Security Masters Ltd

Directions Website

Security Masters Ltd Security Masters are accredited locksmiths based in London, with over 30 years experience. For more

Established in 1998 our experience comes from within our team, all of whom are long term, highly qualified locksmiths and installers. They can offer you the very best in practical detailed advice and take pride in doing so. For your added assurance we are also members of the Master Locksmiths Association.

I wonder how many people with a video doorbell have actually checked what it's recording?I was thinking about this recen...
04/11/2026

I wonder how many people with a video doorbell have actually checked what it's recording?

I was thinking about this recently because video doorbells have become so common. Almost every street seems to have a few now, and I can completely understand why people like them.

But something I think a lot of homeowners don't realise is that you could actually find yourself in trouble if your camera is recording your neighbours.

Under UK data protection law, if your camera captures footage beyond your own property, including a neighbour's garden, driveway or even the pavement, you have certain legal responsibilities.

It doesn't automatically mean you're breaking the law, but you do need to be careful about what you're recording.

Most video doorbells have privacy settings that let you block out areas you don't need to see. It's worth checking yours.

There's something else I always remind people of, too.

A video doorbell might show you who's at your front door, but it won't stop someone getting through it.

I've been a locksmith for over 30 years, and I still come across homes with expensive cameras but locks that could do with some attention.

Sometimes we get so caught up in the latest technology that we forget about the basics.

So I'm curious, if you've got a video doorbell, have you ever checked whether it's recording your neighbours' property?

Mark

Nobody wants to experience a break-in, but unfortunately, it's something I've helped many homeowners and businesses deal...
28/10/2026

Nobody wants to experience a break-in, but unfortunately, it's something I've helped many homeowners and businesses deal with over the years.

The first priority is always making the property secure again. Sometimes that's as simple as replacing a damaged lock. Other times, the door or frame has been damaged and needs repairing too.

One thing I always say is that a break-in is a good time to review the security of the property. Not because you necessarily need to spend money on new systems, but because it's worth understanding how someone managed to get in and whether there's anything that could prevent it happening again.

I've been a locksmith for over 30 years, and if there's one thing I've learnt, it's that good security doesn't always have to be complicated or expensive.

Sometimes the smallest changes make the biggest difference.

An old lock can look perfectly fine until it is tested by a professional.Many break-ins begin with security that has qui...
21/10/2026

An old lock can look perfectly fine until it is tested by a professional.

Many break-ins begin with security that has quietly fallen behind. Lock cylinders wear over time, and older mechanisms can become easier to pick, manipulate or force.

That is why a professional security survey, of the type I offer, is always more valuable than waiting for an emergency.

A proper survey can identify worn cylinders, vulnerable door hardware and other weaknesses before they are exploited. It gives you a clearer view of the risks and the practical steps that can reduce them.

For homes and businesses, prevention is usually simpler and less disruptive than dealing with the consequences of a break-in.

When was the last time your property’s security was properly checked?

Burglary is falling, but one everyday myth still needs challenging.Recorded burglary is down 9%, and domestic burglaries...
14/10/2026

Burglary is falling, but one everyday myth still needs challenging.

Recorded burglary is down 9%, and domestic burglaries are down around 20%. That is encouraging. But roughly one in four incidents still happens through an unlocked door or window. Around two-thirds also take place in daylight.

So “it’s daytime” does not mean “it’s safe”, and being at home does not remove the need to lock up.

A few simple habits help close the gap:
-Lock doors and windows, even when you are home.
-Keep keys out of sight and away from letterboxes.
-Check side, rear and ground-floor access before leaving, even for a short time.

Good security is often about consistent basics, not panic or unnecessary spending. I’m happy to offer practical advice on securing your home and reducing avoidable risk.

Annoying, isn't it? Having to slam your uPVC door hard before it shuts properly? There's more to it than frustration, th...
08/10/2026

Annoying, isn't it? Having to slam your uPVC door hard before it shuts properly? There's more to it than frustration, though, trust me.

A door that's hard to close may be misaligned; locks could be stressed; and burglars have a weakness to exploit. Using force could leave your home less secure than it should be.

