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Emergency Locksmith Services
Scope of Works
Rapid response & ID check – arrive within agreed ETA, confirm property ownership/tenancy before work.
Non‑destructive entry where possible – use lock‑picks, bypass tools or letterbox reach gear to open the door without damage.
Cylinder drilling & replacement if picking fails or lock is damaged; fit new BS3621 or TS007‑rated cylinder.
Temporary security – board up broken glass, fit sash jammers or hasps after burglary.
Key cutting & re‑pinning on site for additional keys or to match existing suite.
Functional testing & advice – check door alignment, issue spare keys, recommend upgrade options.
Typical Cost (inc. VAT)
Charge type | Low £ | High £ | Notes |
Call‑out / minimum (incl. first hr) | 80 | 150 | Daytime £80–£110; midnight/Bank Holiday £120–£150 |
Labour per additional hour | 60 | 90 | Charged in 30 min blocks after first hour |
Materials (cylinders, multipoint parts) | 20 | 140 | Euro cylinder £25–£70; 3‑star anti‑snap £90‑£140 |
Disposal | 0 | 15 | Old cylinders usually binned; hazardous glass costs extra |
Extras (board‑up, high‑security lock, mileage >25 mi) | 40 | 180 | 9 mm OSB board‑up £60–£90; remote call‑out surcharge |
TOTAL (most jobs come in here) | 180 | 550 | Gain entry + replace standard cylinder, out‑of‑hours |
Time on Site
Simple lock‑out (non‑destructive): 15 – 30 minutes.
Cylinder drill & swap: 30 – 60 minutes.
Burglary board‑up + multi‑point replacement: 1 – 2 hours.
Extra time for high‑security mortice locks, warped doors, or sourcing unusual euro profile sizes.
Questions to Ask Your Trade
Are you MLA‑licensed and DBS‑checked for emergency entry work?
What is your fixed call‑out fee and does it include the first hour?
Will you attempt non‑destructive entry first and explain the method?
Do you stock insurance‑approved BS3621 / TS007 cylinders on the van tonight?
Is there an extra charge for spare keys cut on site?
What warranty covers new locks and your workmanship?
How will you dispose of drilled cylinders and provide proof the old keys no longer work?
How to Avoid Surprises
Confirm address & parking: reserve a space close to the door for the van and task lighting.
Ask for total quote up‑front: call‑out, hourly rate after the first hour, parts pricing and VAT.
Request photo ID & MLA card when the locksmith arrives before granting access.
Check lock standards: insist on BS3621 or TS007‑3* cylinders to keep home‑insurance valid.
Keep receipts & key numbers: essential for warranty and future key cutting.
Secure spare keys: give one to a trusted neighbour to avoid repeat call‑outs.
Payment clarity: agree card or bank transfer—many locksmiths do not carry change for late‑night cash.
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