Home Security Audit Checklist UK¶

A complete walkthrough for auditing your home's security weaknesses and prioritising fixes.

How to Conduct a Home Security Audit¶

Start outside: check that all fences are at least 1.8 m high and garden gates have locking bolts. Inspect external lights - PIR floodlights from brands like Mr Beams (£25 - £55) deter 63 % of opportunist burglars according to ONS data. Move inside: examine every ground-floor door and window. A survey by Yale found that 22 % of UK homeowners have never checked their locks. Look for BSI Kitemark certification on all existing hardware. Note any rotting frames, loose hinges, or single-glazed panels that could be forced.

Prioritising Your Remedial Actions¶

Rank issues by cost, risk, and ease. A five-lever mortice deadlock (ERA Fortress, £35 - £60) is cheap peace of mind. Reinforcing a PVCu door with a security sash jammer (£15 - £25) takes ten minutes. The Home Office recommends tackling the three weakest points first: front door, back door, and ground-floor windows. Document everything in a spreadsheet and set a 90-day deadline for completion. Many insurers, including Aviva and Direct Line, offer 5 - 10 % discounts for audited properties.

Specifications and Comparison¶

Vulnerability	Risk Level	Typical Fix Cost
Front door lock	High	£35 - £120
Back door	High	£25 - £100
Ground-floor windows	Medium	£10 - £80
Garden access	Medium	£15 - £50

FAQ¶

How often should I perform a home security audit?: At least once a year, or after any break-in attempt in your street.
Can I get an insurance discount for a security audit?: Yes - several UK insurers reduce premiums by 5 - 10 % for audited homes.
What tools do I need for a DIY audit?: A torch, notepad, phone camera, and a screwdriver to test loose fittings. For more information see our Burglary Prevention Tips for UK Homes.

Last updated: 2026-05-31.

External Resources¶

For further information consult authority guidelines at the Information Commissioner's Office.