Externally accessible doors/windows on 5th floor flat

AROON1

Hi there

We live in a flat on the 5th floor of a block and we have a balcony with doors that open on to it and also a couple of windows in the flat.

When a contents policy asks for locks to be on all external doors and windows, are these classed as externally acessible? Technically they are accessible to someone with a long ladder, but not sure if they would come under the definition. The windows dont have locks on them so not sure if I should list these on the search engines for contents insurance.

thanks
Aroon

huckster

Normally if a policy requires window locks on accessible windows, it means those windows that are accessible by normal means, without a long ladder.

If the flat has a fire escape and this is close to a window, you will need a lock on that window. But on the others, you need not.

You would need a qualifying lock on the door to the flat, as you can walk up to it. If you don't comply with any requirement, you risk not being covered for theft, if access is gained via that door.

Not all policies contain security requirements. It often depends on the postcode (Insurers previous experience can dictate) and/or the amount to be Insured.

If you are unsure about Insurance arrangements, might I suggest that you don't arrange any cover online. Sometimes these requirements are not alway visable on the internet sites and the first time you know about them is when the policy documents are received. If you phone Insurers or brokers, they have to tell you about any requirements.

AROON1

thanks huckster.

we have a qualifying lock on the main door. and no fire escape within the flat itself.

All I am worried about is that there might be a burglary by someone using a long ladder to climb onto the balcony and entering via the balcony doors or climbing to one of the two windows that dont have locks, and then the insurance company claiming that these are "externally accessible" as technically they face outdoors.

But by the sounds of it, it seems that these arent classed as external.

huckster

My way of explaining accessible is. If you can get to a window without needing a ladder, then you need a lock. If you share a balcony or it is easy for a neighbour to jump over to your balcony, I would suggest getting locks.

It is always best to be cautious. Insurers due to the current economic times, are being very strict with the terms/condition, when looking at claims.

AROON1

Someone would definitely need a ladder to get to the windows or balcony as we are very high up.
Ive just checkd some of the quote engines and they class externally accessible windows as ground floor. they didnt mention the definition of an external door (ie if balcony door is included).

thanks for your help huckster.