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myLock Change Cost
At a Glance
- The average cost of changing locks is £100 in the UK.
- This job will typically take 2 hours to complete.
- Simple calculator for you to quickly estimate lock replacement costs.
- Lock change costs in 2026 by type of lock and door.
- What impacts the prices you're quoted to change locks.
- How to find local locksmiths using MyJobQuote.
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£100
Table of Contents
- How Much Does it Cost to Change Locks?
- Emergency Locksmith Cost
- Lock Repair Costs
- Factors Affecting Locksmith Prices
- Additional Lock Changing Costs
- How Much Does a Locksmith Charge? (Labour Only)
- How to Reduce the Cost of Changing Locks
- How Long Does Changing a Lock Take?
- What's Involved in Getting Your Locks Changed?
- Choosing a Lock
- Do I Need To Change My Locks?
- Checklist: Finding a Locksmith Near You
- FAQs
Lock Change Cost Calculator
How Much Does it Cost to Change Locks?
The average cost of getting your locks changed is between £100 and £150 for replacing a standard deadlock or Yale lock cylinder, including materials and labour.
Typical locksmith prices can range from £50 to £150 per hour, depending on the type of job and the locksmith's experience. However, if you're locked out or have a broken lock, emergency locksmith costs may be higher, often with a minimum call-out charge of around £50 added to the overall fee.
What is your main reason for having your locks changed?
Repair a damaged or faulty lock
4 votes - 40%40% of votes
Lost or stolen keys
2 votes - 20%20% of votes
Security concerns or break-in
1 votes - 10%10% of votes
Moving into a new home
3 votes - 30%30% of votes
10 votes
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Alternatively, you may be looking to change all the locks in your property and to upgrade your home security, in which case the complexity of the job, the amount of work involved and even where you're located can all impact locksmith prices.
Lock Change Prices
How much will a lock cost to get changed?
Below are some estimated costs of hiring a qualified locksmith to change a variety of different door locks:
| Job Description (non-emergency) | Material Cost | Labour Cost | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 Yale lock barrels | £40 | £60 | £100 |
| Standard rim automatic deadlatch | £60 | £60 | £120 |
| UPVC multi-point Eurolock | £100 | £75 | £175 |
| Standard deadlock | £120 | £60 | £180 |
| 2 mortice locks | £130 | £75 | £205 |
| 5 Lever Mortice Deadlock | £130 | £60 | £190 |
| Deadlocks front and back | £140 | £100 | £240 |
| Replacing all locks in the property | £300 | £150 | £450 |
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Emergency Locksmith Cost
There may be an occasion where you find yourself on the wrong side of a locked door, have a broken key stuck in your lock, or there's been a burglary. If so, you’ll need emergency locksmith services to get you into your house safely and securely, which will cost slightly more than a regular locksmith.
What standards should I make sure my front door lock meets?
"That would depend on the lock on your front door. If it's a mortice lock, then you would be looking for a British Standard lock. If a rim cylinder, then you want a 3*. With a euro cylinder, you would need 3* high-security locks."
Emergency locksmith services specialise in these types of situations and your locksmith could be with you within the hour, depending on where you live. It's this quick, 24/7 response that you will be paying a higher price for, and typical emergency locksmith costs would include:
- Emergency Call-Out Fee — This can reach up to £100 just for an initial consultation. Always check before agreeing to the call-out so you don't receive any unexpected charges.
- Emergency Hourly Rate — Standard cost of about £90 per hour if you just need to get into your property. Whereas extra time and materials may be needed for a break-in or any damage to the door.
- Outside of Working Hours — If you call at unsociable hours, such as weekends or weekdays 7pm to 6am, then you will be charged more. Likewise additional fees may apply on bank holidays and over the Christmas period.
Your total cost for your emergency locksmith will depend on what needs doing, as well as when you call them out, and you can find some examples of typical emergency locksmith costs for different jobs below:
| Emergency Situation | Typical Total Cost |
|---|---|
| Locked out (no damage, non-destructive entry) | £100–£160 |
| Locked out (requires drilling or lock replacement) | £180–£300+ |
| Broken key in lock | £110–£200 |
| Lost keys (lock replacement required) | £150–£250+ |
| Emergency uPVC door lock repair (cylinder or mechanism) | £150–£300+ |
| After a break-in (lock replacement and repairs) | £180–£350+ |
| Out-of-hours call-out (evenings/weekends) | +£50–£100 |
Lock Repair Costs
It may not be necessary to replace your existing lock if the locksmith is able to repair it, and lock repairs can work out cheaper than a complete lock replacement.
