It’s a question most of us in Romsey don’t ask until something goes wrong. Maybe you’ve just moved into a new house, had a key go missing, or your front door has started jamming at the worst possible time. You might be wondering — are my locks actually any good?
As a local locksmith here in Romsey, I’ve seen everything from solid security setups to locks that look secure but barely offer any real protection. So, let’s break down how you can tell whether your locks are doing their job — and what to do if they aren’t.
Not All Locks Are Created Equal
Just because your door locks turn with a key doesn’t mean they’re secure. Some locks are so outdated or badly fitted that they offer little more than a false sense of safety.
A few weeks ago, I was called out to a property in Abbotswood where the homeowner thought they had decent locks. Their house looked modern, but when I checked, the euro cylinder on the front door was a standard model — not anti-snap. With a bit of force, a burglar could have broken in within seconds. Luckily, we upgraded it there and then, and now they’ve got proper anti-snap cylinders fitted that meet current standards.
How Can You Tell If You Have Good Locks?
Let’s look at a few easy checks you can do right now at home.
1. Check for a British Standard Mark
Turn your key and look around the lock face. Do you see BS3621 or TS007 engraved or labelled? That’s a sign your lock meets national security standards. If you don’t see anything, there’s a chance it’s not up to spec — especially if the lock was installed more than a few years ago.
2. Does the Lock Feel Secure?
If your lock feels loose or turns with a bit too much play, it might not be fitted properly. That’s more common than you think, especially in homes around Cupernham and Woodley, where doors may have shifted slightly over time.
3. Is It an Anti-Snap Cylinder?
Most uPVC doors use euro cylinders — and if yours isn’t anti-snap, it’s vulnerable. Lock snapping is a technique burglars use to break into homes quickly and quietly. I always recommend anti-snap locks to Romsey homeowners. They don’t cost the earth, but they make a huge difference.
A Quick Lock Health Check (5 Questions)
Here’s something simple you can run through:
- Were the locks changed when you moved in?
- Have you ever lost keys and not replaced the locks?
- Do your keys sometimes stick or grind?
- Have you had the same locks for 10+ years?
- Can you confirm your locks are British Standard?
If you’re unsure or answered “no” to one or more of these, it’s worth giving us a call. We offer free lock inspections across Romsey — no pressure, no obligation.
Why Lock Quality Matters in Romsey
Romsey’s a mix of old and new — you’ve got period cottages in Braishfield, new builds in Abbotswood, and everything in between. But that also means the quality of locks varies a lot. I’ve been to some gorgeous homes with 30-year-old locks still on the front door. They might have been great back then, but times — and burglary methods — have changed.
One customer in Halterworth called me after their neighbour’s house was broken into. They hadn’t had any issues themselves, but just knowing that the same locks were on both houses was enough for them to take action. That’s the kind of forward thinking that keeps homes safe.
When to Consider Upgrading
You should think about upgrading your locks if:
- You’ve just moved to a new place
- You’ve experienced a break-in or attempted burglary
- You’ve lost keys and aren’t sure who might have them
- The locks feel worn or unreliable
- You want to improve your home’s overall security
Even if nothing’s gone wrong yet, it’s far better to be safe than sorry.
Local Help from Locksmith Romsey
We’re based right here in town, and we’ve helped customers from Romsey town centre to Timsbury, Ashfield, and Shootash. We don’t charge call-out fees, and we’ll give you straightforward advice based on what’s actually best for your property — no upselling, no nonsense.
Sometimes all it takes is a quick adjustment. Other times, a simple lock upgrade could make your home a whole lot safer.
Need a Lock Check? Let’s Chat
If you’re wondering, “Do I have good locks?” — let’s find out. We’ll come out, take a quick look, and give you an honest assessment. No pressure, just peace of mind.
Call Locksmith Romsey Today
Phone: 01794 743033
Website: locksmithromsey.co.uk
Covering: Romsey, Abbotswood, Halterworth, Cupernham, Braishfield, Timsbury, Woodley, and surrounding areas
