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Granny Annexe Security: Best Locks, Alarms & Lighting Solutions (UK Guide)

Ensuring a granny annexe is secure is vital for your loved one’s safety, comfort, and peace of mind. As a standalone structure, an annexe can be more vulnerable to break-ins, making robust security measures essential. This comprehensive UK guide explores the best granny annexe security solutions, from high-quality locks to advanced alarms and lighting, all compliant with British safety standards. Whether you’re searching for “granny annexe security UK” or “best locks for annexes,” we cover practical, cost-effective ways to protect elderly relatives and meet insurance requirements.

Why Granny Annexe Security Matters?

A granny annexe, often detached from the main house, faces unique security risks. Proper measures not only deter intruders but also ensure elderly home safety. Key benefits include:

  • Deterrence: Visible locks, lights, and cameras discourage burglars.
  • Alerts: Alarms notify occupants, family, or neighbours of intrusions.
  • Accessibility: Smart systems allow carers or family to assist remotely.
  • Insurance compliance: Many UK insurers require BS 3621 locks or approved alarms for coverage.
  • Peace of mind: Elderly residents feel secure in their own space.

Below, we detail the best security solutions for granny annexes, tailored to UK homes.

Best Door and Window Locks for Granny Annexes

Strong locks are the first line of defence for any annexe. Choose products meeting British Standard BS 3621 for insurance approval.

A. Door Locks
  • Multi-point locking system: Brands like Yale Superior or Ultion offer three-point security for uPVC or composite doors. Cost: £80–£200.
  • Mortice deadlock: BS 3621-compliant for wooden doors, ideal for traditional annexes. Cost: £50–£150.
  • Smart locks: Yale Keyless or August Smart Lock allow keyless entry via PIN or app, perfect for carers or forgetful residents. Cost: £150–£300.
B. Window Locks
  • Key-operated locks: Essential for tilt-and-turn or sliding windows, preventing forced entry. Cost: £10–£30 per window.
  • Laminated glass: Tougher to break than standard glass, adding protection. Cost: £50–£100 per window.
  • Window restrictors: Limit opening for ventilation without compromising safety. Cost: £15–£40.

Tip: Verify locks carry the BSI Kitemark or Secured by Design approval to meet insurer standards and enhance annexe security UK.

Alarm Systems for Granny Annexes

Alarms provide instant alerts, crucial for isolated annexes. Options range from DIY kits to professional systems.

A. Wireless Alarm Kits
  • SimpliSafe: No wiring, portable, with 24/7 monitoring option. Cost: £200–£400.
  • Ring Alarm: Integrates with smart cameras and doorbells, app-controlled. Cost: £150–£350.
B. Monitored Alarm Systems
  • ADT: Professional installation with police response in emergencies. Cost: £400–£800 + £30/month.
  • Verisure: Includes photo detectors for visual verification. Cost: £500–£1,000 + £40/month.
C. Personal Alarms for Elderly Residents
  • Fall detectors: LifeConnect24 pendants alert family or carers if a fall occurs. Cost: £100–£200 + £15/month.
  • Panic buttons: Wearable devices linked to a 24/7 call centre. Cost: £50–£150 + £10/month.

Tip: Choose alarms with battery backups to ensure functionality during power cuts, vital for elderly home safety solutions.

Security Lighting for Granny Annexes

Well-placed lighting deters intruders and improves safety for nighttime movement.

A. Motion-Activated Floodlights
  • LED PIR sensor lights: Ring Floodlight Cam combines lighting and cameras. Cost: £120–£250.
  • Solar-powered options: No wiring, eco-friendly, ideal for remote annexes. Cost: £30–£100.
B. Smart Lighting
  • Philips Hue: Schedule lights via app to mimic occupancy. Cost: £50–£150 per bulb/starter kit.
  • Fake TV lights: Simulate TV flicker to deter burglars. Cost: £20–£50.
C. Pathway Lighting
  • Low-voltage LED bollards: Guide residents safely to the main house. Cost: £20–£60 each.
  • Ground lights: Subtle illumination for steps or ramps. Cost: £15–£40 each.

