How Much Does It Cost to Have a Safe Fitted?
Safe Installation Costs in the UK
Safe installation costs in the UK typically range from free to £300+, depending on the company, location, and complexity of installation. Here's what you need to know:
Average Costs
Standard installation costs start at around £90 + VAT for basic small safe installation, with the average total project cost (including safe) being approximately £616. However, costs vary significantly based on:
- Safe size and weight
- Installation complexity (standard vs. floor/wall mounting)
- Location and service provider
- Additional requirements
Free Installation Options
Several UK companies offer free installation services:
- London Safes provides free delivery and installation for all safes within London & Home Counties
- Safes Direct offers free standard installation (bolting to masonry walls or concrete floors)
This can represent substantial savings, as installation typically costs £90-300+ when charged separately.
Installation Types and Pricing
Standard Installation (£90-150+)
- Bolting safe to concrete floor or masonry wall
- Basic site survey and positioning advice
- Compliance with insurance requirements
Complex Installation (Premium pricing)
- Floor safes sunk into the ground
- Wall safes embedded within walls
- Often requires building work and specialist knowledge
Budget Options (£75+)
- Some online companies offer basic installation from £75
- Often lacks professional survey, has unpredictable delivery times, and limited customer support
What Affects Installation Costs
Safe specifications:
- Grade 0 safes (protecting ~£60,000 contents) vs. Grade VI safes (~£1,500,000)
- Weight increases with security rating
- Digital vs. key locking mechanisms
Service quality:
- Professional site survey and consultation
- Same-day delivery and installation vs. separate appointments
- Ongoing customer support
- Master Locksmith Association certification
Regional Variations
London & Home Counties: Competitive prices offering free installation to attract customers.
Other UK regions: Standard charges apply, with installation costs varying based on local competition and travel distances for specialists.
Professional vs. Budget Installation
Professional installation (£90-300+) includes:
- Site survey with safe specialist
- Professional advice on optimal placement
- Proper bolting techniques for insurance compliance
- Direct project management
- Ongoing support
Budget installation (£75+) may involve:
- No site survey or professional advice
- Unpredictable courier delivery times
- Risk of safe damage during delivery
- Separate installation appointments
- Limited customer service via call centres
Insurance Requirements
Safes must be properly installed to maintain insurance validity. This typically means bolting to concrete floors or masonry walls using appropriate fixings. Higher-grade safes have specific installation requirements that must be met for insurance purposes.
Getting the Best Value
When comparing quotes:
- Calculate total costs including both safe price and installation
- Check what's included - site survey, advice, same-day service
- Verify qualifications - Master Locksmith Association approval
- Read reviews particularly focusing on installation service quality
- Consider convenience - free installation areas, appointment flexibility
Conclusion
While installation costs vary from free to £300+, the investment in professional installation ensures proper security, insurance compliance, and peace of mind. Companies offering free installation in London and surrounding areas provide exceptional value, while elsewhere, paying for quality professional service typically costs £90-150+ but delivers better results than budget alternatives.