How to Prevent Break-Ins: Expert Locksmith Tips for London Homes

Published 3 November 2025

How to Prevent Break-Ins: Locksmith Tips for London Homes | Premier Security London Locksmiths

At Premier Security London Locksmiths, we understand the importance of comprehensive home security and are committed to helping you protect your family, property, and peace of mind.

🔐 Understanding the Mind of a Burglar: Why Homes Get Targeted

Most burglars are opportunists.

Weak or outdated locks
Obscured entrances
Unsecured windows
No visible alarm system
No signs of occupancy during the day

🚪 Reinforce Entry Points: Start with Your Front Door

Upgrade to BS3621 Locks

London insurance providers often require British Standard BS3621 locks, which include:

Deadlocks with anti-pick and anti-drill features
Hardened steel bolts
Secure key control systems

Premier Security London Locksmiths strongly recommends the use of 5-lever mortice deadlocks for all external doors, especially wooden ones.

Install High-Security Euro Cylinders

If your home has uPVC or composite doors, upgrade to anti-snap, anti-bump, and anti-drill euro cylinders.

These advanced cylinders stop common lock-breaking techniques such as:

Lock snapping
Bumping
Drilling

🪟 Secure All Windows: Don't Ignore the Obvious

Use Window Locks

Every accessible window should have a key-operated lock, especially:

Basement and ground-floor windows
Sash windows
Casement or tilt-and-turn types

Apply Reinforced Glass or Window Films

Windows can also be strengthened with laminated glass or anti-shatter window film, making it harder to break or remove glass panes.

💡 Optimise Outdoor Lighting and Visibility

Install Motion Sensor Lights

Use PIR (Passive Infrared) motion sensors in areas such as:

Driveways
Side passages
Rear gardens

Eliminate Hiding Spots

Cut back overgrown shrubs or hedges near entrances and windows. Maintain clear sightlines from the street to your front door to expose suspicious activity.

📷 Integrate CCTV and Smart Surveillance

Smart CCTV systems can notify you instantly of unusual activity and offer real-time remote access via smartphone.

Best Practices for CCTV in London Homes

Install cameras at all entry and exit points
Place signs to alert intruders of surveillance
Use cloud-based storage to avoid losing footage
Choose cameras with night vision and motion detection

🔒 Alarm Systems: Your 24/7 Digital Watchdog

Choose a Monitored Burglar Alarm

A monitored system connects to:

Your mobile phone
A security provider
The police, via key-holder monitoring

👀 Simulate Occupancy When Away

A house that looks lived-in is much less likely to be targeted.

When you leave for work or holiday:

Use smart lighting systems with timers
Avoid posting travel plans on social media
Have a neighbour collect mail or bins

🧰 Conduct Regular Security Audits

We recommend performing quarterly home security audits.

Check for:

Loose door frames
Worn-out locks or keys
Blocked outdoor lights
Untrimmed bushes or tree branches
Malfunctioning security cameras or alarms

🧑‍🔧 Work with a Reputable London Locksmith

Not all locksmiths are created equal.

Always choose a certified and vetted locksmith who can offer:

Emergency 24/7 lockout assistance
On-site security evaluations
Installation of insurance-approved locks
Advice on smart security systems

Premier Security London Locksmiths are fully licensed, DBS-checked, and available across all London boroughs.

🏠 Advanced Home Security Upgrades Worth Considering

If you want to take things further, consider implementing:

Smart locks with biometric or app access
Integrated home automation systems
Wireless panic buttons
Video doorbells with two-way audio
Steel security doors for rear entry points

🚨 What to Do After a Break-In Attempt

Even if a break-in attempt fails, your home's security has been compromised. You should:

1. Call the police and file a report
2. Avoid touching anything until officers arrive
3. Change or upgrade all locks immediately
4. Install additional deterrents, such as bars or bolts
5. Request a home security consultation

Conclusion: Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

In a city as dynamic as London, proactive security is a necessity.

Burglars evolve, so must your defences. From reinforced locks and smart alarms to high-tech surveillance and simple occupancy tricks, the most secure homes are those that make burglary more trouble than it’s worth.

Let Premier Security London Locksmiths help you take that critical step toward a burglar-proof home.