Smart and digital locks are genuinely useful — keypad or phone entry, codes for guests, carers or trades, and no more spare keys under the mat. But they are also where a lot of well-meaning DIY goes wrong, usually around insurance and around uPVC doors. Fitted by a locksmith who understands both, you get the convenience without losing security or cover.
The main types
- Keypad / code locks — no app or phone needed; you enter a code. Simple and reliable.
- Retrofit smart locks (such as Nuki or SwitchBot) that fit over your existing cylinder and motorise it, controlled by app, keypad or fob — your original key still works.
- Full smart locks and smart cylinders (such as the Ultion Nuki or Yale ranges) that replace the cylinder or handle and carry their own security rating.
- Biometric / fingerprint options for keyless convenience.
The insurance point most people miss
Most UK home insurance requires your final exit doors to have a lock that meets BS3621 (the kitemarked British Standard for mortice and rim locks) or, for euro-cylinder doors, a TS007 3-star or Diamond-rated anti-snap cylinder. This is the detail that catches people out:
- A retrofit smart lock sits over your existing cylinder, so it keeps that cylinder’s rating — but only if the cylinder is already compliant. If your existing lock isn’t up to standard, adding a smart motor on top doesn’t fix that.
- A full smart lock has to meet the standard itself; for example, the Ultion Nuki is built around an Ultion 3-star cylinder, which is why it is a strong insurance-friendly choice.
We check your policy wording, fit hardware that keeps you covered, and recommend getting written confirmation from your insurer for the specific model — so a clever upgrade never quietly invalidates your cover.
Smart locks on uPVC and composite doors
uPVC and composite doors use a multipoint mechanism: you lift the handle to throw the hooks and bolts before the lock turns. Most retrofit smart locks only turn the cylinder — they don’t lift the handle — so on a multipoint door you either choose a model designed for it or simply lift the handle yourself before the lock engages. We advise the right approach for your specific door rather than selling you something that fights it.
The practical things that matter
- Battery life and overrides: heavy UK multipoint doors take real torque to drive, so expect to change or charge batteries every few months. Good locks warn you well before they die, and keep a physical key or a 9V jump-start override so you are never locked out.
- Smart-home integration: newer locks support Matter / Thread for fast, reliable connection to Alexa, Google Home or Apple Home.
- Access control: time-limited codes are ideal for holiday lets, cleaners, carers and tradespeople, and can be revoked instantly.
