Why Security Matters to Insurers
Security is one of the first things insurers assess when quoting or handling a claim.
They need to know how well your premises are protected against:
- Burglary or forced entry
- Vandalism
- Unauthorised access or internal theft
If your security fails to meet policy conditions, your insurance may be:
- Invalidated
- Loaded with a higher excess
- Restricted for theft cover
Applies to:
- Commercial & retail units (shops, restaurants, offices)
- High-value or mixed-use residential buildings
- Sites holding cash, tools, or stock
Minimum Standards Every Insurer Expects
Locks (BS3621 or Multi-Point)
- External doors → 5-lever mortice deadlocks to BS 3621 or multi-point systems on UPVC/metal doors
- Patio/French doors → anti-lift devices or internal bolts
- Ground-floor or accessible windows → key-operated locks and toughened or laminated glass
Intruder Alarms
- Required for premises with high-value stock, cash, or long unoccupancy
- Grade 2 or 3 system, installed by NSI or SSAIB-approved contractor
- Preferably with police or keyholder response
Shutters, Grilles & Bars
- Roller shutters or removable bars for shopfronts & rear doors
- Essential in high-crime zones or town-centre locations
- Often mandatory after a previous break-in
Safes & Secure Storage
- Needed if more than £1,000 cash or valuables remain overnight
- Must be insurance-rated and bolted to floor/wall
- Share safe spec and cash rating with your broker
Typical Risk Profiles & Security Priorities
| Sector | Common Risks | Security Checklist |
| Restaurants / Takeaways | Cash, alcohol, tip jars | Window grilles · rear bolts · movement sensors · rated safe |
| Retail Shops | Electronics, clothing, cigarettes | Roller shutters · laminated glass · door contact alarms |
| Clinics / Offices / Surgeries | Laptops, prescription pads | Key-controlled access · locked cabinets · PIR alarms |
| Warehouses / Storage | Seasonal or bulk stock | CCTV · PIR sensors · steel doors · racking alarms |
Indicative Insurer Requirements
| Risk / Sum Insured | Minimum Security Expected |
| < £50 k stock | BS3621 door & window locks |
| £50 k – £150 k stock or > £2 k cash | Monitored alarm + grilles/shutters |
| Cash held overnight > £1 k | Insurance-rated safe, bolted down |
| Vacant / Unoccupied | Steel security doors · monitored alarm · weekly inspection log |
If You Don’t Meet Security Conditions
- Theft cover may be restricted or void
- Claims refused for non-compliance
- Premiums increased or endorsements applied
- Partial-payouts under “average” clause if terms ignored
Always review your policy endorsements — they detail the exact security obligations.
Practical Risk-Management Tips
- Keep a security maintenance log (alarm tests, shutter repairs, lock checks)
- Provide alarm certificates & safe details to your broker
- Avoid leaving visible cash or equipment overnight
- Train staff to secure rear doors and storerooms
- Review lighting and entry points every quarter
Upgraded Security = Lower Premiums
Insurers reward robust protection:
- Monitored alarms
- Active CCTV
- Steel doors or security film
Even modest upgrades can improve your rating and cut renewal costs.
How SRS Insurance Can Help
We specialise in securing competitive insurance for:
- Restaurants, retailers, clinics & warehouses
- Commercial landlords & portfolio owners
Our team will:
- Assess your current security setup
- Advise on cost-effective upgrades
- Negotiate with underwriters to recognise works in progress
- Ensure you remain compliant and claim-ready