"The Ultimate Locksmith Price Guide for 2023: Get the Best Prices with Our Comprehensive Checklist!"

Discover the cost of hiring a locksmith in the UK with our comprehensive list of prices for locksmith services, including common jobs such as lock replacements and the price of different types of locks. Our locksmith price checklist even offers a list of questions you can ask a locksmith to avoid getting overcharged.

As the largest association of locksmiths in the UK, the MLA is uniquely positioned to provide comprehensive guidance on pricing. Our pricing guide includes everything you need to know, as well as quotes from vetted locksmiths.

Expert Quotes for Your Locksmith Service Needs

The 2023 Locksmith Price Guide

Our pricing guide covers the following topics:

1. Lock Replacement and Installation Costs

2. Lockout and Door Opening Costs

3. Lock Repair Costs

4. Door Lock Prices – Lock prices without labour (including BS3621)

5. Hourly Locksmith Labour Prices

6. Emergency Locksmith Costs – Includes 24/7 availability

7. Tips for Reducing Costs – Avoid overcharging

8. Locksmith Price Checklist – A list of questions to ask

9. Why Locksmiths Can Charge Any Price

10. Factors That Influence Locksmith Prices

11. What to Do if You're Overcharged by a Locksmith

The most important thing to know about locksmith prices is:

• There is No Government Licensing for Locksmiths

The price of hiring a locksmith in the UK can differ depending on several factors. Locksmith prices can vary depending on the time of day, the parts required to complete the job, and where you are located in the country.

The Prices Listed Here are Sourced from MLA-Approved Locksmiths – The prices on this page are provided by our network of approved locksmiths across the UK.

Discover the tell-tale signs of unscrupulous locksmiths and learn how to spot them with our guide on identifying rogue locksmiths.

Looking to replace your locks but wondering how much it will cost? Here's an estimate of what a locksmith may charge for a variety of jobs. Bear in mind that the price depends on numerous factors such as the lock type, brand, security standard, and potential call-out charges.

Lock Replacement Prices

The price to replace a basic euro lock cylinder starts at £85, but it can go upwards of £115 for a mortice lock replacement.

Check out our estimates below for all lock types, including front and back door locks, uPVC door locks, patio doors, windows, and garage locks. Here are the estimated costs and time to complete each job.

Locksmith Job Type

Price Estimate(inc VAT)

Time to Complete Job(approx time)

Changing standard euro cylinder lock on uPVC door - request a quote

From £85

From 20 minutes

Replacing an anti-snap euro cylinder on uPVC door - request a quote

From £110

From 20 minutes

Changing a mortice lock* (deadlock or sashlock) - request a quote

From £115

From 30 minutes

Replacing a night latch (Yale lock) on a wooden door - request a quote

From £90

From 30 minutes

Changing a rim cylinder lock - request a quote

From £70

From 20 minutes

Replacing a patio door lock - request a quote

From £90

From 30 minutes

Replacing a garage door lock - request a quote

For as little as £80, a uPVC door handle can be fitted by a skilled locksmith in just 30 minutes. If you need to change a mortice lock, however, there may be some additional work required to fit the lock into the door due to its varying sizes. This type of job can start from £90 and also takes approximately 30 minutes to complete.

The price for changing locks can differ depending on several key factors. These include the brand of the lock being replaced, the standard of the lock, and whether it is a British Standard or Non-BS standard. It is also worth considering the time of day, location, time to complete the job, distance the locksmith has to travel, and the size of the company they work for. Please note that these factors can vary from one locksmith to another, hence it is wise to seek and compare at least three quotes from local locksmiths.

If you're unsure of the type of lock you have installed on your door, we recommend reading our guide on the different types of door locks available on our website. It will provide you with insights on how to identify your house locks and their respective pros and cons.

