Selecting a safe based on its insurance rating depends on the intended purpose. Are you a business owner trying to protect valuables from theft? Or are you a homeowner who simply needs a place to store possessions that are out of children’s reach? Unlike burglary or fire ratings, safe ratings for insurance focus solely on the construction attributes. Some insurance companies will require a certain rating level to protect the valuables stored in a safe, so it’s crucial to understand what type of container you require. Let’s dig into the different types of safe ratings to help you narrow down your choices.
Understanding Safe Ratings for Insurance
Safe rating systems serve as standardized methods for assessing the security level and resistance of safes against various threats. One widely recognized rating system is the TL (Tool-Resistant) rating, which categorizes safes based on their resistance to forced entry using common tools like drills, torches, and other implements. TL ratings typically range from TL-15 to TL-60, with higher numbers indicating greater resistance and security.
B-Rated Safe
Starting at the lowest level of insurance ratings is the B-rated safes. This level still offers significant protection for residential, commercial, or industrial settings where moderate security is sufficient. In order to have the B level rating, a safe has to include a steel body that is ½” thick and a door that’s less than 1” thick. While it’s not the thickest safe available, this option strikes a balance between a good level of security and affordability.
DSF2516
C-Rated Safe
A C-rated safe is slightly more durable than a B-rated safe. This is because a safe must be built with a steel body that’s a ½” thick and a door at least 1” thick. This is a step up from the B level but it shares a similarity in offering moderate security suitable for various commercial and residential settings.
BLC3024
E-Rated Safe
E-rated is the third level that doesn’t undergo testing but is evaluated by the construction alone. In order for a safe to receive this certification, it must feature 1” thick walls and a door of at least 1 ½” thick.
UL RSC Level I
Established by the Underwriters Laboratories, an RSC Level 1-rated safe must withstand an attempted intrusion for at least 5 minutes. This involves UL technicians testing the safe by using mechanical and electrical hand tools to simulate an attack. There are also other requirements the safe must meet, including the type of lock and materials the container is constructed with.
BF1512
UL RSC Level II
As a step above the rating we just mentioned, the Underwriters Laboratories also has a RSC Level 2 rating. The only difference between this rating and the Level 1 alternative is that the safe must withstand any type of attack utilizing mechanical and electrical tools for at least 10 minutes. Construction requirements remain the same as the RSC Level 1 rating.
BFII6032
UL TL-15 Rated Safe
A TL-rated safe just means “Tool Resistant”, and there are varying levels of protection within this classification. This rating indicates that a safe can withstand a burglary attack involving various household tools for 15 minutes.
The makeup of these safes will not only feature steel but also a composite lining that ensures a higher level of security. AMSEC safes in particular pour concrete into the walls making the container less penetrable and heavier.
MAX1014
TL-30 Rated Safe
As the name implies, a TL-30 safe is similar to TL-15 but it can withstand an attack for up to 30 minutes. The same materials are typically used for construction, so there’s not much difference besides the fact that it has a higher level of durability against intruders.
CF1814
TL-30X6 Rated Safe
The TL-30X6 rating closely resembles the TL-30 standard, with the distinction being that TL-30X6 safes undergo testing on all sides of the container. Considered one of the most secure options available, it must endure assaults from every angle, including the floor, for a minimum of 30 minutes. Safes with a TL-30X6 rating are also required to stand strong against grinder and peeling attacks, further enhancing their reliability and durability.
CFX452020
TRTL Rated Safe
The difference between the safe ratings we listed above and the TRTL-rated safes is that this type of container requires specific tool- and torch-resistant requirements. These safes are evaluated on a scale, with each rating indicating the duration for which the safe can resist such attacks. For example, a UL TRTL-15×6 safe provides 15 minutes of protection against tool and torch attacks on all six sides, while a UL TRTL-60×6 safe offers 60 minutes of the same comprehensive protection. This categorization ensures that TRTL-rated safes are robust options for securing valuable items against more aggressive intrusion methods.
How Safe Ratings Impact Insurance Coverage and Premiums
Safes with higher ratings may allow for higher coverage limits. For instance, an insurance policy might offer more extensive coverage for items stored in a TL-30×6 safe compared to a TL-15 safe, reflecting the increased security provided. Here are some other ways safe ratings can impact your coverage:
Claims Processing
In the event of a theft or damage, having a high-security safe that meets insurance standards can streamline the claims process. Insurers are more likely to approve claims when it’s evident that the policyholder took substantial precautions to protect their assets. You as the policyholder may need to provide proof of the safe’s rating and installation to support their claim. A well-documented safe with a recognized rating can expedite this process and reduce disputes.
Mitigating Liability
This is more for commercial use cases, but in the event of a security breach, demonstrating that adequate security measures were in place can protect against claims of negligence and potential lawsuits. Plus, businesses that handle high-value goods (e.g., jewelers, pawn shops), should utilize high-security safes to provide assurance to customers and clients that their valuables are secure, which will also enhance the business’s reputation and customer trust.
Long-Term Cost Benefits
While high-rated safes may have higher upfront costs, the long-term savings in insurance premiums and the enhanced protection of valuable assets can outweigh the initial investment. As the policyholder, you can benefit from reduced premiums over time and fewer out-of-pocket expenses in the event of theft or damage. For homes and businesses, installing high security safes can boost property value and become an additional selling point.
Tips for Choosing the Right Safe for Insurance
Create a detailed list of the valuables you plan on securing within the safe. Assess the vulnerability of each item and that will help you determine what security level you require. Plus, evaluating the number of items you need to protect will streamline having to decide what size safe you require as well. When in doubt, consult with your insurance provider to ensure that the chosen safe meets their standards and qualifies for any available discounts or premium reductions.
Using a safe with inadequate security ratings or failing to implement sufficient security measures could result in reduced coverage or higher premiums. Insurance providers assess the risk associated with insuring valuable items based on factors such as the type of safe used, its rating, and the overall security setup of the premises. Therefore, choosing a safe with the appropriate rating can directly impact the cost and extent of insurance coverage.
Don’t hesitate to contact the AMSEC team for guidance on what type of safe would suit your specific needs. There are a lot of different types of safes available within our inventory with additional customization options at your disposal, so you want to make sure you’re purchasing the right fit.
Key Takeaways
Understanding safe ratings is crucial for securing comprehensive insurance coverage and potentially lowering premiums. Safes with high security ratings not only protect your valuables but also ensure compliance with insurance requirements, offering peace of mind and financial benefits. AMSEC stands out by providing top-quality safes, such as those with UL RSC II and UL TL-30×6 ratings. With a commitment to superior construction and rigorous testing, AMSEC ensures your assets are safeguarded against various threats, making them an ideal choice for both residential and commercial security needs.