The Locksmith Journal Mar/Apr 2022 - Issue 79 | Page 46

SMART LOCKS

Guide to Smarter Security

The UK Smart Lock sector is continuing to grow , as more homeowners are introducing connected devices into their homes . And as more smart home devices can now be connected and communicate with each other , there ’ s an increasing demand for fully integrated smart home and smart security systems , opening up additional possibilities for locksmiths .
» RESEARCH FROM THE OFFICE OF National Statistic ( ONS ) revealed that 76 % of household burglaries in England and Wales occurred when the offender gained access through a door *. As a result , front door security continues to play extremely significant role in a full home security system .
As we see a rising interest in smart home security and an increasing interest in smart locks from homeowners , the smart security expert from Yale want to ensure you ’ re fully equipped with the knowledge and tools to effectively communicate with and advise your customers . There are many smart locks in the market today , which means it ’ s important to understand which system is the right one for your customers and their homes .
The Benefits of Smart Locks
The use of a smart lock on a home makes a traditional key redundant , as homeowners can lock and unlock their doors via their smartphone or range of accessories , such as key cards . Not only is this far easier and much more convenient , but it also alleviates the troubles caused by losing or forgetting keys .
There are also significant security advantages to smart locks too . The first , and most obvious , is that there are no physical keys to misplace . The second is that most smart locks can enable away from home control , meaning remote access can be granted to guests or tradespeople when away from home . These locks can also connect to other smart security devices , such as smart outdoor security cameras , to show homeowners who is at their door and choose whether to grant access .
Additionally , it ’ s not uncommon for homeowners to get that niggling feeling around whether the front door has been locked when leaving the house . Benefits of a smart lock are that they enable homeowners to check this remotely , via their smartphone .
For homeowners , their concerns may lie with the security of a smart lock compared with a traditional lock . To ensure consistency within the market , the British Standard Institute ( BSI ) adopted a locking standard known as TS621:2018 , this is now the recognised UK standard for smart locking devices .
The BSI standard for smart locking devices was designed to provide homeowners with the reassurance that they can enjoy the convenience and lifestyle benefits of a smart lock , without having to compromise on the security of their home .
As a locksmith , having products which carry this standard and are accredited by the BSI included as part of your robust security offering , gives reassurance to customers that the products you are providing and installing meet the highest level of security .
Finding the Smart Lock that fits
Whilst there are many benefits to smart locks , it ’ s important to ensure the right lock is chosen for your customer ’ s door .
Doors which have a multipoint lock , and are commonly composite or UPVC doors , are most suited to be upgraded to a smart lock such as Yale ’ s Conexis ® L1 . The Conexis ® L1 was the first smart lock to be accredited with the BSI Smart Home Kitemark . This accreditation
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MAR / APR 2022
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