Part Q Security Standards for Dwellings
Door and window security requirements for new dwellings in England, including PAS 24 standards, letter plate specifications, and accessible window requirements, referencing Approved Document Q: Security in Dwellings (2015 edition).
Door Security Requirements (AD-Q Section 1)
| Requirement | Standard | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All external doorsets | PAS 24:2016 | Includes front, rear, side doors |
| Door to garage (if integral/attached) | PAS 24:2016 | Door from garage into dwelling |
| Communal entrance doors (flats) | PAS 24:2016 + access control | Audio/visual entry system recommended |
| Cylinder security | TS 007 3-star or equivalent | Anti-snap, anti-pick, anti-bump, anti-drill |
| Multi-point locking | Integral to PAS 24 doorset | At least 3 locking points |
Window Security Requirements (AD-Q Section 2)
| Window Location | PAS 24 Required? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ground floor | Yes | All ground-floor windows |
| Basement | Yes | All basement windows |
| Accessible from balcony/flat roof | Yes | Within 3.5 m of ground/accessible surface |
| Adjacent to drainpipe (within reach) | Yes | If a drainpipe provides easy access |
| Upper floor (not accessible) | No | Lockable handles recommended |
Letter Plate and Door Hardware (AD-Q)
| Feature | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Letter plate | Restricted aperture or internal cowl to prevent lock manipulation through the letter box |
| Door viewer (spy hole) | Recommended for front doors without glazed vision panel |
| Door chain / limiter | Recommended for front doors |
| Hinge bolts | Integral to PAS 24 doorset (prevent hinge-side attack) |
| Door frame fixing | Secure fixing to structure — integral to PAS 24 installation requirements |
Secured by Design (SBD) — Optional Enhanced Standard
Secured by Design is a police-backed initiative that goes beyond Part Q requirements. SBD certification requires PAS 24 doors and windows plus additional measures such as perimeter fencing, lighting, landscaping design, and access control. Many local authorities require SBD compliance through planning conditions, particularly for social housing.
Related Calculators
Use the Part M Door Widths reference for accessibility requirements, or the Part B Fire Resistance Ratings for fire door specifications.
Always check the latest edition of Approved Documents on the Planning Portal (planningportal.co.uk) as regulations are updated periodically.
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Last updated: April 2026
All calculations are estimates. Verify with your supplier.