Lock repair costs can vary depending on the type of lock and the extent of the damage. Here are some approximate prices for common lock repairs:
| Job Description | Total Cost |
|---|---|
| Repairing a mortice lock | £55 – £80 |
| Repairing a euro lock | £45 – £65 |
| Repairing a uPVC door lock | £75 – £100 |
| Removing a broken key | £90 – £120 |
| Replacing a lost key | £100 – £150 |
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Note: These approximate prices may vary depending on the locksmith and the specific job.
Factors Affecting Locksmith Prices
Several factors can affect locksmith prices and how much it costs to change a lock, including:
- Type of lock — Different types of locks, such as mortice locks, euro locks, and uPVC door locks, can have different prices.
- Material — The material costs include whichever lock choice is suited for your door. A budget lock cylinder will be cheaper (starting at £50), whereas high quality and secure lock cylinders are more expensive, starting at £150 but can prove a saving in the long run.
- Door material — The material your door is made from will affect the type of lock you need, which can also affect the cost. Timber doors typically use mortice or rim locks, which are single locking systems. Composite and uPVC doors often require euro cylinders and multi-point locking systems, which can cost more if additional parts or the whole locking mechanism needs replacing.
- Door condition — If your door is damaged, warped, or out of alignment, the locksmith may need to adjust it before the new lock can be fitted, which will mean more labour and higher costs for the installation.
- Size and complexity of job — How much it costs to change locks will vary depending on how many locks need doing and in the event of damage or a break in, the severity of the issue. More complex jobs, such as installing a new security system, can cost more than simple lock changes. A standard lock change can take from 30 minutes, up to 2 hours.
- Emergency call-out fee — If you're ever in a situation where you're locked out of your house, or your lock breaks and you're stuck, then you'll need to call an emergency locksmith to sort the job. You can see how much you should expect an emergency locksmith to cost in more detail below.
- Location — Locksmiths in urban areas may charge more than those in rural areas.
- Time of day — Emergency locksmiths may charge more for jobs done outside of normal working hours.
- Locksmith's experience — More experienced locksmiths may charge more for their services.
What is the most effective mortice lock?
"A 2-3 lever lock is usually used on internal and bathroom doors while a 5 is a more secure lock used for front and rear doors. A British standard 5 lever lock would be most effective and secure as it includes anti-Burglary features such as a curtain, anti-pick notches, reinforced bolt and additional plating to protect against drilling. Insurance companies usually ask homeowners to fit British standard lever locks to their front and rear door."
Additional Lock Changing Costs
We've seen that there are a number of factors that can affect locksmith prices, but there are also additional costs that might not be included in your quote that you should be aware of.
- Additional keys — If you want extra keys for your new lock these will probably cost extra, and additional keys for high-security systems could be more expensive than standard copies.
- High-security lock upgrades — You should always check your policy to make sure the locks you have fitted meet the minimum standards for your insurance, but upgrades like an anti snap euro cylinder, 3-star cylinders, and BS3621 mortice locks will usually cost extra.
- Replacement door furniture — If they are damaged or incompatible with the lock you are having fitted, door handles, escutcheons, and thumb-turns may need to be replaced at an additional cost.
- Keyed-alike systems — If you are having numerous locks changed and you want them to all work with the same key, there's usually an extra charge to have locks keyed alike.
How Much Does a Locksmith Charge? (Labour Only)
The average labour costs and timeframe of a standard locksmith job are usually not too pricey. Generally, a locksmith will charge up to £80 per hour for a Monday to Friday 9 – 5 job.
However, if you hire an emergency locksmith at late hours or on weekends, then they can charge you a call-out fee of a minimum of £50 just for coming out.
Emergency locksmith jobs typically incur higher costs, with increased hourly rates and a tiered pricing structure based on the time of the emergency call.
How to Reduce the Cost of Changing Locks
Looking for the cheapest way to change the locks on your house? If you do need to get your locks changed, here are a few ways you might be able to save some money:
- Ask about getting your lock rekeyed instead of replaced - if it's still in good condition this could save you money.
- For uPVC and composite doors, ask if you can just have the euro cylinder replaced, rather than the whole multi-point mechanism.
- Be sure to use MyJobQuote to compare locksmith prices from several providers so you get the best price.
- If you can, avoid out-of-hours or emergency call-outs and the higher rates you will probably have to pay.
- Getting multiple locks replaced at once can make the overall per lock cost cheaper than doing them individually.
- Choose a lock that meets your insurance and security requirements, without overspending on unnecessary upgrades.
How Long Does Changing a Lock Take?