Changing weather, regular use, and ageing hardware can all contribute to this problem. The good news is that I inspect, repair, and service uPVC doors to keep you safe and save you the cost of replacement.

If your door is becoming harder to open and close, I can help. Just ask.

As the weather turns, it's worth checking your doors and locks.Wind, rain, and a chill in the air can cause doors to mis...
30/09/2026

As the weather turns, it's worth checking your doors and locks.

Wind, rain, and a chill in the air can cause doors to misalign, locks to stiffen, and fittings to loosen.

So, now is a good time to look out for...

• Keys becoming harder to turn
• Doors needing force to close
• Draughts or visible gaps around the frame
• Hinges becoming loose
• Latches not latching properly

It's worth seeking advice early before the problem becomes more disruptive or costly.

I’m always happy to check any locks, doors, and security hardware if something doesn't feel right.

September is move-in season, and shared student houses can quickly become a security blind spot.With frequent visitors, ...
23/09/2026

September is move-in season, and shared student houses can quickly become a security blind spot.

With frequent visitors, doors left on the latch, bikes and laptops around the property, and keys passed between housemates, it can become difficult to know who has access. That does not mean student homes need complicated security. A few consistent habits can make a real difference.

I recommend locking the door properly, even when someone is still at home, and keeping keys out of sight rather than near windows or letterboxes. Secure bikes to a fixed point, check that accessible windows are closed, and avoid sharing entry codes more widely than necessary. If codes or keys have changed hands too often, it may be worth reviewing access before the new term gets fully underway.

These are simple steps for students and sensible checks for parents and landlords too. If you would like practical advice on securing a shared property, I’m happy to help.

A tenant move-in is a good moment to review a property’s security before small issues become bigger problems.I’d check t...
16/09/2026

A tenant move-in is a good moment to review a property’s security before small issues become bigger problems.

I’d check that external doors and accessible windows have suitable locks that work properly and are correctly fitted. I’d also confirm who may still have keys or access codes, including previous tenants and contractors.

In a block, communal entrances, access controls, fire doors and escape routes may need the same attention.

Landlord responsibilities vary by property and tenancy, so check the rules that apply and seek competent advice where needed.

A brief review can prevent avoidable problems. If you’re unsure what needs attention, I’m happy to discuss the options.

Moved into a new home? Congratulations. It's always an exciting time. However, before you unpack everything, I suggest y...
09/09/2026

Moved into a new home? Congratulations. It's always an exciting time. However, before you unpack everything, I suggest you take a moment to think about who may still have a key.

Previous owners, tenants, family members, contractors, cleaners, or agents may have been given access over the years. You may never know exactly how many copies exist or who still has them.

Changing or re-keying your locks after moving in gives you greater control over who can enter your home. It can also be a sensible step when:

• You have moved into a rental property
• Keys are missing or unaccounted for
• You have recently experienced a change in occupancy
• You want added reassurance after buying a property

The right solution depends on your doors and existing locks, but I can assess what you have and explain whether a lock change, cylinder replacement, or re-keying is most suitable.

I am an MLA-certified Master Locksmith, providing professional advice across Hornchurch and surrounding Essex areas.

Keys work fine at home. But once you are in a workplace and have staff, contractors, cleaners, and visitors to manage ac...
27/08/2026

Keys work fine at home. But once you are in a workplace and have staff, contractors, cleaners, and visitors to manage across multiple entrances, they can frankly become a pain to manage.

Who has one? Who copied one? Has an ex-employee returned theirs?

That's why I increasingly recommend electronic access control to local businesses. I can install systems that make it much easier to control who can enter a building without handing out physical keys.

If managing keys is becoming more of a hassle than it should be, get in touch. I can take a look at your current setup and recommend an access control system that gives you better control over who comes and goes.

Address

Prospect House
Hornchurch
RM113TZ

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 5pm
Tuesday 8am - 5pm
Wednesday 8am - 5pm
Thursday 8am - 5pm
Friday 8am - 5pm
Saturday 10am - 1pm

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Security Masters Ltd posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Shortcuts

Share

Nearby businesses