What to consider when buying a safe?

When it comes to protecting your valuables, documents, and cash, choosing the right safe is a crucial decision that requires careful consideration. Whether you're a homeowner looking to secure personal items or a business owner protecting assets, understanding the key factors involved in safe selection can make the difference between adequate protection and peace of mind.

Understanding Safe Certification Standards

The first step in choosing a safe is understanding the different certification standards available. These standards determine how much protection your safe provides and what insurance coverage you can obtain.

EN14450 Standard Safes

For basic to moderate security needs, EN14450 certified safes offer reliable protection at an affordable price point. These safes come in two classifications:

S1 Classification provides entry-level certified protection with typical insurance values of £1,000 for cash and £10,000 for valuables. These safes are ideal for protecting passports, bank cards, small amounts of cash, jewellery, and sensitive documents. They're perfect for homeowners, renters, small businesses, and holiday let properties.

S2 Classification offers medium-level protection with insurance coverage of £4,000 for cash and £40,000 for valuables, making them suitable for those requiring slightly higher security levels.

EN1143-1 Eurograde Safes

For high-value assets requiring maximum protection, Eurograde safes certified under the EN1143-1 standard provide fortress-like security. These range from Grade 0 through Grade 6, with each level offering progressively higher protection:

  • Grade 0: £6,000 cash / £60,000 valuables
  • Grade 1: £10,000 cash / £100,000 valuables
  • Grade 2: £17,500 cash / £175,000 valuables
  • Grade 3: £35,000 cash / £350,000 valuables
  • Grade 4: £60,000 cash / £600,000 valuables
  • Grade 5: £100,000 cash / £1,000,000 valuables
  • Grade 6: £150,000 cash / £1,500,000 valuables

Grade 6 safes are typically used by banks, luxury goods warehouses, high-value residential properties, and government facilities where asset loss could result in substantial financial damage.

Key Features to Consider

Construction and Security Features

When evaluating safes, examine these critical construction elements:

  • Wall thickness: Look for solid steel construction, typically 3-5mm thick walls for basic safes, with much thicker walls for higher grades
  • Locking systems: Choose between key-operated, electronic PIN, or combination locks based on your usage patterns
  • Anchoring points: Ensure the safe includes bolting points for wall and/or floor installation
  • Anti-drill protection: Most quality safes include protection on the lock housing
  • Internal organization: Consider shelving and compartment options to organize your contents effectively

Locking System Options

Your choice of locking mechanism should align with how frequently you'll access the safe and your security preferences:

Traditional Key Locks are dependable and budget-friendly, requiring no batteries or electronic components. However, keys can be lost or duplicated.

Electronic PIN Locks offer convenience and programmability, allowing you to change codes easily. Some advanced models include features like user codes, override keys, and audit trails.

Biometric Readers provide the highest level of access control for premium applications, though they're typically found only on high-end safes.

Dual Custody Systems require two people to unlock the safe, ideal for businesses or situations requiring enhanced accountability.

Determining Your Security Needs

Assess What You're Protecting

Consider the value and type of items you need to secure:

  • Cash: Calculate the maximum amount you'll store to determine the appropriate cash rating
  • Valuables: Include jewellery, watches, collectibles, and precious metals in your valuation
  • Documents: Consider passports, property deeds, insurance papers, and USB drives
  • Digital media: Some safes offer specific protection for electronic storage devices

Insurance Considerations

Contact your insurance provider to understand their requirements for safe certification and ratings. Many insurers require specific certifications for coverage, and using an approved safe can sometimes reduce your premiums. Ensure the safe you choose meets or exceeds your insurer's requirements for the value of items you plan to store.

Fire Protection Requirements

Standard security safes don't typically include fire protection, which is certified separately under standards like EN 15659 for paper documents or NT Fire 017 for digital media. If fire protection is important for your needs, look for dual-rated models that combine security and fire resistance, typically offering 30 to 60 minutes of fire protection.

Size and Installation Considerations

Interior Capacity

Match the internal dimensions to your storage needs, considering both current requirements and potential future needs. Factor in the space required for proper organization and easy access to your items.

Installation Location

Consider where you'll install the safe:

  • Accessibility: Choose a location with reasonable access for regular use
  • Concealment: Position the safe in a discrete location when possible, such as inside a cupboard or wardrobe
  • Structural support: Ensure the floor can support the safe's weight, especially for heavier Eurograde models
  • Anchoring options: Verify you can properly bolt the safe to a solid surface

Professional Installation

Proper installation is crucial for security and insurance compliance. Professional installation ensures your safe is correctly anchored and positioned for maximum protection. Many suppliers offer free installation services, which is particularly important for heavier safes that require specialized handling and anchoring.

Budget Considerations

Safe prices vary significantly based on size, security rating, and features. EN14450 S1 safes typically start from around £800, while high-end Eurograde 6 safes can cost several thousand pounds. Remember that a safe is a long-term investment in protecting your valuables, and the cost of the safe should be weighed against the value of items you're protecting and potential insurance savings.

Choosing the Right Supplier

Select a reputable supplier who offers:

  • Certified products: Ensure all safes carry proper certification from accredited bodies
  • Expert guidance: Look for suppliers who can help match your needs to the right product
  • Professional installation: Proper installation is crucial for security and insurance compliance
  • After-sales support: Consider warranty coverage and ongoing service availability
  • Insurance industry connections: Suppliers who understand insurance requirements can ensure compliance

Final Recommendations

Before making your final decision, consider these key questions:

  1. What specific items will you store, and what's their total value?
  2. How often will you need to access the safe?
  3. Where will the safe be installed, and can the location support proper anchoring?
  4. Do you need fire protection in addition to security?
  5. What are your insurance company's requirements for certification and ratings?
  6. Is professional installation included in the purchase price?

By carefully evaluating these factors and working with a knowledgeable supplier, you can select a safe that provides the right level of protection for your specific needs while ensuring compliance with insurance requirements and peace of mind for years to come.

Remember that a safe is only as secure as its installation and the discretion used in its location. Even the highest-rated safe can be compromised if not properly installed or if its location is widely known. Choose wisely, install professionally, and maintain discretion about your safe's contents and location.