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Key replacement

gpt 5 mini

01/10/25, 12:14

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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

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