What Is a Safe Cash Rating?
A cash rating is a security classification used to indicate how much money or valuables a safe can securely store. It is an essential factor that insurers use to determine coverage limits for stored items.
A safe’s cash rating is based on its resistance to burglary, construction quality, and independent security testing. In general, insurance companies follow a 10:1 rule, meaning the valuables rating is ten times the safe’s cash rating.
For example:
• A £10,000 cash-rated safe can be insured to hold up to £100,000 worth of valuables.
• A £2,000 cash-rated safe is suitable for up to £20,000 in valuables.
Safe Cash Ratings and Their Insurance Coverage
Cash ratings are assigned based on independent testing and certification by recognised security bodies, such as:
• EN 1143-1 – The European standard for high-security safes (Eurograde-rated).
• BS EN 14450 – The standard for domestic security cabinets (S1 & S2 safes).
Eurograde Safe Ratings (EN 1143-1)
Eurograde Safe Ratings (EN 1143-1)Eurograde safes are some of the most secure safes available, tested against burglary attacks using sophisticated tools. They are recommended for high-value storage in homes and businesses.
| Eurograde | Cash Rating | Valuables Rating (10x Cash) |
| Grade 0 | £6,000 | £60,000 |
| Grade 1 | £10,000 | £100,000 |
| Grade 2 | £17,500 | £175,000 |
| Grade 3 | £35,000 | £350,000 |
| Grade 4 | £60,000 | £600,000 |
| Grade 5 | £100,000 | £1,000,000 |
| Grade 6 | £150,000 | £1,500,000 |
Security Cabinet Ratings (BS EN 14450)
For home use or small businesses, security cabinets provide a moderate level of protection. They are more affordable than Eurograde safes but still offer certified security.
| Security Level | Cash Rating | Valuables Rating (10x Cash) |
| S1 | £2,000 | £20,000 |
| S2 | £4,000 | £40,000 |
What Can You Store in a Safe?
A certified safe can protect a wide range of valuables beyond just cash. Items you may want to secure include:
High-Value Assets
- Jewellery & Watches – Protect expensive jewellery from theft or damage.
- Gold, Silver & Precious Metals – Store bullion and coins securely.
Important Documents
- Passports & ID Cards – Prevent identity theft.
- Property Deeds & Wills – Keep essential legal documents safe.
Electronics & Data Storage
- USB Drives & Hard Drives – Protect digital backups.
- Laptops & Tablets – Store expensive devices securely.
Firearm & Ammunition Storage
- If you own firearms, UK law requires them to be stored in an approved gun safe with the correct certification.
Safe Sizes: Choosing the Right Fit
Safes come in a variety of sizes, and selecting the correct one depends on:
- What you plan to store – Ensure it has enough space for your valuables.
- Available installation space – Consider placement in your home or business.
Small Safes (5-20L Capacity)
- Ideal for cash, passports, and small valuables.
- Commonly used as hotel safes or personal home safes.
Medium Safes (20-50L Capacity)
- Can hold jewellery, small laptops, or important documents.
- Suitable for home and small business use.
Large Safes (50L+ Capacity)
- Designed for bulk cash storage, firearms, or large valuables.
- Often used in commercial environments or high-value homes.
Safe Installation Requirements
For a safe to be fully effective, correct installation is crucial. Insurers may require specific installation conditions to provide full coverage.
Installation Factors to Consider
- Bolting Down the Safe
- Most insurers require the safe to be bolted to the floor or wall.
- A non-secured safe can be removed by burglars.
- Weight Considerations
- Heavier safes (500kg+) may not need bolting but must be positioned on a strong, stable surface.
- Location Selection
- Avoid easily accessible areas (e.g., hallways, under stairs).
- Ideal locations include wardrobes, basements, or hidden compartments.
Choosing the Right Safe for Your Needs
When purchasing a safe, consider the following:
✅ Cash Rating – Ensure it meets your insurance policy requirements.
✅ Size & Capacity – Pick a size that accommodates your valuables.
✅ Fire Protection – Some safes offer fire resistance for documents & digital media.
✅ Locking Mechanism – Choose from key locks, digital keypads, or biometric fingerprint locks.
✅ Installation Requirements – Verify bolting instructions and weight limitations.
Final Thoughts
Understanding cash ratings is vital when purchasing a safe, especially if you require insurance coverage. Whether you need a small home safe, a Eurograde-rated high-security safe, or a fireproof model, selecting the right one will provide peace of mind and financial security.
If you need further guidance, speak to a safe specialist or your insurance provider to ensure you meet all necessary requirements.
Contact us or call today on 01733 552728 to speak with a safe expert.
What does the cash rating of a safe mean?
A cash rating is a security classification that indicates how much cash an insurer is likely to cover if stored in the safe overnight. It also determines the amount of valuables that can be insured, typically at 10 times the cash rating.
What is the difference between Eurograde and S1/S2 safes?
- Eurograde safes (EN 1143-1) offer higher security levels, ranging from Grade 0 (£6,000 cash rating) to Grade 6 (£150,000 cash rating).
- S1 & S2 safes (BS EN 14450) provide moderate security, with S1 rated for £2,000 and S2 for £4,000 in cash storage.
Can I store jewellery and valuables in a cash-rated safe?
Yes! Insurers typically allow you to store valuables worth 10 times the safe’s cash rating. For example, a £10,000 cash-rated safe can be insured for storing £100,000 worth of jewellery, watches, or documents.
What size safe should I buy?
Consider:
✅ Small safes (5-20L) – For cash, passports, and small valuables.
✅ Medium safes (20-50L) – For documents, laptops, and jewellery.
✅ Large safes (50L+) – For bulk cash storage, firearms, or business use.
Are fireproof safes different from burglary-resistant safes?
Yes. Burglary-resistant safes protect against theft, while fireproof safes are designed to withstand extreme heat and protect documents and digital media from fire damage.
How do I choose the right locking mechanism?
🔑 Key Lock – Traditional but secure.
🔢 Digital Keypad – Easy access, PIN-protected.
🖐 Biometric (Fingerprint) – High security, quick access.
Will my safe be covered by insurance?
To be insurance-approved, a safe should:
- Have a recognised cash rating.
- Be bolted down according to insurance requirements.
- Be installed in a secure location.
