Home Insurance and Window Locks

Thriftynifty_2

Hi Marty

Disregarding the amusing philosophical discussion about when is does a window become a door - which I loved, incidentally - I agree with Lisyloo, you'll probably have to phone your insurer about this.

But, in my unprofessional opinion, so long as you are able to open the window from the inside using the handle alone, then it is not locked - however difficult it would be to open the window from the outside. Presumably, moving the handle releases the internal mortice bolts? The lock in the handle prevents the mortices moving into the released position, and hence locks the window.

Marty06

Thriftynifty wrote: »

Hi Marty

Disregarding the amusing philosophical discussion about when is does a window become a door - which I loved, incidentally - I agree with Lisyloo, you'll probably have to phone your insurer about this.

But, in my unprofessional opinion, so long as you are able to open the window from the inside using the handle alone, then it is not locked - however difficult it would be to open the window from the outside. Presumably, moving the handle releases the internal mortice bolts? The lock in the handle prevents the mortices moving into the released position, and hence locks the window.

Hmm - you're probably right if you put it like that. If the handle locks the windows, then locking the handle is the first step to locking the window. Hence the keys are necessary, even though they don't directly lock the window. Guess I'll have to get the landlord to fix them!

BTW the discussion of when a window is a door reminds me of the old joke my Grandad used to tell about 'when is a tractor not a tractor?' answer - 'when it turns into a field'...or something like that, anyway...

Marty06

I've checked with a few insurers. Several (e.g. the AA) say that the windows have to have key-operated locks on, so the small lock needs to be working. UPVC windows without key-operated locks (e.g. with a button) don't count, so amazingly you'd have to fit extra key-operated locks onto this type of double-glazed window.

Other insurers (e.g. Swiftcover) don't ask about the window locks at all.

Interestingly, I saw on my renewal notice (from AA) that they've added a section that says I must remove every key from windows AND doors before going to bed at night otherwise they won't pay. I bet a lot of people would be caught out by this? And isn't there a case for leaving your key in the door in terms of exit in case of a fire?

I'm still unconvinced about the real security benefit of the small handle window locks (i.e. are they really making it more secure than just the main window locks - the woman I spoke to AA admitted they probably weren't), but I guess you just have to play the game that the insurance cos want you to!

mexicanhat

Agree with previous poster most insurers insist upon 'key' operated window locks, so the small lock that you refer to in the handle must work and be locked for you to comply with the wording(depending on the location of the window and the exact wording).

Locking mechanisms on upvc doors and windows can be confusing. While the locks may appear to engage when you pull down the handle (or pull up the handle in the case of the door ) the locks are not fully engaged until locked with a key. The lock will not be held in the frame with any degree of resistant unless the key is used. It will depend on the type of lock though.

The barrel of the locking handle can be changed relatively easily it is best to approach a locksmith or similar rather than trying a double glazing co

As it is a rented property get written confirmation from your Insurers that the lock as it stands is not sufficent so you can take it up with your landlord