Night Latches

Black Traditional Case Night Latch, from our current range.

What is a night latch?

A night latch, often called a Yale-style lock after the best-known brand, is a surface-mounted latch fitted to the face of a door, self-locking as the door closes so it does not need to be locked deliberately each time. It is released from the inside by a handle or knob, and from the outside by key, and is one of the most familiar lock types on UK front doors, usually fitted as a secondary lock alongside a mortice lock or deadlock for better security.

Night latches come in both plain, modern case styles and more decorative period-style cases to suit character properties.

Where night latches are used

• Front doors – the most familiar application, usually paired with a mortice lock or deadlock for full security
• Communal entrances – flats and shared buildings commonly use night latches for everyday access
• Period properties – traditional cased versions suit character doors while still offering modern security

Choosing the right night latch

A few practical points are worth checking before you buy:

• Case style – modern and traditional case designs are both widely available
• Deadlocking function – some night latches include a snib or deadlocking feature to prevent the latch being forced or slipped
• Backset – check the distance from the door edge to the centre of the cylinder matches your door
• Pairing with a mortice lock – for best security, fit alongside a separate mortice lock rather than relying on a night latch alone

Related products

Browse Night Latches via search, or see the related Rim Locks guide.

Frequently asked questions

Is a night latch secure enough on its own?

A standard night latch alone is generally not considered sufficient security for a front door and is best fitted alongside a mortice lock or deadlock rated to British Standard.

What does "deadlocking" mean on a night latch?

A deadlocking night latch has an additional feature that locks the latch bolt in place, preventing it being forced back or slipped with a card, adding a meaningful security improvement over a basic latch.

Can a night latch be fitted to a glazed door?

Yes, provided there is a suitable flat area of door face to mount the case and cylinder, night latches can generally be fitted to glazed as well as solid doors.

Back to the Locks & Security Guide, or explore the full Knowledge Centre.