Need to find a lock for metal windows in rented flat

samms_samms

I live in a rented flat. The windows and frames are really old (single pane with metal surrounds). The windows do not have a locking mechanism, just a way that you can shut them and a mechanism on the bottom. Both of these are old anyway. The landlord will not replace the windows or put locks on them. I want to put locks on the windows (preferably key operated) so that when we go on holiday we do not have to worry about anyone breaking in. At the moment all they would need to do is smash a window and move the handle down. Are there any locks that can be attached to these types of windows without making holes in the metal/drilling required as obviously this is not an option.

I will try and upload a photo so that people understand what I mean about the windows as they are kind of hard to describe, although it says I can't as I am a new user.

BobQ

OK the landlord will not fit locks.

Have you tried asking if you can do so with permission at your expense?

Or have you asked the landlord to pay for the locks and let you fit them?

I cannot recall any locks that do not involve fitting to frame and do not involve some drilling of the window.

samms_samms

BobQ wrote: »

OK the landlord will not fit locks.

Have you tried asking if you can do so with permission at your expense?

Or have you asked the landlord to pay for the locks and let you fit them?

I cannot recall any locks that do not involve fitting to frame and do not involve some drilling of the window.

Yes, our landlord has said he doesn't want us to make any permanent renovations whatsoever unfortunately.

samms_samms

Or if there is any kind of lock (with key or not) that we can put on the lower mechanism so that it cannot be opened fully (once again, I would post a photo but I am a new user so it's not letting me). How many posts do I need to make before I can post a photo?

ManAtHome

Something like this maybe? https://www.google.co.uk/shopping/product/13126754315861735856?q=metal+frame+window+locks

samms_samms

That might do. Thank you. We have a lot of windows so it needs to be something cost effective. I am just working out how that lock works.

BobQ

Then I would move to somewhere with a better landlord.

I cannot see any sense in a landlord taking this position when you are improving the security of his property. I can understand he might be reluctant to pay.

The only other options are window bars or grills that fit to the reveal or on the external brickwork which are very expensive.

So yes I would give notice as soon as you can and tell the landlord that the reason is his unwillingness to secure the property.

samms_samms

BobQ wrote: »

Then I would move to somewhere with a better landlord.

I cannot see any sense in a landlord taking this position when you are improving the security of his property. I can understand he might be reluctant to pay.

The only other options are window bars or grills that fit to the reveal or on the external brickwork which are very expensive.

So yes I would give notice as soon as you can and tell the landlord that the reason is his unwillingness to secure the property.

We have lived in a lot of different flats and unfortunately a lot of landlords are very particular about making changes, even if they are for the better. They don't think of the property as the tenants home,merely their investment. Anyway, we are happy here otherwise and the rent is very reasonable. Besides, all the other flats we looked at had other similar issues, so this is the best of a bad bunch unfortunately.

BobQ

ManAtHome wrote: »

Something like this maybe? https://www.google.co.uk/shopping/product/13126754315861735856?q=metal+frame+window+locks

Yes this might work, how secure it would be is uncertain.

Could you remove the existing window catch (ie does it have screws or is spot welded etc)? If you can could you replace it with a lockable version. That would not be permanent and you could replace the originals when you left?

samms_samms

BobQ wrote: »

Yes this might work, how secure it would be is uncertain.

Could you remove the existing window catch (ie does it have screws or is spot welded etc)? If you can could you replace it with a lockable version. That would not be permanent and you could replace the originals when you left?

Ah, I am trying to post a photo again but it's still not letting me. Could you post a photo of what you mean please. That would be helpful. Thank you.

russ_c

We used these many years ago.( top item, economy window locks)
http://www.era-security.com/our-products/?/Windows/Additional+Locks+for+Metal+windows

One locks down the arm on the window and the other fits in the slot of the handle and stops it moving, no need to drill