PAS24 & Secured by Design: A Trade Guide to Security Standards

Did you know that developments built to Secured by Design standards experience up to 75% less burglary than equivalent non-SBD projects? For installers and developers across Kent and Sussex, understanding the technical overlap between PAS24 & Secured by Design – what are they and why are they important is essential for project success. You likely feel the pressure of Building Regulations Part Q compliance and the constant worry that non-compliant hardware could lead to costly site delays. It’s difficult to explain the value of security upgrades to end-clients when the standards themselves feel like a moving target.

We’re here to provide the technical clarity you need to avoid those pitfalls. This guide helps you master the critical differences between PAS24 and Secured by Design, ensuring your next project remains fully compliant and secure. You’ll gain a clear understanding of Part Q requirements and the ability to source certified uPVC and aluminium products with absolute confidence. We’ll examine the latest PAS 24:2022+A1:2024 updates, the SBD Homes 2026 framework, and the exact glazing specifications required to meet these rigorous, police-backed security standards.

What are PAS24 and Secured by Design?

Security is no longer a secondary consideration in UK construction. For developers and installers, understanding PAS24 & Secured by Design – what are they and why are they important is the first step toward achieving Part Q compliance. PAS24 is a minimum security standard for windows and doors. It provides a baseline for resistance against opportunistic attacks. Secured by Design (SBD) is a broader, police-backed initiative. It aims to reduce crime through effective environmental design and the use of high-quality, tested products.

In the competitive markets of Kent and Sussex, these standards are non-negotiable. They aren’t just boxes to tick for Building Control. They represent a commitment to the safety of the end-user. By adhering to these frameworks, trade professionals ensure that every uPVC and aluminium window installed meets a rigorous, independent benchmark. This builds a foundation of trust between the contractor and the client.

The Core Differences: Product vs. Initiative

The distinction between the two is vital. PAS24 focuses specifically on the physical performance of a doorset or window. It’s a pass/fail test. A product either resists the forced entry methods or it doesn’t. This testing aligns with foundational physical security principles that underpin the entire UK glazing industry. It ensures the frame, hardware, and glazing work as a single, resilient unit.

SBD is the “Police Preferred Specification.” It’s an initiative owned by the Association of Chief Police Officers. Whilst PAS24 is a technical standard, SBD is a certification scheme. To achieve SBD status, a product must first pass PAS24. However, SBD goes further by requiring third-party certification and regular factory audits. It’s the “Gold Standard” hierarchy. SBD uses PAS24 as its baseline but adds layers of accountability and consistency that a one-off test cannot provide.

Why Security Standards Matter for the Trade

For new-build contractors and developers, these standards reduce liability. Installing certified, tested systems protects your business from future claims. It ensures that the hardware you’ve sourced won’t fail under pressure. This reliability is essential for maintaining a professional reputation in the South East.

Marketability is another key driver. Homebuyers in Sussex are increasingly savvy about security. They look for the SBD logo as a sign of quality. Providing products that meet these criteria allows you to command a premium. It makes your projects stand out. You aren’t just selling a window; you’re selling peace of mind. High-performance glazing systems that meet these standards are more durable and offer better long-term value, reducing the likelihood of expensive remedial call-outs.

PAS24 Explained: The Technical Security Benchmark

PAS24 is a Publicly Available Specification that sets the standard for the enhanced security performance of doorsets and windows. Unlike standard tests that might focus on a single component, PAS24 evaluates the entire assembly. This is known as the “doorset” concept. It means the frame, hardware, and glazing are tested together as a complete unit. If you’re wondering about PAS24 & Secured by Design – what are they and why are they important, the answer lies in this holistic approach. A high-security lock is useless if the frame can be easily jemmied or the glass popped out from the exterior.

The standard ensures that products can resist the most common methods of opportunistic forced entry. It’s a pass/fail benchmark. This creates a clear line of quality for trade professionals. When you source a PAS24-certified product, you’re getting a system that has survived a series of brutal, simulated attacks. This certification is the primary route to demonstrating compliance with Building Regulations Approved Document Q.

