SKG** and A2P certification: what are they really worth in Belgium?
Two labels, one goal: resist break-ins
In Belgium, two certifications dominate the high-security cylinder market: SKG (Dutch) and A2P (French CNPP). Both test resistance against realistic break-in attempts — picking, drilling, pulling, bumping.
SKG: the star system
- SKG* (1 star): basic resistance, 3 minutes with common tools
- SKG** (2 stars): reinforced resistance, 5 minutes including drilling and pulling — the recommended level for a front door in Brussels
- SKG*** (3 stars): commercial/sensitive building, 10 minutes
A2P: the star system
- A2P 1 star: 5 minutes
- A2P 2 stars: 10 minutes
- A2P 3 stars: 15 minutes — for safes and sensitive buildings
What your insurer expects
Most home insurance contracts in Belgium require at least an SKG** cylinder or A2P 2-star equivalent on the main front door to cover break-in theft without an increased excess. Some insurers (AG, Ethias, DVV) also request an Incert certificate for alarm systems — a separate Belgian label for installers.
How to check a product?
The label must be physically engraved on the cylinder (not just the box). Ask your locksmith for the technical sheet and keep it with the invoice. At VanDirk we systematically fit SKG**/A2P cylinders and provide the certificate with the invoice. See our high-security cylinders.
