How do I know if my lock is a 5 lever mortice deadlock?
07/10/2022
When comparing quotes, always answer lock questions accurately – misrepresenting your home’s security is one of the quickest ways to invalidate cover.
Can I get a 5 lever mortice deadlock installed?
Yes, and it’s a relatively quick job for a locksmith. A standard 5 lever mortice deadlock installation on a timber door takes under an hour and costs £60 to £150 in labour, plus £50 to £150 for the lock itself.
The process usually involves:
- Measuring the existing lock mortice
- Choosing a replacement of the correct size and British Standard rating
- Chiselling the door if the new lock body is larger (sometimes needed)
- Fitting the new lock and adjusting the strike plate on the frame
- Testing the key operation and bolt travel
DIY installation is possible if you’re comfortable with basic carpentry, but for insurance purposes it’s usually safer to use a qualified locksmith. A certificate or receipt from a Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) member is sometimes requested by insurers as proof of standard.
Does my home insurance need a BS3621 lock?
Most UK home insurers require a BS3621-approved mortice deadlock on front and back doors, especially for full contents cover. BS3621 is the British Standard that certifies a lock has been tested against common attack methods like drilling, picking, and forced entry.
If you don’t have a BS3621 lock, your insurer may still cover you, but with conditions:
- Your premium may be higher.
- Your contents cover could be reduced.
- A claim involving forced entry through an unapproved door lock may be rejected entirely.
The easiest way to check is to look at the faceplate of the lock (the metal strip visible when the door is open). Most BS3621 locks have the British Standard Kitemark stamped on them.
What front door locks do UK home insurers accept?
Insurers want to see a lock that makes your door hard to force open. The main types they typically accept include:
- 5 lever mortice deadlock (BS3621) – the standard for timber front and back doors
- Multi-point locking systems – common on UPVC and composite doors, with hooks or bolts that lock into the frame at several points
- Rim automatic deadlatch (BS3621) – an upgraded Yale-style lock that can be deadlocked with a key
- Cylinder locks (TS007 3-star rated) – for UPVC and composite doors, these resist snapping, bumping, and picking
Night latches (basic Yale locks) on their own are rarely accepted by insurers unless paired with a mortice deadlock on the same door. If you’re unsure what’s on your door, take a photo of the lock faceplate and call your insurer before buying a policy.
How much does it cost to fit a new mortice lock?
A new BS3621 mortice deadlock typically costs £50 to £150 for the lock itself, plus £60 to £100 for a locksmith to fit it. The full job usually takes under an hour if the door doesn’t need modifying.
If your door needs chiselling to fit a larger lock body, or if you’re replacing a non-standard lock, costs can rise to £200-300. Always get a quote before the work starts.
Fitting a BS3621 lock can actually reduce your home insurance premium. Some insurers offer a discount of 5-10% for approved door locks, which can offset the cost of installation within a few years.
You might also need
When considering home security and insurance, you may also want to look at:
- Buildings insurance – covers the structure of your home, including doors, locks, and permanent fixtures.
- Contents insurance – protects your personal belongings against theft and damage.
Quotezone can help you find home insurance that matches your door lock setup. Compare home insurance quotes from over 40 UK providers.
This article is intended as generic information only and is not intended to apply to anybody’s specific circumstances, demands or needs. The views expressed are not intended to provide any financial service or to give any recommendation or advice. Products and services are only mentioned for illustrative rather than promotional purposes.
If the lock turns out not to meet BS 3621, upgrading is usually straightforward – most modern replacements fit the same mortice cutout. Your insurer may offer a small discount on your premium once the upgrade is done.
Why do home insurers care about locks?
Home insurers use lock type to assess risk. Better locks mean fewer break-in claims, which means lower costs for the insurer – and usually lower premiums for you.
Claims data from UK insurers shows that properties with BS 3621 locks have notably lower burglary claim rates than those with standard night latches or older locks. Insurers translate this risk data into policy pricing and conditions.
Most UK home insurance policies now include a “minimum security” clause that specifies the locks your doors and windows must have. If you don’t meet that standard and you’re burgled, the insurer may:
- Reduce the payout
- Reject the claim entirely
- Not renew your policy at the end of the term
When comparing quotes, always answer lock questions accurately – misrepresenting your home’s security is one of the quickest ways to invalidate cover.
