Are New-Build Homes More Secure?

A new home is not automatically more secure than an older one. Requirements and guidance differ across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, and the installed doorset, windows, hardware, fitting and key control still need to be checked.

Start with the actual property

!New-build external doorset and accessible window being assessed

For a property in England, Approved Document Q provides guidance on security requirements for new dwellings, including easily accessible doors and windows. Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland have their own regulations and guidance, so verify the nation, project date and handover documents rather than applying an England-only document across the UK.

Measures to consider

• Check the developer’s handover documents for the complete doorset and window specifications.
• Confirm whether PAS 24 or another applicable tested solution is identified for the installed assembly.
• Check cylinder size, furniture, alignment and multipoint operation without altering a tested configuration unnecessarily.
• Confirm how authorised keys were controlled during construction and handover.
• Treat Secured by Design accreditation as a separate documented feature rather than assuming every compliant new home has it.

Choose measures only after checking the complete door, window or building element. A product rating describes performance under defined tests; it does not guarantee prevention. Compatibility, fitting, surrounding construction and everyday operation all affect the result.

Standards, escape and insurance

Do not select hardware from the material name alone. Confirm the existing lock type, manufacturer guidance, fixing points and any fire, emergency-escape, accessibility or building-management requirements. Alterations to a certified doorset need an approved compatible specification.

Insurance requirements are policy-specific. Obtain the exact wording from the insurer and verify it directly rather than assuming one standard or product will preserve cover.

Frequently asked questions

Does Approved Document Q apply throughout the UK?

No. Approved Document Q applies in England. Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland have separate regulations and guidance.

Does PAS 24 require a standalone TS007 3-star cylinder?

Not necessarily. PAS 24 assesses an assembly, while TS007 applies to cylinders and related hardware. Check the documented tested configuration.

Should every new-build lock be changed?

No. First verify key control, compatibility and the installed specification; rekeying or replacement may be considered where there is a specific reason.

Planning the next step

Begin with the handover documents and complete installed assemblies, then address only an identified weakness or key-control concern. Contact Kingdom Locksmith to check local service availability and request an itemised quotation.