Insurance Guide: Security Requirements

Locks, Alarms, Shutters & Risk Management

Why Security Matters to Insurers

Security is a critical consideration for insurers when quoting or assessing claims for any property — especially:

  • Commercial premises (restaurants, shops, offices)
  • Mixed-use or high-value residential properties
  • Properties with cash, stock, or high-tech equipment onsite

Insurers look at how well a property is protected from burglary, vandalism, and unauthorised access. If security is inadequate or requirements are not met, your policy may be:

  • Invalidated
  • Subject to higher excess
  • Offered with reduced cover for theft or attempted theft

Download the Guide

Basic Security Measures Every Insurer Looks For

  1. Locks (Minimum Standard: BS3621 or Multi-Point)
  • External doors must have:
    • 5-lever mortice deadlocks to BS3621
    • Or a multi-point locking system (common in UPVC/metal doors)
  • Patio/French doors should have anti-lift devices or internal bolts
  • Accessible windows (ground floor or near flat roofs) must have:
    • Key-operated window locks
    • Laminated or toughened glass where required
  1. Alarms
  • Monitored intruder alarm systems (Grade 2 or Grade 3) are required for:
    • High-value stock
    • Cash-handling premises
    • Vacant properties
  • Must be installed and maintained by an NSI or SSAIB-approved company
  1. Shutters, Grilles & Bars
  • Insurers often require:
    • Roller shutters on shop fronts
    • Removable window bars or permanent grilles on rear access windows
  • Especially in:
    • High-crime areas
    • Town centres
    • Businesses with previous break-ins
  1. Safes (Where Cash or Valuables Are Stored Overnight)
  • A safe may be required if:
    • More than £1,000 cash is left on site
    • You store valuables, such as jewellery, electronics, or takings
  • Safes should:
    • Be bolted to floor or wall
    • Be insurance-rated (ask your broker for guidance on cash rating)

Common Risk Profiles (and Security Considerations)

Restaurants / Takeaways

  • Risks: TVs, alcohol, tills, tip jars, weekend cash build-up
  • Security: Window grilles, rear door bolts, alarm with movement sensors, safe for overnight cash

Retail Shops

  • Risks: Electronics, clothing stock, alcohol, cigarettes, till systems
  • Security: Roller shutters, laminated front windows, door contact alarms

Clinics / Offices / Surgeries

  • Risks: Laptops, prescription pads, controlled substances
  • Security: Alarmed locked cabinets, motion detection, key-controlled access

Warehouses / Storage Units

  • Risks: High volume of goods (possibly seasonal stock)
  • Security: CCTV, PIR motion sensors, steel exit doors, racking alarms

What Insurers Typically Require

Sum Insured / Risk Type Minimum Security Requirements
< £50,000 stock BS3621 door locks, window locks
£50k–£150k stock or £2k+ cash Alarm system with police response, grilles, shutter
Cash held overnight (>£1,000) Insurance-rated safe, bolted to concrete
Vacant or unoccupied Steel security doors, alarm, weekly inspection log

What Happens If You Don’t Meet the Security Terms?

  • Your theft cover may be restricted or excluded
  • Insurers may refuse to pay a burglary claim
  • Premiums may increase or be loaded at renewal
  • Claims may be paid at reduced settlement (if terms weren’t met)

Always read your policy endorsements – these are often where security conditions are set out in full.

Risk Management Tips for Business Owners

  • Keep a security maintenance log (alarm checks, shutter repairs, lock inspections)
  • Share your alarm certificate and safe specification with your broker
  • Don’t leave float/cash visible overnight
  • Ensure staff lock rear access and storerooms properly
  • Conduct quarterly reviews of access points and lighting

Bonus: Security Upgrades Can Lower Premiums

Insurers are more willing to offer competitive terms where:

  • Security is above minimum standards
  • Alarm response is monitored
  • CCTV is present and operational

Let us help you present the right risk profile to the market

How Qudos Can Help

We help:

  • Restaurants, retailers, landlords, and warehouses
  • Assess current security and recommend insurer-approved improvements
  • Negotiate terms where security upgrades are underway