How to Secure Your Front Door and Outsmart Burglars in the UK

Your front door is more than just the entrance to your home-it’s also the first line of defence against intruders. If you’ve been thinking about how to secure your front door in the UK, you’re already ahead of the curve. Burglars often target entry points that appear easy to breach, and a poorly secured front door can make their job far too easy. Thankfully, with a few smart upgrades and the right technology, you can significantly boost your front door security and improve your overall home safety.

Let’s break down the best ways to fortify your front door-from the locks to the high-tech add-ons-without turning your home into a fortress.

Start with High-Security Door Locks

If you’re relying on outdated or low-grade locks, it’s time for an upgrade. One of the simplest-and most effective-ways to improve home entryway security is by fitting your front door with high-security locks designed for UK homes.

• Mortice locks: Look for a 5-lever mortice lock that meets BS3621 standards. These are most commonly used on timber doors and are insurance-approved for good reason.
• Nightlatches: A British Standard nightlatch (ideally fitted alongside a mortice lock) offers extra protection. Stick to models that automatically deadlock when the door closes.
• Euro cylinder locks: These are common on uPVC and composite doors, but not all are created equal. Opt for anti-snap cylinders with Sold Secure or TS007 3-star ratings-these are designed to resist one of the most common break-in methods in the UK.

Quick tip: Look for the British Standards Kitemark on any lock you purchase. It’s a trusted sign that the lock has passed rigorous testing under UK external door security standards.

Reinforce the Door and Frame

Even the best locks won’t help much if the rest of your door setup is weak. That’s why reinforcing the physical structure should be your next move.

• Solid-core or reinforced materials: Hollow or flimsy doors are easily kicked in. Choose a solid wood, composite, metal, or fibreglass door if you’re replacing your current one.
• Reinforced door frames: A strong lock needs a strong frame to lock into. Reinforced door frames can handle more force and are typically harder for burglars to pry open.
• Front door reinforcement solutions: You can add extra hardware like a London bar (for the lock side) and a Birmingham bar (for the hinge side) to strengthen vulnerable spots. These cost-effective upgrades make forced entry much more difficult.
• Hinge bolts and lock guards: These provide another layer of defence-particularly useful if your door opens outward or is close to glazing.

Consider Smart Locks and Connected Tech

Smart home security integration isn’t just for the techy among us. In fact, smart locks have made massive strides in recent years-and the convenience factor alone is worth it.

Modern smart locks allow you to:

• Unlock your door remotely via your phone
• Set time-limited access for visitors (ideal for Airbnb hosts or dog walkers)
• Receive notifications and log entries in real time
• Pair with your security cameras for doors to keep an eye on who’s coming and going

Some brands are even offering retrofit models, meaning you can upgrade your existing lock without changing the entire setup-handy if you’re renting or not ready for a full hardware swap.

And while we’re on the subject of cameras, installing a video doorbell or smart entry camera can act as both deterrent and detective. Most burglars won’t hang around if they spot a camera… and if they do, you’ve got a front-row recording of their attempted panto.

To get started with a system that brings all this tech together, check out our expert picks for the best home security systems in the UK for 2025.

Add a Few Final Layers of Security

Once the locks, door and tech are sorted, a few more thoughtful touches will round out your door’s defence system.

• Motion-activated exterior lights: A bright light coming on suddenly can be enough to send most opportunistic intruders running.
• Visible, trimmed landscaping: Overgrown hedges and large pots can give burglars the cover they need. Keep a clean line of sight from the street to your door.
• Toughened or laminated glass: If your door contains glass panels-or has glazing nearby-make sure it’s impact-resistant. Laminated or toughened glass is much harder to break than standard window glass.
• Check all hardware: Are your door handles loose? Is the latch sticking? Make a habit of inspecting your front door every few months-prevention is cheaper than fixing a break-in.

A Strong Start for your Smart Home

Improving your home security doesn’t have to mean installing a full-scale alarm system and CCTV network (though you can if you want to). By focusing on where most break-ins start-the front door-you can stop burglars before they even get through the threshold.

For an extra layer of know-how, take some time to read up on external door security standards and how to choose secure door materials. Or, if you’re feeling inspired, take a look at our guide on how to build a future-proof smart home for even more clever ways to keep your home safe and connected.

From Owen: I’m based up in North Yorkshire, where we might feel a world away from big city break-in stats-but security still matters. I tell my neighbours: think of your front door like your front line. Strengthen it properly and it’ll guard everything behind it. No fancy gadgets needed-just smart choices (and maybe a well-placed camera or two).

Bonus Tip: If you’re upgrading your front door, double-check with your home insurer. Fitting locks and security enhancements that meet recognised British Standards could actually lower your insurance premiums-not a bad result for a weekend’s work.