Can I get a 5 lever mortice deadlock installed?
Yes, and it’s a relatively quick job for a locksmith. A standard 5 lever mortice deadlock installation on a timber door takes under an hour and costs £60 to £150 in labour, plus £50 to £150 for the lock itself.
The process usually involves:
- Measuring the existing lock mortice
- Choosing a replacement of the correct size and British Standard rating
- Chiselling the door if the new lock body is larger (sometimes needed)
- Fitting the new lock and adjusting the strike plate on the frame
- Testing the key operation and bolt travel
DIY installation is possible if you’re comfortable with basic carpentry, but for insurance purposes it’s usually safer to use a qualified locksmith. A certificate or receipt from a Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) member is sometimes requested by insurers as proof of standard.
Does my home insurance need a BS3621 lock?
Most UK home insurers require a BS3621-approved mortice deadlock on front and back doors, especially for full contents cover. BS3621 is the British Standard that certifies a lock has been tested against common attack methods like drilling, picking, and forced entry.
If you don’t have a BS3621 lock, your insurer may still cover you, but with conditions:
- Your premium may be higher.
- Your contents cover could be reduced.
- A claim involving forced entry through an unapproved door lock may be rejected entirely.
The easiest way to check is to look at the faceplate of the lock (the metal strip visible when the door is open). Most BS3621 locks have the British Standard Kitemark stamped on them.
What front door locks do UK home insurers accept?
Insurers want to see a lock that makes your door hard to force open. The main types they typically accept include:
- 5 lever mortice deadlock (BS3621) – the standard for timber front and back doors
- Multi-point locking systems – common on UPVC and composite doors, with hooks or bolts that lock into the frame at several points
- Rim automatic deadlatch (BS3621) – an upgraded Yale-style lock that can be deadlocked with a key
- Cylinder locks (TS007 3-star rated) – for UPVC and composite doors, these resist snapping, bumping, and picking
Night latches (basic Yale locks) on their own are rarely accepted by insurers unless paired with a mortice deadlock on the same door. If you’re unsure what’s on your door, take a photo of the lock faceplate and call your insurer before buying a policy.
How much does it cost to fit a new mortice lock?
A new BS3621 mortice deadlock typically costs £50 to £150 for the lock itself, plus £60 to £100 for a locksmith to fit it. The full job usually takes under an hour if the door doesn’t need modifying.
If your door needs chiselling to fit a larger lock body, or if you’re replacing a non-standard lock, costs can rise to £200-300. Always get a quote before the work starts.
Fitting a BS3621 lock can actually reduce your home insurance premium. Some insurers offer a discount of 5-10% for approved door locks, which can offset the cost of installation within a few years.
You might also need
When considering home security and insurance, you may also want to look at:
- Buildings insurance – covers the structure of your home, including doors, locks, and permanent fixtures.
- Contents insurance – protects your personal belongings against theft and damage.
Quotezone can help you find home insurance that matches your door lock setup. Compare home insurance quotes from over 40 UK providers.
This article is intended as generic information only and is not intended to apply to anybody’s specific circumstances, demands or needs. The views expressed are not intended to provide any financial service or to give any recommendation or advice. Products and services are only mentioned for illustrative rather than promotional purposes.
This is why most UK insurers ask about lock type at quote stage.
How do I know if my door lock conforms to BS3621?
Open the door and look at the faceplate of the lock – the metal strip visible along the edge of the door when it’s open. If your lock conforms to BS 3621, you’ll usually see:
- The British Standard Kitemark symbol (a heart-shaped outline)
- The text “BS 3621” or “BS3621”
- The manufacturer’s name or product code
If the markings are worn, painted over, or missing entirely, you can check the model code in the manufacturer’s product catalogue or call a locksmith to inspect it. A typical locksmith inspection costs £40 to £80 and takes under an hour.
If the lock turns out not to meet BS 3621, upgrading is usually straightforward – most modern replacements fit the same mortice cutout. Your insurer may offer a small discount on your premium once the upgrade is done.
Why do home insurers care about locks?