Timescales can differ depending on the scale and difficulty of the job; however, in most cases, a standard lock changing job will take from between 30 minutes to 2 hours, and you can see the timescales for some common lock change tasks below:
| Job Description (non-emergency) | Time to Complete |
|---|---|
| 2 Yale lock barrels | 20–40 minutes |
| Standard rim automatic deadlatch | 30–60 minutes |
| UPVC multi-point Eurolock | 45–90 minutes |
| Standard deadlock | 30–60 minutes |
| 2 mortice locks | 1–2 hours |
| 5 Lever Mortice Deadlock | 30–60 minutes |
| Deadlocks front and back | 1–2 hours |
| Replacing all locks in the property | 2–4 hours |
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Emergency call-out fees can vary, but an initial consultation can take up to an hour, and more complicated jobs which require materials may be extended to the next day.
What is cylinder snapping and how do I prevent it?
"Cylinder snapping is where you use molegrips or similar and attach to the door cylinder and snap it in half. When this part is removed, it allows you to access the locking mech and turn it to unlock the door. To prevent this from happening you should fit an anti snap eurocylinder and make sure you fit the correct size leaving no more than 3mm showing on the outside of the door."
What's Involved in Getting Your Locks Changed?
Changing your locks is usually a simple and stress-free job when you use professional locksmith services. Incorrectly specified or fitted locks are useless when it comes to stopping criminals, so hiring a locksmith who is experienced and qualified is the best way to prevent any security issues.
With MyJobQuote, you can compare quotes from local locksmiths near you. It's fast, free, and there is no obligation to go ahead.
Here is a brief look at the process of having door locks changed when you hire a locksmith:
Before the Job Starts
- Checking the Existing Lock — Once the locksmith arrives, they will inspect your door and the current lock to confirm the correct type of replacement lock required, and spot any issues that might affect fitting it.
During the Job
- Removing the Old Lock — Any fittings are removed to allow the locksmith access, and the lock or cylinder is then removed. If there has been any damage to the mechanism or the door, the locksmith may need to carry out some minor repairs or adjustments to ensure the new lock fits properly.
- Fitting the New Lock — The new lock is then fitted and properly aligned so it works smoothly with the door frame. For uPVC doors, the new lock is checked to make sure it works properly with the door handle and multi-point locking system.
After the Job
- Testing and Final Checks — Once the new lock has been fitted, the locksmith will check the door opens and closes properly, and the lock itself locks and unlocks smoothly, so everything is secure. They will also provide you with any guarantees or maintenance advice.
Will it make any difference to my insurance if locks are fitted by myself or a locksmith?
"It won't make a difference as long as the lock itself is an insurance approved lock."
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Choosing a Lock
Deciding what type of lock you get may not even be up to you, as certain door makes will only fit with one lock. This is why it’s always essential to have a professional locksmith to change and fit new locks: they’ll know exactly what type of lock you need.
Below is a general outline of the most popular locks you can get and a few pros and cons.
5 Lever Mortice Deadlock Cost
A 5 lever mortice deadlock typically costs between £120 and £150 and is commonly fitted on wooden doors as it can be locked from both the inside and the outside.
Pros
- ✔ Easy to install
- ✔ Average pricing
- ✔ Secure
Cons
- ✖ May not be tested against burglar techniques
Multi-point Locking System Cost
This is an excellent choice for uPVC and composite doors because it adds an extra safety element by using multiple locking mechanisms. This usually costs around £200.
Pros
- ✔ Difficult for trespassers to disarm
- ✔ Great for public settings
Cons
- ✖ Confusing
- ✖ Higher expense
Rim Automatic Deadlatch Cost
A rim automatic deadlatch is often a cheaper option, and a usual replacement can be between £50 and £80. This type of lock is an extension on the door frame as opposed to a normal lock, usually placed at the top of a door.
Pros
- ✔ Extra security
- ✔ Cheap
Cons
- ✖ Can be dismantled
- ✖ Can’t be used solely as a lock
Euro Cylinder Lock Cost
This is a very popular lock choice, with a replacement costing between £70 and £100. A euro cylinder lock is often used in schools and is seen between a lock case.
Pros
- ✔ Cheaper option
- ✔ Good for large grounds
- ✔ Adaptable
Cons
- ✖ Standard quality
The lock on our front door has started sticking and the key is getting harder to turn. Is this something a locksmith can fix without replacing the whole lock, and what's a typical charge?
"If it's fine to lock when the door is open... then its just an alignment issue. Labour charge only £65. If its not performing when the door is wide open it will be the barrel cam of the gear box which needs servicing or replacing. £90-£150 unless its a Winkhaus or such which are more costly."
Do I Need To Change My Locks?
Changing locks is an extremely common job which people will have to do several times throughout their life as a homeowner.
Why would your locks need changing or replacing?
The most common reasons why new locks need to be fitted include:
- Moved Into A New Home — You’ve moved into a new home and you never know who had access to it before you moved in.
- Insurance Requirements — Your current locks are insufficient for insurance reasons.
