Locksmiths near you: compare up to 5 free quotes
Locked out, or worried about your door locks? Tell us about the job and your postcode. We pass it to up to five local locksmiths, who can send you a quote. It is free, and you never have to accept one.
## What locksmiths doLocksmiths do far more than open doors, because they also fit new locks, repair worn ones and improve security after a break-in. Pick the one who can do the work you need.
- Lockouts, with entry that avoids damage where possible.
- Lock changes, for example after you move in or lose keys.
- Broken or jammed locks, including snapped keys.
- uPVC and composite doors, where the lock often needs special parts.
- Security upgrades, such as higher-rated locks.
- Extra keys, cut to match your lock.
Locked out? Read this first
Check every other way in and ask whether a family member has a spare key. Do not force the door, because the damage often costs more than the locksmith. Then read our emergency locksmith page.
Agree the total price before the locksmith comes out. Ask for the call-out fee, labour, parts and any out-of-hours charge. A fair firm will tell you plainly, while one that will not is a warning sign.
How much does a locksmith cost?
Price guides from Fantastic Services and MyJobQuote suggest about £60 to £150 for a lockout in normal hours. Out-of-hours lockouts run from about £80 to £200 including VAT, and more in London. A lock change often costs about £75 to £190, including the lock.
Call-out fees vary widely, since some locksmiths charge none and add the cost elsewhere. Compare the final price, not the call-out fee alone.
How to choose a locksmith
We do not vet or guarantee the locksmiths who respond, so check them yourself. The Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) approves locksmiths after checks, and it lists them online. Be wary of firms that give no local address or will not agree a price on the phone.
If you are fitting new locks, check your home insurance. Many insurers ask for a 5-lever mortice deadlock that meets British Standard BS 3621 on external wooden doors, so read your policy first.
Before you hire
Read how to find a tradesman you can trust and how to read tradesperson reviews. A locksmith should be easy to check before they touch your door.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an emergency locksmith cost?
Guides we checked suggest about £80 to £200 including VAT for an out-of-hours lockout. The price rises at night, at weekends and in London. Ask for the total before the locksmith sets out.
Can a locksmith open my door without damaging it?
Often, yes, because many locks can be opened by skilled picking or bypass methods. Some locks, such as certain uPVC or high-security locks, may need drilling. A good locksmith explains which applies before starting.
How do I find a reliable locksmith near me?
Compare more than one quote and check for MLA approval. You can send us your job and we will pass it to local locksmiths, but the checks are still yours to make.
Are the locksmith quotes free?
Yes. It costs nothing to send us your job, and you do not have to accept a quote.