Home insurers use lock type to assess risk. Better locks mean fewer break-in claims, which means lower costs for the insurer – and usually lower premiums for you.
Claims data from UK insurers shows that properties with BS 3621 locks have notably lower burglary claim rates than those with standard night latches or older locks. Insurers translate this risk data into policy pricing and conditions.
Most UK home insurance policies now include a “minimum security” clause that specifies the locks your doors and windows must have. If you don’t meet that standard and you’re burgled, the insurer may:
- Reduce the payout
- Reject the claim entirely
- Not renew your policy at the end of the term
When comparing quotes, always answer lock questions accurately – misrepresenting your home’s security is one of the quickest ways to invalidate cover.
Can I get a 5 lever mortice deadlock installed?
Yes, and it’s a relatively quick job for a locksmith. A standard 5 lever mortice deadlock installation on a timber door takes under an hour and costs £60 to £150 in labour, plus £50 to £150 for the lock itself.
The process usually involves:
- Measuring the existing lock mortice
- Choosing a replacement of the correct size and British Standard rating
- Chiselling the door if the new lock body is larger (sometimes needed)
- Fitting the new lock and adjusting the strike plate on the frame
- Testing the key operation and bolt travel
DIY installation is possible if you’re comfortable with basic carpentry, but for insurance purposes it’s usually safer to use a qualified locksmith. A certificate or receipt from a Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) member is sometimes requested by insurers as proof of standard.
Does my home insurance need a BS3621 lock?
Most UK home insurers require a BS3621-approved mortice deadlock on front and back doors, especially for full contents cover. BS3621 is the British Standard that certifies a lock has been tested against common attack methods like drilling, picking, and forced entry.
If you don’t have a BS3621 lock, your insurer may still cover you, but with conditions:
- Your premium may be higher.
- Your contents cover could be reduced.
- A claim involving forced entry through an unapproved door lock may be rejected entirely.
The easiest way to check is to look at the faceplate of the lock (the metal strip visible when the door is open). Most BS3621 locks have the British Standard Kitemark stamped on them.
What front door locks do UK home insurers accept?
Insurers want to see a lock that makes your door hard to force open. The main types they typically accept include:
- 5 lever mortice deadlock (BS3621) – the standard for timber front and back doors
- Multi-point locking systems – common on UPVC and composite doors, with hooks or bolts that lock into the frame at several points
- Rim automatic deadlatch (BS3621) – an upgraded Yale-style lock that can be deadlocked with a key
- Cylinder locks (TS007 3-star rated) – for UPVC and composite doors, these resist snapping, bumping, and picking
Night latches (basic Yale locks) on their own are rarely accepted by insurers unless paired with a mortice deadlock on the same door. If you’re unsure what’s on your door, take a photo of the lock faceplate and call your insurer before buying a policy.
How much does it cost to fit a new mortice lock?
A new BS3621 mortice deadlock typically costs £50 to £150 for the lock itself, plus £60 to £100 for a locksmith to fit it. The full job usually takes under an hour if the door doesn’t need modifying.
If your door needs chiselling to fit a larger lock body, or if you’re replacing a non-standard lock, costs can rise to £200-300. Always get a quote before the work starts.
Fitting a BS3621 lock can actually reduce your home insurance premium. Some insurers offer a discount of 5-10% for approved door locks, which can offset the cost of installation within a few years.
You might also need
When considering home security and insurance, you may also want to look at:
- Buildings insurance – covers the structure of your home, including doors, locks, and permanent fixtures.
- Contents insurance – protects your personal belongings against theft and damage.
Quotezone can help you find home insurance that matches your door lock setup. Compare home insurance quotes from over 40 UK providers.
This article is intended as generic information only and is not intended to apply to anybody’s specific circumstances, demands or needs. The views expressed are not intended to provide any financial service or to give any recommendation or advice. Products and services are only mentioned for illustrative rather than promotional purposes.
A 5 lever mortice deadlock combines both: it’s a mortice-style lock with a deadlocking mechanism. That combination – hidden body plus non-spring bolt – is why insurers rate it highly.
Can thieves pick a 5 lever mortice lock?
Picking a 5 lever mortice lock is possible in theory, but in practice very difficult – especially if the lock meets British Standard BS 3621.
