Lock It Down - Understanding the Most Popular Door Locks in the UK

Understanding the Most Popular Door Locks in the UK

Every country has different types of doors and locks and security requirements . For someone just arriving in the UK it might come as a surprise that windows don't have burglar bars and doors don't have secondary security trellised doors or alarm systems. Some older properties have very old type locks.

The front door is your first line of defence whether its against a preventing access by all and sundry, kids escaping into the road and much more. Whether you're a homeowner, tenant, or landlord, knowing what kind of locks are fitted — and whether they meet modern standards — can make a huge difference in terms of safety, insurance compliance, and peace of mind.

In the UK, there’s a variety of door locks used across different property types, from Victorian terraces to modern flats. Understanding how each lock works and where it's typically used can help you make informed decisions when it comes to repairs, upgrades, or even tenant safety obligations. Here’s a practical guide to the most popular types of door locks you’ll come across in the UK.

1. Mortice Locks (3-lever and 5-lever)

What are they?

Mortice locks are fitted into the edge of a wooden door and secured with a key. The number of levers in the mechanism determines the level of security.

5-lever mortice locks:

• Best for: External wooden doors (front or back).

• Security rating: High, especially if BS3621 certified.

• Insurance compliant? Yes — many insurance companies require BS3621 locks for valid cover.

• Look for: The British Standard kite mark on the faceplate.
  

3-lever mortice locks:

• Best for: Internal doors (e.g. bedroom or office).

• Security rating: Basic.

• Insurance compliant? No, not suitable for external doors.
  

Tip for landlords: Always ensure that front and back doors are fitted with 5-lever BS3621 mortice locks to remain compliant with tenancy and insurance standards.

2. Night Latch (Commonly Known as a Yale Lock)

Night latches are mounted on the surface of the door and are operated by turning a knob from the inside and a key from the outside.

Key features:

• Common on timber entrance doors, particularly in flats.

• Auto-deadlocking versions enhance security by automatically locking when the door shuts.

• Standard night latches offer basic protection but are better used in combination with a mortice lock.
  

Pros:

• Easy to use for residents.

• Good for shared entrances.

• Keys are not bulky and can be copied

  
  

Cons:

• Vulnerable to "credit card" attacks unless deadlocking.

• Not insurance-approved on their own.

  
  

Note: If your property has a night latch only, it’s wise to add a BS3621 mortice lock for added protection.

3. Euro Cylinder Locks

Where you’ll find them:

Euro cylinder locks are most commonly used in uPVC or composite doors, especially in modern builds and door replacement units. They slot into the door handle mechanism and can easily be replaced.

Types of euro cylinders:

• Standard – Offers basic protection.

• Anti-snap – Protects against a common burglary method known as “lock snapping”.

• Anti-pick / anti-drill – Increased resistance to tampering.

  
  

Security tip:

Burglars often target weak euro cylinders by snapping them in half. Always upgrade to TS007 3-star rated or SS312 Diamond approved cylinders for better security.

Ideal for landlords: Easy to change between tenancies without replacing the whole locking system.

4. Multi-Point Locking Systems

Multi-point locks are common on newer uPVC and composite doors. When the handle is lifted, it engages multiple locking points — usually three or more — along the door frame.

How it works:

• You lift the handle to engage the locks.

• Turn the key to secure all points simultaneously.

  
  

Benefits:

• Excellent for energy efficiency and door alignment.

• Strong resistance against forced entry.

  
  

Common uses:

• Front and back doors in newer builds.

• Patio or French doors.

  
  

Maintenance tip: Ensure the mechanism is regularly lubricated, and never slam the door with the lock engaged — it can damage the internals.

5. Rim Cylinder Locks

Rim cylinders are mounted on the outside of a door and work in conjunction with a night latch on the inside.

Best used for:

• Flats and communal entrances.

• Any door using a night latch setup.

  
  

Benefits:

• Easily swapped out – just remove a couple of screws.

• No need to change the whole lock — just the cylinder.

  
  

Ideal for:

• Landlords who need a quick changeover between tenants.

• Tenants requesting more secure key control.

  
  

Reminder: Rim cylinders alone are not sufficient for external security unless paired with another locking system.

6. Smart Locks

Smart locks are a modern solution for keyless entry — ideal for convenience and remote access. They can be opened via smartphone app, fob, keypad, or even voice command (depending on the model).

Popular among:

• Airbnb and short-let landlords.

• HMO (House in Multiple Occupation) operators.

• Tech-savvy homeowners.

  
  

Key considerations:

• Some models can be retrofitted over an existing euro cylinder or mortice lock.

• Look for insurance-compliant models, ideally used alongside a traditional lock.

• Battery-powered — ensure they’re charged or have a manual backup.

  
  

Pros:

• No need for physical key handovers.

• Track who enters and when (ideal for shared living).

  
  

Cons:

• Not all are British Standard compliant.

• May not be accepted by all insurers unless used with a BS-rated lock.

  
  

Tip: Always double-check compatibility with your insurer before installing a smart lock.

7. Thumb Turn Locks

Thumb turn locks use a key on the outside and a twist mechanism on the inside. They're commonly found on flat entrance doors or communal areas and are designed with fire safety in mind.

Why they matter:

• Enable fast and easy exit without a key — crucial in emergencies.

• Often required by building regs or HMO licensing for escape routes.

  
  

Use case:

• Flats with a single exit route.

• HMOs and buildings with shared hallways.

  
  

Security tip: Ensure these are installed with secure euro cylinders to prevent manipulation from outside.

What to Look for: British Standards and Insurance Compliance

Many insurance companies require certain lock types to honor a policy — particularly on external doors. Here’s what to check:

• BS3621: For mortice and rim locks — this is the gold standard.

• TS007 (Star Rated): For euro cylinders — look for 3 stars for top-tier protection.

• SS312 Diamond: A high-level standard for anti-snap euro cylinders.

If your property doesn’t meet these standards, you may not be covered for theft — even if your doors are locked.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right lock isn’t just about ticking a box — it’s about creating a safe and compliant home. Whether you're letting out a flat, managing a house share, or simply upgrading your door security, it pays to understand what each type of lock offers.

Here’s a quick summary:

Lock Type	Best For	Insurance Compliant?
5-lever Mortice (BS3621)	External wooden doors	✔ Yes
3-lever Mortice	Internal doors	✘ No
Night Latch (Yale)	Flat entrance / secondary lock	✘ (on its own)
Euro Cylinder	uPVC / composite doors	✔ If TS007 or SS312 rated
Multi-Point Locking	Modern front/back doors	✔ If fitted with secure cylinder
Rim Cylinder	Works with Yale-style night latches	✘ (alone)
Smart Locks	HMOs / short lets	✔ If paired with BS lock
Thumb Turn	Flats / HMOs (fire safety)	✔ With secure cylinder

Still unsure? A qualified locksmith or your property manager can offer tailored advice based on the specific doors and risk profile of your property.

Need help upgrading your locks or reviewing your current setup? Gateway Property Hub can guide you through your options, ensure compliance, and connect you with local locksmiths who understand landlord and tenant needs.