Emergency Locksmiths

Decent locks come in all shapes and sizes, from basic padlocks to the cutting edge retinal scanning electronic locks using the latest technology. Even a basic door lock can deter intruders and protect possessions to some degree. But the better the locks, the better the protection. In fact security locks like 5 lever mortice locks are now a requirement for many providers of home contents insurance. Locksmiths are skilled in the art of making (and breaking) locks, they can provide locks and keys for your home , business and vehicle. In addition many locksmiths are security specialists offering a wide range of services. Emergency locksmiths provide a range of services available 24 hours a day seven days a week including key cutting, repairs after a break-in to doors, windows and locks; plus an emergency door opening service for those who have locked themselves out of their homes or cars.

Emergency locksmiths can fit new locks in cases where they have become jammed due to simple wear and tear over time, or if they have been damaged in any way during a burglary or attempted break-in. But they don't just replace damaged locks, they can also upgrade your security with high quality locks that meet insurance requirements and provide extra security and peace of mind. If you have locked yourself out, many locksmiths provide an emergency service where they can gain access to your property, often without causing any damage to the door or lock itself.

Emergency Locksmith Prices

Prices for emergency locksmithing vary, with calls during weekends and in the evenings more expensive. The type, size and brand of lock must also be taken into account when pricing a job as will the time taken for travel to your home and parking charges if applicable. As a rough price guide for typical emergency locksmith charges, expect to pay around £70-£90 to remove a broken key without replacing the cylinder, £90-£140 to replace a standard Euro-Profile cylinder lock in a uPVC door, and for lost keys £80-£120 to open one standard mortice lock and one standard rim lock. In an emergency if arranging for a locksmith over the phone, clarify the price includes call-out, travel, parking and labour plus VAT before making any verbal agreement to avoid surprises!

How to choose an Emergency Locksmith

Choosing the right locksmith is crucially important as you don't want to give access to your home, vehicle, or business premises to just anyone. When hiring a locksmith always check their credentials, ensuring they are certified and qualified, at the same time find out if they are members of any union or locksmith associations (this can normally be found on their listings or local advertisements). It can also be worthwhile to check the locksmith company out online using review sites to find out if they have had any bad feedback. before choosing a company, ask your friends and relatives if they have used locksmiths in the past and find out what they thought about the service, personal recommendations from those you trust are always the best way of choosing a locksmith (or any tradesman).

If you cannot get a referral from someone you know, then get quotes from at least three local locksmiths and compare prices and reviews. The quickest way to do this is by "using the "post your job" button on this page and have recommended locksmiths get in touch with you to provide written quotes and advice. Normally when hiring someone to come into your home it would be advisable to take up references and speak to former clients, however, in an emergency there is no time to do a full background check, just choose a locksmith with a good local reputation that is a member of the Master Locksmith Association.