We know that when choosing your windows or doorsets, safety and security are a top priority.
The level of security provided by a timber window or doorset will depend upon the design, quality of manufacture, and the hardware specified and the type of glazing used.
The best way to have confidence that your timber product will offer a level of security that aims to protect your property, possessions and the building occupants in the unfortunate event of a burglary is to check that it has been tested to PAS 24.
Publicly Available Specification (PAS) is a standard set by an industry to ensure that all manufacturers in an industry are making and selling products that reach the industry benchmark for quality. PAS is overseen by the British Standards Institute.
PAS 24 specifies test methods and acceptance criteria for the enhanced security performance of doorsets and windows intended to resist the type of attack normally associated with casual or opportunistic burglars. It applies to new doorsets and windows as manufactured and prior to installation.
On 30 September 2024, PAS 24 was updated and is now referred to as PAS:2022+A1:2024.
Approved Document Q of The Building Regulations 2010 introduce requirements for security standards in new build homes (including new homes created by a change of use such as barn conversion). Compliance of Part Q relates to a window or door’s ability to “resist physical attack by a would-be burglar.”
A revised version of Approved Document Q is anticipated to be released by the Home Office shortly. This update is likely to introduce a requirement for enhanced security for replacement windows and doorsets in existing dwellings, while currently it only applies to new build dwellings.
On 22 November 2024, a new ‘frequently asked question’ was published regarding the position and height of letter box apertures in homes. Read the response to this question here.
Whilst we await further guidance on these changes, please refer to the current version of Approved Document Q here.
