Do I Have Good Locks? A Quick Guide for Salisbury Homeowners
Let’s be honest—most people in Salisbury don’t think about their door locks until something goes wrong. But especially if you live in an older property, it’s worth asking: Do your locks really offer proper security?
At Locksmith Salisbury, I’ve worked in homes from Bemerton Heath to Laverstock and those hidden cottages near Wilton. Often, what looks like a secure home has old, worn, or vulnerable locks just waiting to fail.
Let’s walk through a few ways to assess the locks on your doors and windows—before they let you down.
Why All Locks Aren’t Created Equal
A lock might “work,” but that doesn’t mean it’s protecting your home. Many older locks were built before today’s common burglary methods became widespread. In fact, I was recently called out to a home near Old Sarum. The owners had just moved in and assumed the existing front door lock was fine. It wasn’t—it was a standard euro cylinder without anti-snap protection, and the fitting was loose. We upgraded it on the spot, and they’ve felt safer ever since.
Learn more about anti-snap lock upgrades in Salisbury and how they work.
How to Check If Your Locks Are Still Up to the Job
You don’t need to be a locksmith to spot warning signs. Start by looking for these simple things.
1. Do You See a British Standard Mark?
Check the faceplate or body of your lock for BS3621 or TS007. These marks mean the lock meets modern safety standards. No mark? Your lock may not be compliant with your home insurance policy.
2. How Does It Feel in Use?
If the key grinds, the lock feels wobbly, or you need to lift the handle just so to get it to lock—that’s a red flag. In areas like Harnham and along Castle Road, timber doors are common, and changes in humidity often affect how the lock operates.
3. What Type of Lock Do You Have?
uPVC doors, especially those in Bishopdown Farm and Hampton Park, tend to use euro cylinder locks. If yours isn't anti-snap, it’s vulnerable to forced entry. Fortunately, upgrading to a more secure version is fast and affordable.
For more about our uPVC lock repair and upgrades, click here.
Quick Lock Health Checklist
Ask yourself:
- Did I change the locks after moving in?
- Have I lost spare keys or handed them out over the years?
- Is my lock more than 10 years old?
- Does it feel loose or stiff when turning the key?
- Is there a visible British Standard mark?
If you answered “yes” to any of the first three—or “no” to the last two—it’s time for a professional check-up.
Why This Is Especially Important in Salisbury
Salisbury is full of beautiful, character-filled homes—but many come with outdated or undersized locks. I’ve worked on places in Milford Hill and St Mark’s where the front door latches were over 30 years old. Charming? Yes. Effective against burglars? Not so much.
Today’s intruders don’t always need fancy tools. A simple screwdriver can break into the average door in seconds—unless you’ve got the right lock in place.
Concerned after a break-in nearby? See our Emergency Locksmith Service page for immediate help.
When Should You Upgrade Your Locks?
There’s no “perfect” time, but here are a few key moments to consider it:
- You’ve recently moved home
- There’s been a break-in nearby
- You’ve lost your keys or had them stolen
- Your lock isn’t compliant with British Standards
- You want improved insurance cover or peace of mind
Lock upgrades don’t have to be expensive or disruptive—but leaving weak locks in place can be a costly mistake.
Call a Local Locksmith Who Knows Salisbury
At Locksmith Salisbury, we help homeowners all across the area—from Quidhampton and Amesbury, to Downton, Harnham, and the Woodford Valley. You won’t deal with a call centre or national chain—you’ll speak directly with a local locksmith who takes pride in their work.
We don’t charge call-out fees, and we’re happy to offer honest advice—even if you just want a second opinion.
Book a Free Lock Check – No Obligation
If you’re even slightly unsure about your home’s locks, get in touch. We’ll arrange a visit, take a proper look, and let you know if any improvements are worth making. No pressure. No hard sell. Just a local tradesman who’s here to help.
Phone: 01722 730034
Website: www.locksmithsalisbury.co.uk
Areas served: Salisbury, Wilton, Laverstock, Bemerton Heath, Bishopdown, Old Sarum, Harnham, Quidhampton, and surrounding villages
