Lock snapping is one of the most common methods used by burglars in the UK to gain entry to homes quickly and quietly. Anti snap locks are specially designed euro cylinder locks that stop this by breaking at a sacrificial snap point while keeping the internal locking mechanism secure. It takes less than a minute, requires minimal skill, and leaves little evidence of forced entry, which is why upgrading the lock on your door matters for both home security and insurance.
In this guide, we explain what anti-snap locks are, how they work, why KMG Locksmiths strongly recommends them for homeowners in Skelmersdale and the surrounding North West areas, what they cost, and how to get them fitted to better protect your property against lock snapping burglaries.
Anti-Snap Locks and Lock Snapping Explained | Why North West Homes Need One | KMG
Lock snapping is a very common method used by intruders to bypass door security on UPVC doors, typically by attacking a euro cylinder lock fitted as one of the euro profile cylinders found on most homes. This common method, also called cylinder snapping, can take just 5–10 seconds and requires zero skill or specialist tools.
By applying force to the exposed part of the cylinder (the section that protrudes beyond the door handle), a burglar targets the weakest point. Snapping it exposes a vital part of the mechanism and can allow them to gain access. This technique became widely known following a significant increase in burglaries across the North West, and it remains one prevalent method used today. Standard euro cylinders offer virtually no resistance to this attack.
Find out why anti-snap locks and euro cylinder locks are essential for homes in the North West. KMG Locksmiths Skelmersdale explains how they work and why you need one.
Anti-snap cylinders are engineered with a sacrificial break point built into the outer section of the lock. When force is applied, this pre-cut line is designed to break under force, while the inner section, which contains the locking mechanism, remains intact and functional. The door lock stays secure even after the attack, helping to prevent entry and showing how anti-snap locks can withstand lock snapping attacks.
High-quality anti-snap locks also incorporate additional security features such as active lockdown mechanisms, with quality lock cylinders resistant to drilling, picking, and bumping as well as snapping. Look for locks that are tested to TS007 3-Star or SS312, as these are independent certifications for lock security: TS007 3-Star indicates snap resistant performance, while SS312 Diamond is the sold secure diamond standard and the highest level, or highest approval, for a euro cylinder lock. A lock should be tested to one of these standards to be considered snap proof and resistant.
Will My Insurance Require Anti-Snap Locks?
Many home insurance providers now require BS3621-compliant or TS007 3-Star rated locks as a condition of cover, and insurers often expect tested, high-security anti-snap locks for compliance. If your locks don’t meet these standards and you make a claim following a break-in, your insurer may refuse to pay out. Fitting anti-snap locks is therefore not just a security measure — correctly fitted locks also improve resistance to snapping and act as a financial safeguard for homes and other properties.
If you’re unsure whether your current locks meet the required standard, our team at KMG Locksmiths can carry out a free security assessment and advise on the most appropriate lock upgrade for your property. A qualified locksmith can check that your euro cylinder is fitted correctly, recommend the most secure locks, and replace quality anti-snap cylinders quickly where needed to help you choose secure locks.
Use a Master Locksmith Association approved locksmith for installation or replacement.
How Much Does It Cost to Fit Anti-Snap Locks?
Fitting anti-snap locks is one of the most cost-effective home security investments you can make. Certified anti-snap locks are a cost-effective way to protect the home against break ins. Euro cylinder locks come in different sizes for different door thicknesses, so measure the internal and external sides in millimetres from the middle fixing point. The cost of a quality anti-snap cylinder and professional fitting is a fraction of the cost of a burglary — both financially and in terms of the disruption and distress it causes. The cylinder should sit completely flush where possible and must not protrude by more than 3mm. KMG Locksmiths offers competitive pricing on all lock replacements, and we only fit locks from trusted, reputable manufacturers.
Get Anti-Snap Locks Fitted in Skelmersdale
KMG Locksmiths supplies and fits anti-snap, anti-drill, and anti-bump locks across Skelmersdale, Wigan, Ormskirk, Chorley, and the wider North West for homes, commercial properties, and doors including uPVC, composite, aluminium, and any wooden door. With a 100% five-star review record and transparent pricing, we’re the trusted choice for home security in the region. These upgrades help stop criminals using lock snapping methods to gain entry, although no lock can make break-ins impossible. KMG can also advise on the quickest way to replace a standard lock on a wooden property with a tested anti-snap cylinder. Contact us today to book a free security assessment or request a quote.