By Twistie Locksmith Enmore · Updated 16 October 2026
Terraces are what make Enmore, Newtown and much of the Inner West so loved. They also come with security quirks that newer homes don't have. Here's what we look for when we visit.
The front door
Many terrace front doors are narrow, solid timber doors with an original rim lock or a basic deadlatch. A deadlatch alone can sometimes be slipped. Adding a quality deadlock, fitted to suit the door's thickness and style, makes a big difference without changing the look from the street.
The back door and the lane
Back doors facing rear lanes are often the real weak point: out of sight, with older locks and timber frames. Use a deadlock, a reinforced strike plate and, if the frame is soft, a jamb repair.
The rear gate
A back gate onto a laneway gives an intruder privacy to work on your back door. A sturdy gate lock or a good padlock and hasp is a cheap fix.
Sash windows
Old double-hung sash windows can often be opened from outside with little effort. Sash window locks are small and neat, inexpensive, and still let you open the window partway for air.
Skylights and upstairs balconies
Terraces sit close together, so a neighbour's roof can give access to your balcony door. Make sure balcony doors have proper locks, not just a latch.
Want a second opinion?
Twistie Locksmith is based on Enmore Rd and works on terraces every week. Call 02 9169 2871 or read about our home security upgrades.