If you've ever looked closely at a door lock or security handle, you may have noticed it is stamped Secured by Design. Many homeowners assume this is simply a manufacturer's logo, but it actually has an important meaning.

A Secured by Design approved product has met recognised security standards and forms part of the UK's official police-backed initiative to help reduce crime through better physical security.

What Is Secured by Design?

Secured by Design (SBD) is the official police security initiative that encourages manufacturers to produce products capable of resisting common methods of forced entry.

The scheme promotes better security for:

• Door locks
• Windows
• Security handles
• Doorsets
• Garages
• Gates
• Other security products

Products carrying the Secured by Design logo have met recognised testing standards before being approved.

To understand how Secured by Design works alongside other recognised security standards, read Understanding Door Lock Security Standards: TS007, Secured by Design, PAS 24 and Insurance Requirements Explained.

Why Does It Matter?

A door is only as secure as the components fitted to it.

Choosing products that have achieved Secured by Design accreditation provides reassurance that they have been independently assessed against recognised security standards.

This helps homeowners make informed decisions when upgrading their home security.

If you're comparing different security products, How to Compare Lock Specifications explains what to look for.

Does It Mean the Lock Can't Be Broken?

No.

No lock or security product is completely burglar-proof.

A Secured by Design approved lock is designed to make forced entry significantly more difficult by resisting common attack methods and increasing the time, effort, and noise required to gain entry.

For an opportunist burglar, that extra resistance is often enough to encourage them to move on.

For more information about modern high-security cylinders, see The Complete Guide to Euro Cylinder Door Locks.

What Types of Products Carry the SBD Mark?

You may find the Secured by Design logo on:

• Euro cylinders
• Multipoint locking systems
• Mortice locks
• Security door handles
• Composite doors
• uPVC doors
• Complete doorsets

The approval applies only to products that meet the required standards.

Secured by Design vs Sold Secure

Although they're often mentioned together, they're not exactly the same.

Sold Secure independently tests individual security products against specific attack methods.

Secured by Design is a police-backed accreditation scheme that recognises products meeting recognised security standards as part of improving the overall security of homes and buildings.

Many high-quality locks carry both approvals.

To learn more about independent lock testing, read What Makes a Lock Sold Secure Approved?

A Good Lock Still Needs a Good Door

Even the best security lock won't perform properly if:

• The door has dropped.
• The multipoint mechanism is worn.
• The lock isn't fitted correctly.
• The cylinder protrudes too far (risk of lock snapping).
• The handles are damaged.

Good security depends on the entire door working correctly, not just the lock itself.

To understand how all these components work together, see Every Part of a uPVC Door Explained.

Professional Installation Matters

When fitting a Secured by Design approved lock, it's important that:

• The cylinder is the correct size.
• The lock is installed correctly.
• The door is properly aligned.
• The locking mechanism operates smoothly.
• Security handles are fitted where appropriate.

Even an approved product can perform poorly if it's incorrectly installed.

Better Security Starts with the Right Products

If you're upgrading your door locks, choosing products that carry the Secured by Design mark is a good way of knowing they've met recognised security standards. Combined with quality installation, correct door alignment, and regular maintenance, they can help improve your home's security and provide greater peace of mind.

If you're planning to improve your home's security, The Complete Guide to Upgrading Your Door Locks for Better Home Security provides an overview of the best upgrades available. For a broader look at recognised standards, read A–Z of Door & Lock Security Standards.