PAS 24 Security Rating
When choosing a security door for residential or light commercial buildings, one of the most recognised UK standards is PAS 24.
PAS 24 is a security performance standard that tests doors and windows against common methods used by opportunistic burglars. A door that meets PAS 24 has been independently tested to resist forced entry attempts using a defined series of attack methods.
For steel security doors, PAS 24 certification provides confidence that the door has been designed and manufactured to withstand typical burglary techniques.
What Is PAS 24?
PAS 24 is a UK security standard developed by the British Standards Institution (BSI).
The current version is:
PAS 24:2016 – Enhanced security performance requirements for doorsets and windows in the UK
It sets out testing methods designed to simulate the types of attack typically used during opportunistic break-ins.
What Does PAS 24 Testing Involve?
During PAS 24 testing, a complete door assembly is tested, including:
- Door leaf
- Frame
- Locks
- Hinges
- Hardware
- Glazing (if fitted)
Testing includes:
Mechanical Load Testing
- Pressure is applied to simulate attempts to force the door.
Impact Testing
- Repeated impacts simulate kicking or shoulder force.
Manual Attack Testing
- Testers use tools such as screwdrivers and crowbars to attempt entry.
Locking System Testing
- Multi-point locking systems and cylinders are tested to ensure they resist tampering.
The goal is to replicate common burglary techniques used in real-world break-ins.
PAS 24 and Secured by Design
PAS 24 is closely associated with the Secured by Design (SBD) initiative.
Secured by Design is a police-backed security scheme that promotes crime prevention through better building design.
Many Secured by Design specifications require:
- PAS 24 certified doors and windows
- Tested locking systems
- Verified installation standards
For residential developments, PAS 24 compliance is often expected.
Where PAS 24 Steel Doors Are Used
PAS 24 rated steel doors are commonly specified for:
- New housing developments
- Apartment buildings
- Residential entrance doors
- Utility room access doors
- Garage access doors
- Student accommodation
- Low-risk commercial premises
For higher-risk commercial environments, higher security standards such as LPS 1175 may be more appropriate.
Why Steel Doors Perform Well Under PAS 24
Steel doors are particularly suited to PAS 24 compliance because they provide:
- High structural strength
- Resistance to forced entry
- Durable locking system integration
- Long service life
- Minimal warping or movement
When properly manufactured and installed, steel doors can exceed the performance required for PAS 24 certification.
PAS 24 vs Other Security Standards
- It is important to understand where PAS 24 sits among security standards.
PAS 24 - Residential security doors - LPS 1175 - High security commercial buildings
- EN 1627 European burglary resistance
- Secured by Design - Police-backed security specification
PAS 24 is typically the minimum enhanced security standard for residential doors.
Installation Matters
PAS 24 certification applies to the complete tested door assembly.
Security performance can be compromised if:
- Frames are incorrectly installed
- Locks are substituted
- Fixings are inadequate
- Installation does not match the tested configuration
For this reason, professional installation is essential.
Common Specification Mistakes
We frequently see:
- Doors described as “PAS 24 style” but not tested
- Incorrect frame fixing methods
- Locks upgraded without test evidence
- Doors supplied without certification documentation
Always confirm that the door has been fully tested and certified to PAS 24.
Need Advice on PAS 24 Steel Security Doors?
If you are specifying doors for:
- Housing developments
- Apartment buildings
- Student accommodation
- Residential refurbishments
We can advise on PAS 24 compliant steel doors designed to meet modern security standards.
Contact us to discuss your project requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does PAS 24 mean for a steel door?
What does PAS 24 mean for a steel door?
PAS 24 certification means the door has been independently tested to resist common burglary methods.
The test assesses the complete door assembly, including the door leaf, frame, locks, hinges and hardware, to ensure it can withstand manual attack, impact forces and forced entry attempts.
Is PAS 24 required under Building Regulations?
Is PAS 24 required under Building Regulations?
PAS 24 itself is not a legal requirement, but it is widely used to demonstrate compliance with Approved Document Q (Security – Dwellings).
Many housing developments and apartment schemes require doors and windows to meet PAS 24 to satisfy security requirements.
What types of buildings typically require PAS 24 doors?
What types of buildings typically require PAS 24 doors?
PAS 24 doors are commonly used in:
- New housing developments
- Apartment buildings
- Student accommodation
- Residential refurbishments
- Utility and garage access doors
For higher-risk commercial premises, more advanced standards such as LPS 1175 may be required instead.
Does PAS 24 apply to the door leaf only?
Does PAS 24 apply to the door leaf only?
No.
PAS 24 testing applies to the entire doorset, including:
- Door leaf
- Frame
- Locks and cylinders
- Hinges
- Hardware and fixings
Changing any components outside the tested configuration can affect compliance.
How do I know if a steel door is genuinely PAS 24 certified?
How do I know if a steel door is genuinely PAS 24 certified?
A compliant door should have:
- Independent test certification
- Supporting documentation from the manufacturer
- Details of the tested doorset configuration
- CE or UKCA marking where applicable
Always request certification evidence rather than relying on marketing claims.
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