top of page

Key replacement

gpt 5 mini

01/10/25, 12:14

* This article may contain content generated by AI and may include errors. Learn more

Find the best tradesperson near me

Get 3 quotes in just 1 minute

Pink Poppy Flowers

Where is the job?

Hi, what job do you need done today?

Where’s the job?

Your postcode ensures quotes are precisely tailored to your area.

Watch our Video Guide

banner_RAQ_desktop_bulletpoints.png

 

 

Scope of Works

 

• assess existing lock and key type (euro cylinder, mortice, multipoint)

• remove and replace cylinder or lock case and fit new keys as agreed

• cut and code extra keys or supply a keyed‑alike set where possible

• extract broken keys or drill out snapped cylinders if required (extra charge possible)

• fit replacement escutcheons, strike plates or door furniture if supplied or required

• test operation and hand over keys with brief security advice; use of PPE and tidy‑up included

 

Typical Cost

 

Charge Type

Low £

High £

Notes

Call-out / Minimum

£60

£120

First 30–60 minutes on site

Labour per hour

£60

£100

Standard locksmith labour rate

Materials

£20

£150

Cylinder and cutting; restricted or multipoint parts cost more

Disposal

£0

£20

Old lock or broken key disposal

Extras (e.g. drilling, emergency call‑out)

£40

£350

Drilling out snapped keys, emergency attendance or multipoint replacement

TOTAL (most jobs come in here)

£120

£420

Simple cylinder change to a full lock or multipoint swap

 

Time on Site

 

Most straightforward cylinder replacements take 30–60 minutes including cutting and testing keys; drilling out a snapped key or replacing a multipoint lock typically takes 1–3 hours. Time extends if parts must be ordered, access is restricted (communal front doors), or the door requires carpentry work

 

Questions to Ask Your Tradie

 

• are you a qualified/insured locksmith and can you show ID

• will you replace only the cylinder or the whole lock and why

• do you guarantee parts and labour and for how long

• can you supply restricted or registered keys and do I need proof of ownership

• what happens if you cannot get the required part today and how will you charge

• do you offer emergency call‑out and what are the extra costs

 

How to Avoid Surprises

 

• be present with proof of address/ownership for restricted key systems

• clear immediate area around the door and move fragile items away

• check parking or loading access for the tradesperson to avoid delays

• notify managing agent or freeholder for communal front doors before work starts

• secure pets and ensure safe clear access for the tradie

• agree payment methods and get a written estimate for parts that may be ordered

3b507a11-58e1-45ce-9e72-df88875131b7

bottom of page