Find emergency or 24-hour locksmiths

Emergency / 24 hour locksmith specialists - what you need to know

If you’re unfortunate enough to lock yourself out of your home (or need to repair a faulty or temperamental lock), then you’ll need the services of an emergency or 24-hour locksmith. Your knight in shining armour, they’ll arrive and rescue you or secure your home – depending on the jam you find yourself in. 

Locksmiths don’t just fix broken locks or cut new keys. They deal with all things security-related, from high-tech digital access systems and burglar alarms, to more traditional deadbolts and doorknobs – ensuring all bases are covered.

You might be tempted to do this kind of work yourself. But if locks are ill-fitted, you risk your security (as well as potentially invalidating your home and contents insurance). Find a professional locksmith, and they’ll be able to advise you on (and properly fit) the most appropriate locks for your house.

Cost of emergency locksmith services

An emergency locksmith should be available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The cost of hiring them will vary depending on the time of day and scope of the job.

Typical fees, labour only, are:

• Replace a budget lock: £100-£150+
• Replace an advanced anti-snap lock: £125-£175+
• Lost keys or remove a broken key (no new lock required): £50-£150+

Locksmith prices – what affects the quote? 

Your locksmith may charge more (or less) depending on:

• The size of the job. Many locksmiths charge an hourly rate, so changing one lock at your property could take an hour. Multiple changes, not surprisingly, can take several hours.
• Additional parts. Any parts that are required will also affect your quote. This is often necessary if you have a snapped lock or cylinder, or if a lock can’t be repaired. The specific lock needed will depend on what type of door you have (and, potentially, on your insurance policy).
• Call-out fees and 24-hour service charges. Emergency locksmiths are likely to charge a different fee for more inconvenient hours, usually between 6pm and 8am. They may include a call-out fee too.

While there are lots of variables when it comes to the cost of hiring an emergency locksmith, they should be able to accurately quote for the work upfront.

How to choose your locksmith

Here are some credentials to help you decide which locksmith is right for you.

• Specialists in the work you need. Some locksmiths may have extensive experience in alarm systems, while others will focus on replacing and repairing locks. There are also auto locksmiths who can help if you’re having problems with your car’s security.
• Emergency or 24-hour services. If the nature of your job is urgent, this is a must.
• An accreditation from the Master Locksmiths Association. MLA-accredited locksmiths must undergo comprehensive inspections, so you can trust their expertise.
• Warranty. Some locksmiths will offer a warranty on their work – it’s worth enquiring about this when your professional provides a quote.

The qualifications your locksmith needs

There are currently no legal regulations in the industry, meaning a locksmith doesn’t need a licence or qualifications. However, many locksmiths choose to gain training or accreditation through recognised bodies such as the MLA.

While MLA membership is a good indicator of a locksmith being well-established and reputable, it’s equally important to consider the experience they have built up.

Planning permission for locksmith jobs

You won’t require planning permission to change your locks, but you may require it when making more significant changes to your home (like replacing doors or windows).

Insurance for locksmith work

While a locksmith doesn’t require any legal insurance, a reputable tradesperson will have public liability insurance to protect against any accidental damage.

You’ll also need to review your home insurance documents, which will determine what type of locks and security measures are necessary for your policy.

Questions you should ask your locksmith

• Do they have public liability insurance?
• Do they have plenty of relevant experience?
• Can they provide a warranty on their work?
• Can they provide other services such as burglar alarms, and auto security?