If you find yourself locked out of your house, don't panic. Skilled locksmiths can unlock any type of door for a starting price of £70, depending on the type of lock and door that needs to be opened. In some instances, two locks may need to be opened, thereby resulting in higher costs. Additionally, locksmiths can remove broken or snapped keys, and they usually charge around £70 for this service.

Please be aware that the estimated prices mentioned above include VAT. The approximate time taken to complete the job is 30 minutes although some jobs may take longer. If you require any of the services mentioned above, kindly visit our website and fill out the quotation form to request a quote from a locksmith in your area.

Replace Lost Keys to House

Click here to receive a quote

Prices start at £80 and response time is usually within 30 minutes.

The Cost of Unlocking Different Types of Locks

Unlocking a lock requires different techniques depending on the type of lock. A basic euro cylinder or nightlatch is usually quick and easy to open, whereas other locks can be trickier and more time-consuming.

Mortice Locks

Some locksmiths may charge more to open mortice locks, as they can be more difficult to open than rim or euro locks.

UPVC/Composite Doors

If your UPVC door is equipped with a basic cylinder lock, it's usually easy to unlock. However, if you have a high-security anti-snap lock, it requires special tools and knowledge, making it more expensive.

Wooden Doors

Wooden doors are generally simple to unlock, unless there are two security locks on the door. In this case, the job becomes more expensive, and damaging the locks can further complicate matters.

Replacing Lost Keys

The cost to replace keys depends on the number of locks that need to be replaced in your home. Most locksmiths recommend replacing the lock if you've lost your key for security reasons. If your locks are keyed alike, you will need to replace every lock.

Key Cutting Prices

For prices on key cutting services, please refer to our key cutting price list, where we also provide an estimate of how long it takes to cut keys.

Price to Repair Locks

The cost to repair a faulty or damaged door or window lock starts at £45 for internal door locks and goes up to £65 or more for front or back door locks. The price to fix a lock depends on factors such as the time needed, parts required, and the type of lock.

*Please note that the prices listed are estimates and may vary depending on the specifics of each repair job.

Looking for affordable door lock and handle repair services? Look no further! We offer a variety of repairs starting at just £40. We can repair your uPVC gearbox or window lock from only £65, and even patio door locks and garage door locks from only £40. Door handle repairs start at just £55, so you can trust us to handle all your lock and handle issues.

The biggest factor in the cost of these repairs is the labour involved and whether any lock parts need to be replaced. If you require repairs outside of normal business hours, this could also increase cost. We recommend getting at least three quotes from vetted locksmiths in your area.

If you're looking for replacement door locks, we offer a variety of options to fit your needs. A basic cylinder lock for uPVC doors starts at just £20. A BS3621 Mortice deadlock costs from £30 and up, while a BS3621 Approved Night latch starts at £80.

Please note that all of our prices listed below do not include labour costs:

• Lock Type
• Price Estimate Cost Without Labour (subject to VAT)
• Budget Euro Cylinder Lock (commonly used on uPVC doors)
• from £20
• Anti Snap Euro Cylinder Lock (commonly used on uPVC doors)
• from £50
• 3 Lever Mortice Deadlock
• from £18
• 5 Lever Mortice Deadlock
• from £20
• 5 Lever Mortice Deadlock BS3621
• from £30
• 3 Lever Mortice Sash Lock
• from £20
• Get your free quote today by visiting our website and filling out the form!

• Lock Prices

• 5 Lever Mortice Sash Lock

• Starting at £24, the 5 Lever Mortice Sash Lock in BS3621 starts at £32.

• Night Latch (Yale Lock)

This type of lock is commonly used on wooden doors and starts at £25. A British Standard approved Night Latch in BS3621 is more expensive at £80.

uPVC Door Lock Replacement

A full Multipoint lock strip replacement will cost between £60 and £200.

Rim Cylinder

Starting at £10, the British Standard Rim Cylinder starts at £20.

Patio Door Lock, Garage Door Lock, Window Lock

These locks start at £10, £15, and £20, respectively.

