The government’s Document Q outlines what builders and door fitters need to be aware of when installing windows and doors.
The most recent update came out in October 2015
and instructs tradesmen on the latest minimum standards that are required when fitting doorsets.
Once accredited, professional door fitters and builders can then use them to secure buildings where individuals live and work. Document Q also stipulates the size of aperture that should be allowed (260mm x 40mm) and that it should be constructed or located in such a way that prevents hands or tools from being easily inserted. This way it makes it much harder for any would-be intruder to get keys or other valuables that might have been left within reach of the door.
Garages and Connecting Doors
Of course the most secure doors only need to be located on exterior entrances, however, if you have a garage that has a connecting door to the interior of your home or business, it would be necessary to install either a PAS24:2014 rated garage door or, if that’s not possible, the connecting door would need to meet the standard instead. (that’s not to say you need to replace all of your windows and doors, however, if you have any remodelling or reconstruction carried out, the builders or fitters will need to comply with the latest Document Q requirements.)
In the case of HMOs, whether the building is being converted or refurbished, Document Q requires that not only the main access way needs to meet PAS24:2014, but the doorset to each individual domicile also needs to meet the UK Accreditation Service requirements as well.
It has to be said that doors that reach or exceed PAS24:2014 are extremely secure, recently several police forces throughout the country have had to reconsider their techniques when entering properties as the doors have stood up so well to their efforts to knock them down.