The Testing Process: Simulating Real-World Attacks

Testing is rigorous and methodical. It’s designed to mimic the behaviour of a burglar. The cycle includes several key stages:

• Manual Intervention: A technician attempts to gain entry using common burglary tools. This includes three-minute attack windows using chisels, screwdrivers, and knives to target known vulnerabilities.
• Mechanical Loading: Machines apply significant pressure to locking points and hinges. This checks if the hardware can withstand being forced or pried open under extreme parallel and perpendicular loads.
• Impact Testing: Both “soft body” and “hard body” impacts are used. A 50kg pendulum hits the doorset to ensure the structure doesn’t buckle or shatter under blunt force.

The latest PAS 24:2022+A1:2024 amendment even includes specific tests for cylinder vulnerability. This reflects the evolving tactics used by criminals in 2026. For any accessible doors, the standard now requires at least one pane of 6.8mm laminated glass. Standard 6.4mm glass is no longer sufficient for compliance.

Material Matters: uPVC vs. Aluminium PAS24 Compliance

Different materials require different engineering to meet these benchmarks. Aluminium windows often achieve PAS24 status through their inherent structural strength. The material’s rigidity allows for slimmer profiles without compromising on security. In contrast, uPVC casement windows rely on internal steel or aluminium reinforcement and advanced multi-point locking systems to reach the same level of resistance.

Internal beading is a non-negotiable requirement for both materials. This ensures the glazing cannot be removed from the outside. By choosing the right material for your Sussex project, you can balance aesthetics with the heavy-duty requirements of Secured by Design standards. You can view our full range of certified units on our trade pricing page to ensure your next build stays on track and within budget.

Secured by Design: The Police Preferred Specification

Whilst PAS24 provides the technical foundation, Secured by Design (SBD) is the police-led initiative that elevates security to a project-wide standard. Owned by the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO), SBD acts as a “Police Preferred Specification.” It bridges the gap between hardware testing and real-world crime prevention. For those asking PAS24 & Secured by Design – what are they and why are they important, the answer lies in the rigorous accountability SBD demands. It’s not enough for a product to pass a test once; manufacturers must undergo annual factory audits to ensure every unit off the line matches the tested prototype.

This initiative takes a holistic view of safety. It isn’t restricted to the strength of a lock or the structural integrity of a frame. SBD considers the entire environment, including street lighting, estate layout, and even landscaping. This comprehensive strategy is why SBD is frequently mandated for social housing and major residential developments across Kent. It aligns perfectly with the requirements of Approved Document Q, providing a clear pathway for developers to satisfy local planning authorities.

The Three SBD Standards: Gold, Silver, and Bronze

SBD isn’t a one-size-fits-all accreditation. It offers three distinct tiers to suit different project needs:

• Gold: The ultimate achievement. It requires full compliance with both the physical security of the building shell and the environmental design of the surrounding area.
• Silver: This tier focuses purely on the physical security of the building. It ensures that products like composite doors and windows meet the required resistance benchmarks.
• Bronze: Often used for refurbishments, this level mandates that specific product types meet SBD’s security requirements even if the wider environment doesn’t.

The Value of SBD Certification for Developers

The data supports the investment. SBD-compliant areas have seen a proven reduction in crime rates by up to 87% compared to non-accredited developments. This statistic is a powerful selling point when marketing new homes in East Sussex. Beyond safety, SBD status can lead to lower insurance premiums for homeowners, adding tangible value to the property. It’s the ultimate proof of why understanding PAS24 & Secured by Design – what are they and why are they important matters for the modern developer.

A secure property is the ideal place to store and enjoy high-quality personal treasures; to discover examples of fine handcrafted work, you can learn more about Thomas Jewellery.

Using SBD-certified aluminium bi-folding doors or entrance systems demonstrates a proactive approach to tenant safety. It reduces the long-term cost of maintenance and replacement. Most importantly, it builds a reputation for quality. When you source through a specialist supplier, you ensure that every component is backed by the police-preferred mark of excellence.