To pick the lock, a thief would need to align all five levers to the exact height the key sets, in the correct order, using specialist tools. This takes significant skill and time, and most opportunist burglars don’t try. Statistics from UK police forces suggest fewer than 1 in 20 residential burglaries involve lock picking – the vast majority involve smashed windows, forced doors, or unlocked entries.
BS 3621 locks go further by being tested against:
- Drilling through the lock body
- Sawing through the bolt
- Picking with standard burglary tools
This is why most UK insurers ask about lock type at quote stage.
How do I know if my door lock conforms to BS3621?
Open the door and look at the faceplate of the lock – the metal strip visible along the edge of the door when it’s open. If your lock conforms to BS 3621, you’ll usually see:
- The British Standard Kitemark symbol (a heart-shaped outline)
- The text “BS 3621” or “BS3621”
- The manufacturer’s name or product code
If the markings are worn, painted over, or missing entirely, you can check the model code in the manufacturer’s product catalogue or call a locksmith to inspect it. A typical locksmith inspection costs £40 to £80 and takes under an hour.
If the lock turns out not to meet BS 3621, upgrading is usually straightforward – most modern replacements fit the same mortice cutout. Your insurer may offer a small discount on your premium once the upgrade is done.
Why do home insurers care about locks?
Home insurers use lock type to assess risk. Better locks mean fewer break-in claims, which means lower costs for the insurer – and usually lower premiums for you.
Claims data from UK insurers shows that properties with BS 3621 locks have notably lower burglary claim rates than those with standard night latches or older locks. Insurers translate this risk data into policy pricing and conditions.
Most UK home insurance policies now include a “minimum security” clause that specifies the locks your doors and windows must have. If you don’t meet that standard and you’re burgled, the insurer may:
- Reduce the payout
- Reject the claim entirely
- Not renew your policy at the end of the term
When comparing quotes, always answer lock questions accurately – misrepresenting your home’s security is one of the quickest ways to invalidate cover.
Can I get a 5 lever mortice deadlock installed?
Yes, and it’s a relatively quick job for a locksmith. A standard 5 lever mortice deadlock installation on a timber door takes under an hour and costs £60 to £150 in labour, plus £50 to £150 for the lock itself.
The process usually involves:
- Measuring the existing lock mortice
- Choosing a replacement of the correct size and British Standard rating
- Chiselling the door if the new lock body is larger (sometimes needed)
- Fitting the new lock and adjusting the strike plate on the frame
- Testing the key operation and bolt travel
DIY installation is possible if you’re comfortable with basic carpentry, but for insurance purposes it’s usually safer to use a qualified locksmith. A certificate or receipt from a Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) member is sometimes requested by insurers as proof of standard.
Does my home insurance need a BS3621 lock?
Most UK home insurers require a BS3621-approved mortice deadlock on front and back doors, especially for full contents cover. BS3621 is the British Standard that certifies a lock has been tested against common attack methods like drilling, picking, and forced entry.
If you don’t have a BS3621 lock, your insurer may still cover you, but with conditions:
- Your premium may be higher.
- Your contents cover could be reduced.
- A claim involving forced entry through an unapproved door lock may be rejected entirely.
The easiest way to check is to look at the faceplate of the lock (the metal strip visible when the door is open). Most BS3621 locks have the British Standard Kitemark stamped on them.
What front door locks do UK home insurers accept?
Insurers want to see a lock that makes your door hard to force open. The main types they typically accept include:
- 5 lever mortice deadlock (BS3621) – the standard for timber front and back doors
- Multi-point locking systems – common on UPVC and composite doors, with hooks or bolts that lock into the frame at several points
- Rim automatic deadlatch (BS3621) – an upgraded Yale-style lock that can be deadlocked with a key
- Cylinder locks (TS007 3-star rated) – for UPVC and composite doors, these resist snapping, bumping, and picking
Night latches (basic Yale locks) on their own are rarely accepted by insurers unless paired with a mortice deadlock on the same door. If you’re unsure what’s on your door, take a photo of the lock faceplate and call your insurer before buying a policy.
How much does it cost to fit a new mortice lock?
