How to Secure Your Home in Oldham: A Complete Guide

Home security is something every Oldham homeowner should take seriously. Greater Manchester Police statistics show that residential burglary remains a persistent concern across the borough, with opportunistic criminals targeting properties that have weak or outdated locks. The good news is that most burglaries are preventable — and the single most effective step you can take is upgrading your locks.

The front door is the most common point of entry for burglars in Oldham. If your door has a standard euro cylinder lock — the type found on most uPVC and composite doors — it may be vulnerable to a technique called lock snapping. This involves breaking the cylinder in half using minimal force, allowing the burglar to open the door in seconds. Anti-snap euro cylinders are specifically designed to resist this attack and can be fitted by a locksmith in around 10 minutes per lock.

For wooden front doors, a five-lever mortice deadlock to British Standard BS3621 is essential. This is the minimum standard required by most home insurance policies, and it provides significantly more resistance to picking and forced entry than a standard nightlatch alone. Ideally, your wooden door should have both a BS3621 mortice deadlock and a rim automatic deadlatch (like a Yale-type lock) for maximum security.

Windows are another common entry point. All ground-floor windows should have key-operated window locks, and you should consider fitting window locks to accessible first-floor windows too — particularly those above flat roofs, extensions, or near drainpipes. Window locks are inexpensive and can be fitted quickly by a professional locksmith.

Beyond locks, there are several other steps Oldham homeowners can take. Fit a letterbox guard to prevent key fishing — a technique where burglars use a tool through your letterbox to hook your keys off a nearby surface. Install door viewers (peepholes) so you can see who's at your door before opening it. Add hinge bolts to external doors to prevent them being forced off their hinges. And consider installing a key safe if you need to leave a spare key accessible for family members or carers.

Lighting is a powerful deterrent. Motion-activated security lights around your property's exterior make it much harder for burglars to approach unseen. Timer switches on indoor lights can make your home appear occupied when you're away. And keeping hedges and bushes trimmed means there are fewer hiding places around your property.

If you're unsure about your home's security, consider booking a professional home security survey. A qualified locksmith will assess every door, window, and potential vulnerability, and provide prioritised recommendations based on your property type and location. At Oldham Locksmiths, we offer comprehensive security surveys across the entire Oldham borough — call 07949 139 475 to book yours.