a crime to break into your own home, however if the police get called you will have to prove it is your own home so make sure you have some address ID handy or you could find you spend the night behind bars until you can prove it. This is because many burglars caught in the act claim it is their own property they are breaking into.
Your average local locksmith will charge £65 per hour, some locksmiths may charge a smaller fee for subsequent hours on the job, and the cost of any parts used will also be added on and quoted in the price.
