If you take out a bike insurance policy, the insurer will usually specify certain requirements for the lock you use to secure your bike. If your lock does not meet these requirements, then you may not be able to make a claim on your policy if your bike gets stolen.
In this post we’ll cover the sort of things that insurers are looking for when it comes to bike insurance lock requirements. But if you want a quick quote for comprehensive bicycle insurance cover, get in touch and we’ll sort you out.
Essential Bike Insurance Lock Requirements
Different insurers might specify different sets of requirements. But generally speaking, most insurers will set the following criteria for bike locks:
- The lock must either be a keyed armoured cable lock, a keyed chain lock set, or a keyed D-lock or U-lock.
- The lock must be less than two years old when you take out your policy.
- Many insurers will specify that the lock must be listed on the Sold Secure approved locks page.
Sold Secure Bike Lock Ratings
Sold Secure grades all cycle locks sold in Britain with either Bronze, Silver, or Gold ratings, with Gold-rated locks being the most secure. Some insurers will specify that you must get a lock with a specific rating depending on the value of the bike you want to insure.
For example, if your bike’s worth less than £1,500, you must get a bike lock with a Silver rating. But if your bike’s worth more than £1,500, you must get a lock with a Gold rating.
This is one reason why it’s important to get an accurate valuation for your bike before you take out insurance. Read our full guide to valuing your bike.
Making a Claim on a Stolen Bike
If your bike gets stolen and you make a claim on your policy, your insurer will likely ask certain questions about the lock you used. You may also have to provide certain bits of evidence, including:
- The key to your lock – which could demonstrate that it was locked at the time of the theft!
- A receipt to the lock – for proof that you were using a lock that met your insurer’s requirements.
- A clear photo of the key and the lock – it’s a good idea to take one of these in advance, just in case your bike’s ever stolen.
- If your lock was forced or broken, you may have to show your insurer the remains.
Read our full guide to what to do if your bike gets stolen.
We also have some tips on how you can help prevent bike theft in the home.
Bike Insurance – Get Full Cover For Your Beloved Bicycle!
If you truly value your bike – or if your bike’s especially valuable – then you absolutely should get specialist bike insurance. This way, if your bike’s ever lost, stolen, or damaged, you’ll be fully covered for repairs or a replacement.
Want a quick quote for comprehensive bicycle insurance cover? Get in touch and we’ll sort you out.