CCTV and Smart Security for Annexes

Modern tech enhances monitoring, especially for family checking in remotely.

  • Wireless cameras: Ring Stick Up Cam or Arlo Pro are weatherproof, with night vision. Cost: £90–£200 each.
  • Video doorbells: Nest Hello or Ring Doorbell show visitors via app. Cost: £100–£250.
  • Storage options: Local SD cards (£10–£50) for privacy; cloud subscriptions (£3–£10/month) for convenience.

Tip: Position cameras to cover entry points without invading neighbour privacy, complying with UK GDPR laws.

Fire Safety for Granny Annexes

Security isn’t just about intruders—fire risks are critical for elderly residents.

  • Smoke alarms: Install interlinked detectors in living areas and kitchens (BS 5839 compliant). Cost: £20–£50 each.
  • Fire extinguishers: Small foam or CO2 units for kitchens. Cost: £30–£80.
  • Escape routes: Ensure wide doors (min. 775mm) and clear paths, per Building Regulations Part B.

Tip: Test alarms monthly and keep extinguishers serviced annually for reliable annexe fire safety.

Securing Garden Access and Outbuildings

Annexes often sit in gardens, so securing the perimeter is key.

  • Gates: Use heavy-duty padlocks or smart gate locks (BS 3621). Cost: £30–£150.
  • Fencing: 1.8m-high panels deter climbing. Cost: £50–£200 per section.
  • Sheds: Fit hasp and staple locks to prevent tool theft. Cost: £10–£50.

Maintenance Tips for Long-Term Security

Keep systems reliable with regular checks:

  • Locks: Lubricate annually to prevent jamming (£5–£10 for spray).
  • Alarms/CCTV: Replace batteries yearly; update software for smart devices.
  • Lighting: Clean solar panels and replace bulbs every 2–3 years (£5–£20).

Additional Security Tips

  • Neighbourhood Watch: Register with local schemes for community alerts.
  • Insurance review: Confirm policies cover annexes; some require specific locks (e.g., 5-lever mortice).
  • Visible deterrents: Add “CCTV in operation” signs (£5–£15) to ward off intruders.
  • Key management: Use a secure key safe (£20–£50) for carer access.

FAQs: Granny Annexe Security

Q: Do granny annexes need different security than main houses?

A: Yes—they’re often isolated, requiring extra lighting, alarms, and robust locks for elderly home safety.

Q: Are smart locks safe for elderly relatives?

A: Absolutely! Keyless entry prevents lost keys, and remote access helps family monitor entry. Choose models like Yale Keyless for reliability.

Q: What’s the best budget security option?

A: Combine motion-sensor lights (£20–£50) and a basic wireless alarm (£100–£200) for cost-effective protection.

Q: Do I need planning permission for security cameras?

A: Usually not, but avoid overlooking neighbours to comply with privacy laws. Check with your council for conservation areas.

Final Verdict: Best Security Setup for a Granny Annexe

Security Measure Best Product Examples Approx Cost
Door Lock Ultion 3-Star, Yale Keyless £100–£250
Alarm System SimpliSafe, Ring Alarm £200–£500
CCTV Camera Ring Stick Up Cam, Arlo Pro £90–£200
Motion Light Ring Floodlight Cam, Solar LED £120–£250



For maximum granny annexe security, combine:

  • Strong locks: Ultion or Yale for doors and windows.
  • Alarm system: SimpliSafe or Ring for instant alerts.
  • CCTV: Ring or Arlo for remote monitoring.
  • Motion lighting: LED floodlights for deterrence.

Need a Secure Granny Annexe Design?

Explore Anx Space for custom-built, security-optimised granny annexes tailored to UK standards. From reinforced doors to pre-wired alarm setups, their designs prioritise elderly home safety.

Get expert advice from ANX Space to create a secure, comfortable annexe for your loved ones.