Make the property safe without destroying the entry-point evidence
Wait for police clearance before repair where evidence may exist. Then use a competent emergency contractor to restore weather protection, safe escape and meaningful resistance—not merely hide the damage.
Immediate priorities
- Isolate people and pets from broken glass, unstable frames and exposed wiring.
- Photograph damage only when permitted and without walking through evidence.
- Contact the insurer before non-emergency permanent work where the policy requires it.
- Use temporary boarding that cannot be easily removed from outside.
- Keep fire exits and necessary accessibility routes usable.
- Change or disable stolen keys, fobs, remotes, PINs and smart-lock access.
- Test the alarm contact after the opening is made secure.
Repair the system, not just the visible panel
| Damage | Inspect together |
|---|---|
| Forced door | Door leaf, frame, hinges, strike, fixings, glazing, cylinder and surrounding wall |
| Broken window | Frame, locking points, glazing specification, beads, restrictors and accessible handles |
| Patio or sliding door | Tracks, anti-lift measures, interlocks, frame anchoring and lock engagement |
| Garage entry | Panel, side tracks, emergency release, opener, remote controls and house-connection door |
Do not create a new life-safety problem. Security work must not trap occupants, block emergency escape or conceal structural, electrical or gas damage.
Before paying the final invoice
- Confirm the exact repair and product specification in writing.
- Test alignment, locking, emergency operation and alarm contacts.
- Obtain itemised invoices, photographs and warranty information.
- Update household key control and insurer records.
- Schedule a later whole-property review rather than over-fortifying only the damaged opening.
Complete the recovery
Preserve evidence first · Run the risk assessment · Find relevant installers
Last checked: 1 September 2026. Building, glazing, lock and emergency-repair requirements vary locally.