Window Locks: Which Type, Which Windows
Front and back doors get all the attention, but windows are just as easy a way in, especially at the back and side of the house. Here's what to fit and where.
Short answer: fit keyed locks to every ground-floor and easily reached window, starting at the back and sides of the house. The right lock depends on the window type: sliding windows take sliding window locks or track stops, awning and casement windows take keyed winder or stay locks, and sash windows take sash locks or stops.
Which windows to do first
- Ground-floor windows at the back and sides, out of view of the street
- Windows next to doors, which can be broken to reach a lock
- Windows reachable from a deck, roof, fence or bins
- Laundry, bathroom and toilet windows, often left open for air
- Front windows
Window lock types
| Window type | Common lock options |
|---|---|
| Sliding windows | Keyed sliding window locks, track stops |
| Awning windows (open outwards on a winder) | Keyed winder locks, keyed stay locks |
| Casement windows (hinged at the side) | Keyed casement locks, keyed stays |
| Double-hung sash windows | Sash locks, sash stops |
| Louvres | Louvre locks, or replacing louvres with a more secure window |
Keyed locks matter. A latch that can be flicked open from inside can be reached by anyone who breaks a small pane of glass.
Ventilation locks
Some window locks can be set so the window stays open a little for air but can't be opened further. They're useful for bedrooms, laundries and holiday homes in summer.
Keys and fire safety
Keyed window locks need keys, so keep a window key somewhere everyone in the house can reach quickly, especially in bedrooms. In a fire, you need a way out.
Rentals in Victoria
Victoria's rental minimum standards require windows in rental properties to have functioning latches that secure them against entry from outside (Consumer Affairs Victoria). Renters should ask their rental provider before adding or changing locks.
Holiday homes
Holiday homes on the Peninsula often sit empty for weeks. Before leaving them over winter, check that every ground-floor window has a working keyed lock, and that bathroom and laundry windows haven't been left on a vent setting.
On the Mornington Peninsula or in Frankston? See security upgrades.
Frequently asked questions
Your questions, answered
Which windows should have locks?
Every ground-floor window and any window you can reach from a deck, roof or fence. Start with the back and sides of the house.
Are keyed window locks better than latches?
Yes. A latch can be flicked open by reaching through a broken pane. A keyed lock can't be opened without the key.
Can I lock a window partly open?
Yes. Some locks allow a ventilation setting so the window opens a little but no further.
Do rental properties in Victoria need window locks?
Victoria's rental minimum standards require windows to have functioning latches that secure them against external entry.
Can a locksmith fit window locks?
Yes. A locksmith can fit keyed locks to most window types and key them alike.
Need a locksmith on the Peninsula?
Homes, cars and businesses. Call any time and tell us what has happened.