How to choose a safe for your home?
Start with the contents, location, size and practical possibility of anchoring the safe.
A home safe should be chosen based on its contents and the risks it needs to protect against. Only then should you compare dimensions, the lock and the installation location.
Make a list of the contents
Count folders, documents, jewellery boxes, cash and equipment. Measure the largest item. Internal dimensions are always smaller than external dimensions, so allow extra space for the next few years.
Determine the protection required
For everyday documents and small valuables, a quality home safe may be suitable. Where there is a higher risk of theft, look for a certified burglary-resistance grade. For paper documents that need to survive a fire, tested fire resistance is required.
Choose the location before buying
Check the load-bearing capacity of the floor or furniture, the door opening direction and access to anchoring points. A small unanchored safe is easy to carry away. For a flat, a home safe is often suitable; during renovation, you can plan for an built-in model.
Lock and everyday habits
A key lock does not require batteries, but the key should be stored separately. An electronic lock is convenient for frequent use, but you need to monitor the power supply and keep the code confidential. Do not leave a spare key or written code near the safe.
Before ordering
- compare internal and external dimensions;
- check the weight, anchoring holes and delivery route;
- review the certificate and lock documentation;
- decide whether professional installation is required.
A more comprehensive guide is available in the article how to choose a safe. For smaller storage needs, also see mini safes.