- Lost Keys — You’ve lost your keys and can’t be sure they won’t be used.
- Worn Or Faulty Lock — If there is visible damage, your key is difficult to turn, the lock jams or sticks, or the lock or handle feel loose, the existing lock may be worn or faulty and need replacing.
- Damaged Lock — The lock is damaged, ranging from unstable and loose keyholes to noticeable chips and scratches.
- Signs Of Defects — You’re struggling to open your door or having trouble unlocking it, which can be a sign of a defect.
- After A Burglary — You’ve had a burglary experience or you’ve heard rumours of neighbourhood thieves and changing or updating your locks to a more secure version can help deter thieves from targeting your home.
- Flatmate Or Ex Moved Out — A flatmate or ex has moved out of your house and you may be concerned that they’ve had an extra set of keys made.
It is important to consider replacing all the locks in a property, especially when moving into a new home, to ensure comprehensive security.
If a lock breaks, is it smarter to repair it or just get a replacement instead?
"It depends what type of lock it is. If it’s a mechanism lock inside your Upvc door then it can be repaired. But generally if it’s a faulty broken lock that keeps playing up, replacement is simpler and secure."
Checklist: Finding a Locksmith Near You
Below is a checklist to consider when hiring a contractor for changing a lock and comparing locksmith prices in your area.
- Are they registered with a recognised trade body? Make sure your locksmith is an MLA Approved Company or a member of the Master Locksmiths Association scheme, and has relevant training for the job.
- Are they insured? Look for public liability insurance to cover you if anything goes wrong.
- Do they offer a guarantee? If they offer any guarantees, check what is covered and for how long.
- Have you been given an itemised quote? Have a written agreement with your locksmith before any work takes place, so you're aware of what services will be included in their quote and if there are any unexpected costs.
- Are they experienced? Ensure you hire a locksmith who has lots of experience with the type of lock you're having changed.
- Do they have examples of their work? Take a look at the photos on their MyJobQuote profile to see proof of their previous work.
- Do they have positive reviews? Check their MyJobQuote profile to read feedback from previous customers.
Is the work of a locksmith who fits a new lock generally guaranteed?
"Most locksmiths give a 12 month guarantee. I personally give 12 months guarantee on parts and labour. Always ask if they have any qualifications"
FAQs
How long does it take for an emergency locksmith to arrive?
This can differ depending on your area and personal circumstances, but this can typically be within an hour of calling if your locksmith lives nearby.
Should I change the locks if I lose my keys?
It is usually a good idea, and better to be safe than sorry. Plus, if you are burgled using your own house key, your home insurance may not pay out. That said, most home insurance policies have some kind of cover available to help with the costs of replacing your locks when you lose your keys.
What locks do I need to have in order to comply with my home insurance policy?
This differs from one policy to the next, so the best advice is to check your individual policy. But generally, most insurance companies require appropriate locks complying with BS3621. This is the British Standard for typical locks fitted to doors; these locks are tried and tested to a specific level of theft-resistant security and display the British Standard ‘kite mark’ symbol.
Can I change the locks if I’m renting?
If you’re renting, it’s worth double-checking that you’re authorised to have the locks changed at the property before you book a locksmith. Some tenancy agreements require you to get your landlord’s permission, provide a spare key, or change the locks back when you move out.
What’s the difference between rekeying and replacing a lock?
Rekeying keeps the lock but changes the key, and is suitable for a lock in good condition. Replacing means fitting a new lock or cylinder, and is better for worn or damaged locks. Euro cylinder door locks are usually quick to swap, while mortice locks can require a full replacement.
Can I have one key for all my locks?
Having one key for multiple door locks is called getting them keyed alike. It’s often possible if the locks are the same type and brand, but it may not work with mixed locks or older hardware. A locksmith can check what you’ve got and match your locks so they all work with the same key, which can affect the overall locksmith cost.
Can I get my locks changed for free?
In most cases, no. The majority of homeowners will need to pay to have their locks changed. While this might be covered by your home insurance, there might be an excess to pay, so check your policy. Housing associations and landlords may arrange to cover the cost of lock changes in some circumstances, and local authorities or charities may pay for security improvements for vulnerable residents, but these cases aren't the norm.
Can I change locks myself?
There’s nothing to stop you fitting your own locks, but it’s not recommended unless you know exactly what size and type you need to keep your home secure and not invalidate your home insurance. If you ignore the advice of the Police and consumer organisations and fit locks yourself, at least take advice from a locksmith and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Can a locksmith change a lock without the original key?
A locksmith can usually change door locks without the original key, including uPVC door locks and a euro cylinder lock. It’s often needed, especially when calling an emergency locksmith, after losing keys, breaking a key, or if you can’t get back into the property because of a locked door.
