Built to Last. Restored to Perform.
Reconditioning Process
Restored to Perform Like New. Certified to British Standards.
At Total Safes, every safe that leaves our facility has been through a rigorous, multi-stage reconditioning process carried out by our own professional safe engineers. We don’t cut corners. Every safe is inspected, stripped, serviced, and certified — then tested before it is approved for sale.
Our safe reconditioning process complies fully with BS 7582:2021, the British Standard for the reconditioning of security enclosures. This means your safe retains its original tested security grade under EN 1143-1, with no downgrade in protection.
Our Six-Stage Safe Reconditioning Process
Step 1
Initial Inspection & Verification
Every safe begins its journey with a thorough initial inspection. We confirm the make, model, and serial number, and cross-reference the data plate with the safe’s original certification to establish its authenticated security grade.
checkConfirm make, model, and serial number against the original data plate and certification
checkVerify the original EN 1143-1 security grade
- checkDocument any history of attacks, previous repairs, or modifications
- checkIdentify any pre-existing damage that will need to be addressed during reconditioning
- checkFlag any hazardous materials for safe handling in subsequent stages
This stage ensures complete traceability and sets the baseline for everything that follows. During the safe No safe progresses further until its identity and condition have been fully established.
Stage 2
Stripping & Cleaning
With the initial assessment complete, the safe is fully stripped back. Where practical, the door and body are separated to allow thorough internal inspection of both.
- checkDoor and body separated where practical and inspected internally
- checkAll old paint, rust, and surface residues removed down to bare metal
- checkInternal components stripped for individual inspection and servicing
- checkAsbestos check carried out in full compliance with Health & Safety regulations — older safes may contain asbestos-based insulating materials, which are identified and disposed of safely by qualified personnel
- checkAll hazardous materials handled and removed before any further work proceeds
Nothing is concealed by a fresh coat of paint. We strip everything back first — then we assess, then we repair.
stage 3
Structural Inspection & Repairs
This is where the integrity of the safe is verified and, where necessary, restored. Any compromise to the safe’s structure — whether from a past attack, repair, or general deterioration — is identified and addressed.
checkFull internal structural inspection, checking barrier material integrity throughout
checkAny areas compromised by previous attacks are cut out and rebuilt to the original specification
- checkBarrier materials replaced or reinforced where necessary to restore full protection
- checkHinges examined for wear, corrosion, and misalignment — adjusted or replaced as required
- checkDoor seals examined and replaced where necessary to maintain security and, where applicable, fire or water resistance ratings
- checkAll previous rework scrutinised to confirm it meets the required standard
A safe is only as strong as its weakest point. This stage ensures there are none.
Stage 4
Bolt Work & Lock Overhaul
The locking and bolt-work system is the heart of any safe’s security. Every component is stripped, inspected, and serviced — with new certified locks fitted as standard.
- checkAll bolt-work stripped, inspected, lubricated, and serviced — components repaired or replaced where required
- checkRe-locking devices (secondary security mechanisms that permanently lock the safe if an attack is detected) checked, re-set, and tested
- checkNew, certified high-quality locks fitted to every safe — old locking mechanisms are never reused
- checkNew combinations issued or new keys cut and supplied as appropriate
- checkFull operational check of the complete locking system before progressing to the next stage
New locks are fitted as standard on every safe we sell. This is non-negotiable.
stage 5
Finishing
With all structural and mechanical work complete, the safe is finished to a professional, durable standard inside and out.
checkFully re-sprayed in a durable, high-quality finish — the safe looks and feels like new
checkEscutcheons (the protective surrounds for locks and keyholes) replaced or upgraded
- checkHandles inspected and replaced where required
- checkNew fixing bolts supplied, ready for secure installation to floor or wall
- checkNew interior lining fitted where requested
The finish reflects the quality of the work beneath it. Every safe that leaves us is one we’re proud to put our name on.
Stage 6
Final Testing & Documentation
Before any safe is approved for sale, it undergoes a comprehensive operational test. Nothing leaves our facility without passing.
- checkFull operational test of bolt-work, lock function, and re-locking device performance
- checkDoor alignment and closure verified
- checkAll replaced components confirmed functional under test conditions
- checkA reconditioning certificate is issued, summarising all work carried out and confirming compliance with BS 7582:2021
- checkSecurity grade confirmed and documented — no downgrade, no exceptions
The certificate that accompanies your safe is your proof — and your insurer’s assurance — that the safe has been reconditioned to the current British Standard and retains its original security grade.
Security Grades & Certification
Certified, Guaranteed & Insurer Recognised
All Total Safes products reconditioned to BS 7582:2021 are listed on the official safe register of the Association of Insurance Surveyors, making them fully recognisable to UK insurance providers. Every safe comes with a 12 month warranty and a full reconditioning certificate.
This means:
- checkReconditioned to BS 7582:2021
- checkOriginal EN 1143-1 security grade retained — no downgrade
- checkRecognised by the Association of Insurance Surveyors
- check12 month warranty included as standard
- checkReconditioning certificate issued with every safe
If you want to experience the look, feel, variety, and craftsmanship of our reconditioned safes, visit one of our showrooms in Manchester or Bradford, or call to arrange an appointment at our Telford, Thurrock, or Glasgow depots.
Find Your Safe Today
Explore our catalogue of certified reconditioned safes and secure high-level protection for less.