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MLA highlight reasons
why Locksmiths should
target new homeowners
»»ACCORDING TO RECENT RESEARCH,
moving up, or onto the property ladder
is one of life’s most nerve wracking
experiences. Buying or selling a property
was recently listed as more stressful than
divorce and redundancy*. While you may
have a large ‘to-do’ list already, ensuring
your property is safe and secure should
always be made a top priority.
Here, Dr Steffan George, development
director of the Master Locksmiths
Association (MLA), the leading trade
association for the locksmithing
profession, helps to take the stress out of
securing a new property.
A new property may be one of the
most expensive assets ever owned, which
makes securing a new home all the more
important. Whether a homeowner or
landlord, ensuring the property is safe
and secure can not only add value to
the property, but can save money and
heartache in the long term.
Statistics show that over two thirds of
new home owners* do not change the
locks on their property when moving in,
despite the risk that previous residents,
their friends and family, or even
tradespeople may still have keys to their
home.
Changing the locks should therefore
be a top priority after moving in. The
MLA always advise contacting an
approved MLA locksmith to install a
patented lock system. For Landlords,
these systems prevent keys being copied
without proof of ownership, therefore
restricting the number of people with
access to the property.
While property experts recommend
conducting a building survey, it is also
worth considering having a locksmith
perform a security assessment. This
review will ensure the correct locks
on windows and doors, keeping the
property safe and also meeting specific
insurance requirements.
Locksmith may also identify
any vulnerable areas that require
maintenance. Many members of
the MLA will complete a security
assessment free of charge.
‘two thirds of new homeowners
do not change the locks
LOCKSMITHJOURNAL.CO.UK | MAR/APR 2016
Sponsored by ABUS
It probably comes as no surprise to
learn that burglars prefer the cover of
darkness so, installing dusk till dawn
lights on the property can act as a
deterrent to potential thieves.
Installing an alarm system, can act as a
deterrent and stop the property becoming
a target for thieves. Regularly changing
the alarm code, and only giving the details
of this to trusted individuals can also