Autolocking door - replacing handle/lock

[JustInTime2021]

Hi

I've bought a property where the external handle won't open the door even if the door is unlocked unless I put the key in externally - I am at risk of locking myself out of the property.

I wondered what my options were - I am looking at replacing the lock as a minimum (as I don't know how many people previously had the key to the property)

Thanks

 

[crank39]

You need a new pair of handles and one solid spindle, take measurements for screw centres and PZ from the inner handle not the outer

 

[JustInTime2021]

Thank you - a follow up question I noticed the external lock isn't flush. Should I be looking at reducing the external size of the cylinder to make it flush - I have been reading that earlier cylinders could be snapped and used to gain entry.

 

[crank39]

Cylinder lengths are measured in 5mm increments so if the outer is sticking out 5mm then theoretically you can deduct 5mm when ordering a replacement, be careful though because if it's sticking out less than 5mm it will mean a replacement will sit below the surface of the handle, some cylinders only stick out 3mm so the next size down will be below the surface.

It might be best to wait till you change the handle as the new handles back plate could potentially be thinner or thicker which will effect the stick out

 

[JohnD]

I've bought a property where the external handle won't open the door even if the door is unlocked unless I put the key in externally

That's a good design, it prevents an intruder from opening the door and walking freely in.

If you are forgetful, you may like to put a keysafe where it is out of sight of visitors.

I have one concealed in the shed.

Though my lock enables me to snib back the latch while I put the bins out.

 

[JustInTime2021]

We do have a key safe on the side (slightly hidden) but to be honest I always wonder how safe these are and the potential impact to home insurance if someone did break in to the key safe and gained access to the property.

 

[crank39]

I have a composite front door with a pole handle so no handle to pull down on to release the latch so very easy to lock yourself out if the dog jumps on the back of the door while you go out to the bins(ask me how I know), so instead of a keysafe which aren't that safe I bury a key in a zip bag somewhere in the front garden