*The above prices are for the cost of the lock only and do not include labour, fitting, or call out charge costs.

Euro Cylinder Lock Prices

A basic euro cylinder lock replacement for a uPVC door lock is affordable, starting at £20. However, a high security anti-snap cylinder is more expensive, varying from £50 and up depending on the brand and standard of cylinder. It's important to note that fitting a basic euro cylinder may result in locks being at risk to lock snapping, as basic cylinders are not tested against snapping. For expert advice on the best anti-snap lock, read our guide here.

Night Latch (Yale Lock) Prices

A basic night latch (Yale Lock) starts at £25, but the price varies depending on the brand and type of night latch. An auto deadlocking night latch will be more expensive but also offers more security. A British Standard approved night latch that conforms to BS3621 is likely to cost approximately £80. For advice on night latches, read our Night Latch guide here.

Mortice Lock Prices

Mortice locks are typically more expensive than basic euro cylinder locks. The price of mortice locks varies depending on the type available, such as Cylinder Mortice Lock or Lever Mortice Lock.

Types of Mortice Locks: Sash and Deadlock

When it comes to mortice locks, there are two main types: the sash lock and the deadlock.

Number of Levers

Mortice locks may come with 2, 3, or 5 levers, with a more considerable number of levers indicating a higher-priced lock typically.

Mortice Lock Standards

While non-British Standard locks are often cheaper, British Standard approved locks are pricier. Examples of locks include the 5 Lever Non-BS3621 or the 5 Lever BS-3621. A lock with more levers is usually considered more secure.

Factors Affecting Lock Prices

The price of a door lock isn't equal across the board and depends on several factors, including:

• 1. Brand
• Brands like Yale, DOM, ERA, and Mul-T-Lock are pricier than lesser-known ones.
• 2. Size
• Locks come in different sizes, which will impact their price.
• 3. Lock Standards

British Standard approved locks cost more than regular non-BS approved locks. Check this guide on BS3621 locks and how to know if your fitted locks are BS3621 approved. Additionally, the cost of high-security cylinders approved to SS312 Diamond & Ts007 3* will be higher than basic euro lock cylinders.

Locksmith Hourly Rates

On average, expect to pay around £65 per hour for a locksmith's labour rate. Some locksmiths may charge less for the subsequent hours. For example, the first hour on-site may be £65, and the second hour may be £30.

Fortunately, several locksmith tasks, fitting and changing locks, can often be completed within an hour. However, repair jobs may take longer. You can find a fully vetted and inspected locksmith in your area here.

Emergency Locksmith Hourly Rates (Out of Hours)

Outside of normal working hours, an emergency locksmith's hourly price will increase. You can expect to pay around £65 per hour for emergency labour rates.

Hourly Locksmith Rates in London

In London, the hourly rate for a locksmith can be about £75 per hour as labour charges. Locksmiths in London may charge more than those in other parts of the UK due to additional charges such as congestion and parking fees.

Emergency Locksmith Rates in London (Out Of Hours)

In London, an emergency locksmith hourly rate ranges from £95 to £120 per hour after midnight and on weekends and holidays, so do keep this in mind.

What is the Cost of a 24 Hour Locksmith?

From our research, if you need to hire a 24-hour locksmith outside of regular working hours, the cost might start at £85 per hour after 8pm. However, be prepared to pay more if the work is required after midnight. When you need to hire a 24-hour locksmith, the final price may vary depending on the day, time, and whether it falls on a weekend or holiday.

If you need to find a reliable 24-hour locksmith near you, follow the link.

What Does an Emergency Locksmith Cost?

For normal working hours, hiring an emergency locksmith can be remarkably affordable, starting from £65 per hour. In general, the cost of an emergency locksmith should be the same as a typical locksmith because most locksmiths run a mobile service.

The Cost Breakdown: The amount you'll pay for an emergency locksmith covers their labour and the cost of any parts.

