Are door locks covered on house insurance?

When evaluating your homeowners insurance policy, you might wonder: are door locks covered if they’re damaged or need replacement? The answer depends on your policy details, the insurer, and the cause of the damage.

1. Routine Locksmith Services Are Rarely Covered

Most standard homeowners insurance policies do not cover everyday locksmith needs. This includes services like:

• Rekeying the locks

• Being locked out of your home

• Lost or misplaced keys

Unless the need for a locksmith arises from a covered peril (like a break-in or vandalism), insurance typically won’t reimburse these expenses.

2. When Insurance May Cover Lock-Related Costs

There are specific situations where homeowners insurance may pay to replace or repair locks, including:

• Damage from a natural disaster, such as a fire or severe storm

• Vandalism that destroys the lock or door

• Theft, if your keys are stolen and rekeying is necessary as part of securing your home

In these cases, coverage usually applies under the dwelling or personal property section of your policy, depending on how the loss occurred.

3. How Much Will It Cover?

Even when a claim is approved:

• Payouts for lock replacement are usually limited

• You’ll still need to meet your policy deductible

• Reimbursements are often capped at low amounts, typically under $100

For most basic lock issues, it’s more cost-effective to handle the expense yourself or through a home service plan.

4. Lock Type Can Impact Your Insurance

Insurance providers do consider your home’s security when pricing your policy. The type and quality of your locks can:

• Affect your eligibility for discounts

• Influence the outcome of a claim

• Be a condition for coverage in some policies

Insurers may prefer five-lever deadbolts, anti-snap euro cylinder locks, or multi-point locking systems. Smart locks alone typically don’t qualify for a discount unless integrated with a full monitored security system.

5. Improper Use Can Invalidate Claims

If a burglary occurs and it’s determined that your doors were left unlocked or your locks weren’t functional, your insurer could reduce or deny the claim. To avoid this:

• Always lock your doors

• Maintain lock hardware in working condition

• Use security systems if listed in your policy as a condition for a discount

Summary: When Are Door Locks Covered?

What You Can Do

• Check your lock type and ensure it meets insurer standards

• Document any upgrades or repairs made to locks

• Review your policy’s fine print on coverage limits and exclusions

• Add a home assistance rider if you want locksmith coverage included

• Keep receipts for locksmith services in case you need to file a claim

Final Thoughts

Homeowners insurance does not usually cover everyday locksmith services, but may provide limited reimbursement when locks are damaged due to a covered event. The type and quality of your locks can affect both your eligibility for coverage and your ability to claim successfully. Reviewing your policy and upgrading your home’s security are smart steps toward stronger protection.

Not sure if your current coverage protects your locks and security system?
At THAgency, we help you understand what’s included, what’s missing, and how to enhance your policy for total peace of mind. Fill out the form below and get a personalized quote today. It’s fast, secure, and tailored to your home.