A new BS3621 mortice deadlock typically costs £50 to £150 for the lock itself, plus £60 to £100 for a locksmith to fit it. The full job usually takes under an hour if the door doesn’t need modifying.
If your door needs chiselling to fit a larger lock body, or if you’re replacing a non-standard lock, costs can rise to £200-300. Always get a quote before the work starts.
Fitting a BS3621 lock can actually reduce your home insurance premium. Some insurers offer a discount of 5-10% for approved door locks, which can offset the cost of installation within a few years.
You might also need
When considering home security and insurance, you may also want to look at:
- Buildings insurance – covers the structure of your home, including doors, locks, and permanent fixtures.
- Contents insurance – protects your personal belongings against theft and damage.
Quotezone can help you find home insurance that matches your door lock setup. Compare home insurance quotes from over 40 UK providers.
This article is intended as generic information only and is not intended to apply to anybody’s specific circumstances, demands or needs. The views expressed are not intended to provide any financial service or to give any recommendation or advice. Products and services are only mentioned for illustrative rather than promotional purposes.
Some of the questions that an insurance provider asks us about our home security are impossible to answer. We simply don’t know. One of the questions that frequently stumps homeowners trying to find home insurance, is what front door lock type their home has. We answer how you identify an insurance-approved door lock below. We investigated how you can identify a 5 lever mortice lock, so you can accurately report that to your insurance company. Here’s everything you need to know about locks.
What’s a 5 lever mortice deadlock?
A 5 lever mortice deadlock is a type of door lock fitted into the body of the door itself, rather than attached to the surface. It uses five internal levers that must all be raised to the correct height by the key before the bolt can move.
The “deadlock” part means the bolt can’t be pushed back without a key – unlike a latch, which snaps open when pressed. This makes it much harder for a burglar to force, pick, or reach through a broken window to open from the inside.
5 lever mortice deadlocks are the standard lock fitted to most timber front and back doors across the UK, and are the baseline security level most home insurers expect. When they meet British Standard BS 3621, they’re recognised as high-security locks.
How to identify a 5 lever mortice lock?
The manufacturer inscribes the number of levers in each lock on the side of it. 5 lever locks are often fitted to wooden doors. They require a key to open and can lock from inside or outside the building. The lock on a 5 lever mortice deadlock sits within the door, not over the door or frame. This is how you identify a 5 lever mortice lock.
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We search up to 40 home insurance providers to save you hassle and money
Is there a difference between a mortice lock and a deadlock?
Yes – “mortice lock” and “deadlock” describe two different things, even though they often overlap.
Mortice refers to the lock’s style – it’s fitted inside a cutout (the mortice) in the edge of the door. The opposite is a rim lock, which is mounted on the surface of the door.
Deadlock refers to the locking mechanism – the bolt only moves when you use the key, and stays locked in place. The opposite is a latch, which springs open when the door is pushed closed.
A 5 lever mortice deadlock combines both: it’s a mortice-style lock with a deadlocking mechanism. That combination – hidden body plus non-spring bolt – is why insurers rate it highly.
Can thieves pick a 5 lever mortice lock?
Picking a 5 lever mortice lock is possible in theory, but in practice very difficult – especially if the lock meets British Standard BS 3621.
To pick the lock, a thief would need to align all five levers to the exact height the key sets, in the correct order, using specialist tools. This takes significant skill and time, and most opportunist burglars don’t try. Statistics from UK police forces suggest fewer than 1 in 20 residential burglaries involve lock picking – the vast majority involve smashed windows, forced doors, or unlocked entries.
BS 3621 locks go further by being tested against:
- Drilling through the lock body
- Sawing through the bolt
- Picking with standard burglary tools
This is why most UK insurers ask about lock type at quote stage.
How do I know if my door lock conforms to BS3621?
Open the door and look at the faceplate of the lock – the metal strip visible along the edge of the door when it’s open. If your lock conforms to BS 3621, you’ll usually see:
- The British Standard Kitemark symbol (a heart-shaped outline)
- The text “BS 3621” or “BS3621”
- The manufacturer’s name or product code
If the markings are worn, painted over, or missing entirely, you can check the model code in the manufacturer’s product catalogue or call a locksmith to inspect it. A typical locksmith inspection costs £40 to £80 and takes under an hour.