Regulatory Compliance: Part Q and PAS24 vs SBD

For new-build contractors and developers, the legal landscape is defined by Approved Document Q. This regulation mandates that all new dwellings must be built with reasonable provision to resist unauthorised access. PAS24 is the primary technical route used to demonstrate this compliance. Whilst you might hear both terms used interchangeably, understanding PAS24 & Secured by Design – what are they and why are they important is critical for passing building control inspections without delays. Part Q is a mandatory legal requirement; Secured by Design (SBD) is a voluntary police initiative that often exceeds these legal minimums.

Documenting compliance requires more than just a verbal assurance. You must provide valid test evidence from your composite door suppliers and window manufacturers. This documentation must prove the specific product configurations installed on-site match those that were laboratory tested. Building control officers in Kent will look for these certificates to ensure the project meets the required safety benchmarks before sign-off.

Navigating Part Q for New-Build Contractors

The regulation applies specifically to “easily accessible” windows and doors. This includes any aperture on the ground floor, basement level, or within 2 metres of a flat surface, such as a garage roof or balcony. These units must be PAS24 certified. A key requirement for meeting this standard in accessible areas is the use of laminated glass. Under the latest PAS 24:2022+A1:2024 specifications, at least one pane must be a minimum of 6.8mm thick (Class P1A). Standard toughened glass is insufficient. It shatters on impact, whereas laminated glass remains held within the frame, maintaining the physical security of the envelope.

PAS24 vs SBD: A Quick Comparison for Specifiers

It is a common misconception that PAS24 and SBD are the same. A simple rule of thumb is that every SBD-accredited product is PAS24 compliant, but not every PAS24 product meets SBD standards. The difference lies in the rigour of the oversight. SBD requires ongoing accountability that a one-off laboratory test does not provide. Use the table below to identify which standard your Sussex project requires.

Specifying SBD over standard PAS24 is a strategic move for high-risk areas or social housing projects where long-term durability and police-backed assurance are valued. It ensures that the manufacturing quality remains consistent years after the initial test was conducted.

Speak to our technical team about Part Q compliance

Sourcing Certified Glazing: The Trade Tech Windows & Doors Advantage

Precision matters. Speed counts. Reliability is non-negotiable. At Trade Tech Windows & Doors, we understand that trade professionals in Kent and East Sussex don’t have time for non-compliant hardware or vague technical advice. We provide high-performance, PAS24-ready trade windows and doors designed to meet the strictest security benchmarks. Navigating the complexities of PAS24 & Secured by Design – what are they and why are they important is straightforward when you have access to a specialist supplier. We act as your technical partner, ensuring every unit you install is fully certified and fit for purpose.

Our supply chain is built for efficiency. Whether you’re managing large-scale residential developments or bespoke commercial projects, we deliver precision-engineered systems on time. We don’t just sell products; we provide the technical specification documents you need to satisfy building control and secure project sign-off. This proactive support reduces the risk of site delays and ensures your project remains on schedule.

High-Security uPVC and Aluminium Solutions

Security starts with the right specification. We offer PAS24-certified casement windows that blend traditional aesthetics with modern resistance. These units feature multi-point locking systems and internal beading as standard. For more expansive openings, our aluminium bi-folding doors offer the perfect balance of thermal efficiency and structural strength. They are designed to withstand the rigorous manual and mechanical testing required by current UK standards.

Hardware is the frontline of physical security. We ensure every handle, hinge, and lock meets the required PAS24:2022+A1:2024 standards. This includes high-security cylinders designed to resist modern attack methods like snapping or drilling. By sourcing a complete, tested doorset from Trade Tech Windows & Doors, you eliminate the risk of mixing incompatible components that could compromise the entire installation’s integrity. It’s a comprehensive approach that guarantees performance.

For developers and contractors seeking high-performance systems in other regions, specialists like View Glazing offer similar expertise in supplying and installing secure, PAS24-compliant windows and doors for both residential and commercial projects.

Supporting Your Project from Quote to Installation

We know the pressures of the South East construction industry. Delays cost money. That’s why we prioritise fast turnarounds on quotes and technical specs. Our local expertise allows us to understand the specific requirements of Sussex developers, from coastal weather-rating needs to urban security specifications. We provide the necessary certification evidence for Approved Document Q compliance, ensuring your building control approval process is seamless. We provide the tools, the products, and the technical backing you need to succeed.

