A cash rating is a term used to try and assist with measuring or rating the level of security offered by a particular safe, based on the materials used in the construction, the strength and type of locking devices fitted as well as resistance to any other possible methods of entry. These ratings enable you to easily compare different safes and what level of security they will provide.
While ratings are applied using dollar amounts, it is important to make sure you make your own decision on which level of security is most suitable for the level of risk you think you will be exposed to.
It is also very important to note that in Australia, there isn’t any official testing body that applies certified cash ratings to safes. Ratings are provided by the manufacturer and while they do make reasonable assessments based on industry comparisons to try and apply an accurate figure, there can sometimes be inflated or misleading ratings applied.
Make sure to ask the question as to why a particular rating was applied and how it compares to other models. Also, always consult your individual insurance company to determine if they have specific requirements for a safe when insuring cash or valuable items.