If the lock turns out not to meet BS 3621, upgrading is usually straightforward – most modern replacements fit the same mortice cutout. Your insurer may offer a small discount on your premium once the upgrade is done.
Why do home insurers care about locks?
Home insurers use lock type to assess risk. Better locks mean fewer break-in claims, which means lower costs for the insurer – and usually lower premiums for you.
Claims data from UK insurers shows that properties with BS 3621 locks have notably lower burglary claim rates than those with standard night latches or older locks. Insurers translate this risk data into policy pricing and conditions.
Most UK home insurance policies now include a “minimum security” clause that specifies the locks your doors and windows must have. If you don’t meet that standard and you’re burgled, the insurer may:
- Reduce the payout
- Reject the claim entirely
- Not renew your policy at the end of the term
When comparing quotes, always answer lock questions accurately – misrepresenting your home’s security is one of the quickest ways to invalidate cover.
Can I get a 5 lever mortice deadlock installed?
Yes, and it’s a relatively quick job for a locksmith. A standard 5 lever mortice deadlock installation on a timber door takes under an hour and costs £60 to £150 in labour, plus £50 to £150 for the lock itself.
The process usually involves:
- Measuring the existing lock mortice
- Choosing a replacement of the correct size and British Standard rating
- Chiselling the door if the new lock body is larger (sometimes needed)
- Fitting the new lock and adjusting the strike plate on the frame
- Testing the key operation and bolt travel
DIY installation is possible if you’re comfortable with basic carpentry, but for insurance purposes it’s usually safer to use a qualified locksmith. A certificate or receipt from a Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) member is sometimes requested by insurers as proof of standard.
Does my home insurance need a BS3621 lock?
Most UK home insurers require a BS3621-approved mortice deadlock on front and back doors, especially for full contents cover. BS3621 is the British Standard that certifies a lock has been tested against common attack methods like drilling, picking, and forced entry.
If you don’t have a BS3621 lock, your insurer may still cover you, but with conditions:
- Your premium may be higher.
- Your contents cover could be reduced.
- A claim involving forced entry through an unapproved door lock may be rejected entirely.
The easiest way to check is to look at the faceplate of the lock (the metal strip visible when the door is open). Most BS3621 locks have the British Standard Kitemark stamped on them.
What front door locks do UK home insurers accept?
Insurers want to see a lock that makes your door hard to force open. The main types they typically accept include:
- 5 lever mortice deadlock (BS3621) – the standard for timber front and back doors
- Multi-point locking systems – common on UPVC and composite doors, with hooks or bolts that lock into the frame at several points
- Rim automatic deadlatch (BS3621) – an upgraded Yale-style lock that can be deadlocked with a key
- Cylinder locks (TS007 3-star rated) – for UPVC and composite doors, these resist snapping, bumping, and picking
Night latches (basic Yale locks) on their own are rarely accepted by insurers unless paired with a mortice deadlock on the same door. If you’re unsure what’s on your door, take a photo of the lock faceplate and call your insurer before buying a policy.
How much does it cost to fit a new mortice lock?
A new BS3621 mortice deadlock typically costs £50 to £150 for the lock itself, plus £60 to £100 for a locksmith to fit it. The full job usually takes under an hour if the door doesn’t need modifying.
If your door needs chiselling to fit a larger lock body, or if you’re replacing a non-standard lock, costs can rise to £200-300. Always get a quote before the work starts.
Fitting a BS3621 lock can actually reduce your home insurance premium. Some insurers offer a discount of 5-10% for approved door locks, which can offset the cost of installation within a few years.
You might also need
When considering home security and insurance, you may also want to look at:
- Buildings insurance – covers the structure of your home, including doors, locks, and permanent fixtures.
- Contents insurance – protects your personal belongings against theft and damage.
Quotezone can help you find home insurance that matches your door lock setup. Compare home insurance quotes from over 40 UK providers.
This article is intended as generic information only and is not intended to apply to anybody’s specific circumstances, demands or needs. The views expressed are not intended to provide any financial service or to give any recommendation or advice. Products and services are only mentioned for illustrative rather than promotional purposes.