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Locksmith
A locksmith is a professional who makes and repairs locks, creates keys, and installs and maintains security systems. They are called upon for tasks such as unlocking homes and cars, re-keying locks, and installing more sophisticated security hardware. Locksmiths need strong mechanical aptitude, problem-solving skills, and attention to detail, as well as customer service skills to interact with clients.
What is a locksmith?
A locksmith is a professional tradesperson who works with locks for a living – whether that be fitting locks, opening locks, carrying out lock repairs or any other lock-related jobs.
A door locksmith deals with the locks on buildings (including both doors and windows). Often, they'll be trained in dealing with both domestic and commercial locks, so you can call the same person whether you need help with a lock on your house or office. On the other hand, an auto locksmith only deals with locks on automobiles such as cars, vans and motorbikes.
Locksmiths can either work from a shop or they might offer a mobile locksmith service. In some cases, they'll do both!
Copyright Checkatrade. Using this information in an article or blog? Please add a link back to https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/hiring-guides/locksmith/
What does a locksmith do?
Locksmiths spend a lot of their time helping people who've been locked out of their homes. They're typically the first person to call if you've lost your keys or locked them inside (other than your housemate to check if they have a spare key, of course!).
However, locksmiths also carry out many other lock-related tasks. Popular locksmith services include:
Key cutting (including keys for garage door locks, window locks and padlocks)
Cutting, programming and repairing car keys
Fitting, opening and repairing safes
Installing access control systems
Door unlocking/lock open service
Emergency car opening
Lock repair service
Lock fitting
Emergency lock replacement
Advising on security options
Door unlocking services
If you've sadly found yourself sat on your doorstep wishing your keys were in your hand, you're probably going to need the help of a locksmith sooner rather than later (by which we mean immediately!). Luckily, most local locksmiths will offer a house lockout service to get you back indoors as quickly as possible – often with the help of an emergency lock replacement.
Emergency callouts tend to come with an additional fee that you'll need to factor in, especially if it's outside of standard business hours. But when it comes to getting you back inside your home sweet home, it'll be worth the price. Even so, it's a good idea to confirm upfront how much they charge for their lockout service, so you're not left with an unexpected bill at the end.
Copyright Checkatrade. Using this information in an article or blog? Please add a link back to https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/hiring-guides/locksmith/
How to find a good local locksmith
When it comes to finding a local locksmith, it's important that you hire someone you can trust. Here are a few tried-and-tested ways to find a good locksmith in your area.
Ask your friends and family. Getting recommendations from people you know can give you confidence in who you're hiring.
Read online reviews. Checking what people are saying about the locksmiths in your area can give you a good indication of the best locksmiths near you.
Use Checkatrade! Using our online search is a great way to find a professional locksmith service that you can rely on.
Before a locksmith can join Checkatrade, we run 14 checks to check that they provide excellent quality service. All of our members are then rated by customers throughout their membership on their reliability and timekeeping, tidiness, courtesy and more. So, you can be sure you're finding a trusted locksmith who's been recommended by your neighbours.
Copyright Checkatrade. Using this information in an article or blog? Please add a link back to https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/hiring-guides/locksmith/
Questions you should ask a locksmith
So, you've found a local locksmith - or a few - and now you're working out whether they're the right person for the job. Here are some key questions to ask before you commit.
Are you insured?
Locksmiths will be handling some of your most prized possessions, like your car or your home. Making sure they’re insured gives you peace of mind in case there are any accidents.
Are you able to work with transponder chip keys?
Most modern car keys have these chips in them, but locksmiths need specialist training to work with them. If you need a new car key cut, make sure the locksmith is able to work with the type of key you have.
Can you give me an idea of the price?
For many types of locksmithing jobs, the locksmith should be able to give you an estimate over the phone. This is especially good to know in an emergency; the last thing you want is for a locksmith to arrive only for you to find out it’s more expensive than you hoped! Be aware that unforeseen circumstances may affect the actual cost of the job, and it’s worth confirming the price with the locksmith once they’ve had the chance to properly examine the task.
Are you a member of the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA)?
While there isn’t any legal requirement for a locksmith to have a license, looking out for locksmiths approved by the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) can give you confidence that their work will be to a high standard.
What experience and training do you have?
Locksmiths in the UK don’t need to have any specific qualifications, and many learn their trade by becoming a trainee or apprentice first. However, knowing that your locksmith has received a certain level of formal training is always helpful in ensuring they can provide a high-quality service. Which brings us onto...
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What qualifications should a locksmith have?
While there are no requirements for locksmiths to have qualifications, and many learn their trade on the job, there are a number of qualifications and accreditations that locksmiths may hold.
Locksmiths who have completed a Master Locksmiths Association apprenticeship will hold a Level 2 Certificate in Locksmithing, which is currently the only nationally recognised locksmithing qualification. However, there are specialist training courses available for certain types of car keys, UPVC locks, access control systems and restricted key systems.
If you need specialist locksmithing work carried out, ask whether the locksmith has experience in carrying out similar work, and have a look at their reviews to see what their past customers have to say.
Hire a trusted locksmith with the help of Checkatrade
At Checkatrade, we make it quick and easy for you to find a trade that you can trust. Our members have to pass up to 14 checks and are regularly rated by customers so that you can be sure they're upholding high standards of workmanship and service.
Copyright Checkatrade. Using this information in an article or blog? Please add a link back to https://www.checkatrade.com/blog/hiring-guides/locksmith/
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