Contact Trade Tech Windows & Doors today for a professional quote on your next project

Secure Your Next Project with Technical Precision

Successfully navigating the complexities of PAS24 & Secured by Design – what are they and why are they important is the hallmark of a professional installer. You now possess the technical insight to differentiate between mandatory physical testing and broader police-backed initiatives. This understanding ensures your specifications remain robust, compliant, and perfectly aligned with the latest security amendments without the risk of site delays.

Trade Tech Windows & Doors serves as your expert partner across Kent and Sussex. We provide a comprehensive range of PAS24-certified glazing solutions supported by direct trade pricing and technical documentation. Our focus on speed and precision helps you maintain project momentum whilst meeting every regulatory hurdle with confidence. You can focus on the build whilst we handle the precision engineering of your glazing requirements.

Request a trade quote for PAS24-compliant glazing

Strengthen your project’s security credentials today. We are ready to provide the high-performance systems and professional support your next development requires.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is PAS24 a legal requirement for all new windows?

PAS24 is a legal requirement for all new dwellings under Building Regulations Approved Document Q. This mandate applies specifically to “easily accessible” windows, which includes ground floor units and those reachable via flat roofs or balconies. For extensions or refurbishments, PAS24 is not always a strict legal requirement, but it remains the industry benchmark for ensuring project security and durability.

What is the difference between PAS24 and Secured by Design?

PAS24 is a technical performance standard that tests the physical resistance of a doorset or window in a laboratory. Secured by Design is a broader police-led initiative that requires PAS24 as a baseline but adds extra scrutiny through annual factory audits. Understanding PAS24 & Secured by Design – what are they and why are they important helps you distinguish between a one-off test and a scheme involving ongoing manufacturing accountability.

Does my project need to be Secured by Design to meet Building Regs Part Q?

Your project does not legally require Secured by Design accreditation to satisfy Building Regulations Part Q. Compliance is achieved by installing products that meet PAS24:2022 standards or an equivalent benchmark. Whilst SBD is a voluntary enhancement, many developers in Kent choose it to exceed the minimum legal requirements and add significant marketing value to their new-build homes.

Are all composite doors PAS24 compliant by default?

Not all composite doors are PAS24 compliant by default. Certification applies to the entire “doorset” rather than just the door slab itself. A door only achieves PAS24 status if the specific combination of slab, frame, and multi-point locking hardware has been tested as a single, integrated unit. Always request valid test evidence from your supplier to ensure the specific configuration you’ve ordered is certified.

What tools are used in a PAS24 manual attack test?

Technicians use a specific set of common burglary tools during a PAS24 manual attack test to simulate an opportunistic break-in. These include 25mm chisels, various screwdrivers, and craft knives. The test involves two separate three-minute attack windows where the technician attempts to create an entry-sized gap or manipulate the locking mechanism to gain access through the frame or glazing.

Can I upgrade existing windows to meet PAS24 standards?

You cannot technically upgrade an existing window to meet PAS24 standards after it has been installed. The certification is based on the performance of a factory-assembled unit that has undergone rigorous laboratory testing as a complete doorset. Whilst you can improve physical security by adding high-specification locks or laminated glass, the window will not be officially PAS24 certified unless it was manufactured as a tested unit.

How do I know if a window supplier is truly SBD certified?

You can verify a supplier’s status by checking the official Secured by Design member list on their website. A truly certified supplier will hold a valid SBD licence and be able to provide a certificate of compliance for their specific product ranges. This ensures the manufacturer undergoes the required annual factory audits to maintain their status and ensures the products you source meet the “Police Preferred Specification” criteria.

What does ‘Police Preferred Specification’ actually mean for my client?

The “Police Preferred Specification” means the product has been vetted by the police to ensure it effectively “designs out crime.” For your client, this translates to a statistically lower risk of burglary and potentially reduced home insurance premiums. It signals that the windows and doors have been built to a standard that prioritises long-term resident safety and structural resilience against modern attack methods.