Minimum Security – what does it mean when an insurer asks you this question? Will it affect a claim? Could you get caught out along with countless other policyholders who have a theft claim declined?
Many insurers have in their policies some variation on the term ‘Minimum Security Condition’ or ‘Minimum Security Requirement’. Taken literally the term ‘minimum security’ could be interpreted as having very little security at the property at all. However, if you don’t have locks on your windows or good mortise deadlocks on your doors and an insurer asks if you have minimum security, you had better read your policy definitions before confirming that your home qualifies.
Although insurers have slightly different wordings for their ‘Minimum Security Condition’, most will be something along the following lines:
Clause – Security Condition
We will not be liable for loss or damage by theft or attempted theft from the private dwelling unless:
a. The following security devices are fitted and put into operation whenever the private dwelling is left unattended.
1. Either
* A lock approved to BS3621 or
* A mortice deadlock of at least 5 levers or
* A rim automatic deadlatch with a key-locking handle on the inside or
* A key-operated multi-point locking system with at least three fixing points and a lock cylinder with at least five pins to the main entrance door.
2. Key-operated security devices top and bottom in addition to existing locks or a lock to the standard in (a) above to all other external doors except sliding patio doors.
3. A key-operated patio door lock mounted internally on the centre rail(s) or protection to the standard in (b) above to sliding patio doors.
4. Key-operated security devices to all opening windows and skylights on the ground floor and those which are accessible on other floors.
b. All keys are removed from locks and placed out of sight when the private dwelling is left unattended.
c. External windows as described in paragraph 1(d) and all external doors are secured as above where your household has retired for the night except windows in occupied bedrooms which may be left open for ventilation.
Alternative security devices are not acceptable unless we have given our written agreement.
Don’t assume your property complies – you should check your own wording carefully and ensure the locks on the property are adequate and that they are used, particularly if this is a policy requirement.
Common errors:
Back doors fitted with inadequate devices
It was once common practice to put a lower spec (and cheaper) lock to side and back doors. If your lock has only 2 levers, you need to look at immediate replacement. Look out for locks displaying the British Kite Mark to guarantee that the lock complies with the required standards of manufacture and robustness. Some policies will have this as a requirement.
Patio doors with inadequate or no lock
Believe it or not, many older patio doors were not even fitted with locks. Check your door and read your policy requirements. Even with a modern multi point locking door, check to see that all of the sliding locks fit home in the brackets when locking the door. A badly fitted door is still vulnerable.
Window locks missing or not in use
The problem with window locks is the fact that you use windows frequently and there may be a tendency to leave them unlocked. If your policy states that they must be locked and a burglar enters through an unsecured one, you will have no cover. Toilet and bathroom windows are particularly common offenders. Remember, even upstairs accessible windows are subject to the locking requirement.
The consequences of not complying with a ‘minimum security’ condition are severe. If you suffer a break in to your property and you have not complied with the condition the insurer may refuse to pay any of your claim. If a condition such as this is placed on your policy you must comply with every aspect of the wording of the condition.
If you make a specific agreement with an insurer to provide cover even though your property does not comply with their minimum security condition, you must obtain this agreement in writing from them. This needs to be either a letter or email or (preferably) an endorsement added to the schedule of insurance which states the agreement you have. Keep this written agreement safe with your insurance policy documents as you will likely need to produce it to a loss adjuster or insurer representative in the event of a claim.