The Call Out Fee: According to our findings, most emergency locksmiths do not charge a call-out fee. To find a verified emergency locksmith nearby, click the link.

The Price of an Emergency Locksmith

The cost of hiring an emergency locksmith varies depending on several factors:

• 1. Type of Job

Some jobs may take an emergency locksmith longer to complete. For example, opening a locked door will be considerably cheaper than fitting an anti-snap lock cylinder or replacing the entire multipoint locking mechanism on a front door.

2. Time and Date of Reservation

An emergency locksmith at 11 pm on a Monday may be less expensive than one at the same time on a Saturday night. Hiring a locksmith on a bank holiday will likely cost more. During Christmas Eve/Day or New Year's, the price is likely to rise compared to normal days.

3. Call Out Charge/Fee

Call-out charges can include both a fee to attend the site of the job and an initial period on-site. Other call-out charges may only be the cost of attending the job, particularly if longer travel is necessary. We strongly advise checking beforehand what the call-out fee includes.

What is the Cost of a Locksmith Call Out Charge Fee?

When you hire a locksmith or emergency locksmith, many will waive the call-out fee, and any charges may include the first hour of labour.

We recommend contacting your nearest MLA-approved locksmith for a quote. Be sure to ask if there is a call-out fee, and if so, what it includes.

How Can I Reduce the Cost of a Locksmith?

If you are seeking to bring down the cost of hiring a locksmith, the best way is to request quotes from at least three different providers to compare prices.

Accurately Informing Your Locksmith

To receive a realistic estimate from your locksmith, provide them with details about the lock and the related problem. This will help them evaluate the work required and provide you with cost information.

Review Our Price Checklist

Our checklist of questions to ask a locksmith can prevent you from being overcharged. Access our checklist at https://www.locksmiths.co.uk/faq/#pricechecklist.

However, do not mistake a quick job for a cheap one. Keep in mind that a locksmith's price reflects their extensive training, tool expense, and knowledge, rather than just the time taken to complete the job.

Expert Tip: Ensure to ask whether the quoted price includes VAT.

Signs of a Deceitful Locksmith

Locksmith Price Checklist

Discover how to keep locksmith prices low and avoid being overcharged by consulting our guide on hiring a locksmith at https://www.locksmiths.co.uk/faq/choosing-a-locksmith/.

Since no price structure exists for locksmiths in the UK, there have been accounts of locksmiths overcharging.

Eight Questions to Ask Your Locksmith – Minimize Cost

To reduce costs associated with hiring a locksmith, ask the following questions:

• Pricing and Cost of Job

• Question to Ask
• Reasoning

1. Is the quoted price a fixed price for the job?

Verify that all costs, including product and labor, are incorporated.

2. Is the quote an estimate or a firm quote?

Some quotes are an estimate, and once on site, the job could take longer.

3. If it is an estimate, what elements can change?

For instance, higher security products will cost more.

4. Is VAT included?

The locksmith may not be registered for VAT, and not all locksmiths will charge VAT.

Cost of Labor

Question to Ask

Reasoning

5. Is labor part of the price?

Labor expenses may be additional, ask for clarification.

6. Is labor billed per hour?

If labor is charged, inquire about the labor rate.

Call Out Charge/Fee

Question to Ask

Reasoning

7. Is there a call-out charge?

24-hour and mobile locksmiths may impose a call-out fee.

8. What does the call-out charge fee encompass?

Some call-out fees may involve a site attendance cost.

Cheap Locksmiths and Bait and Switch Schemes

To protect yourself from locksmith scams, familiarise yourself with the following list of questions:

• Question to Ask
• Reasoning

9. Are they completing the work or subcontracting it?

Ask who the locksmith is using for subcontracting in case of pricing problems.

10. What does the advertised price specifically entail?

The advertised price could solely refer to a call-out fee.

It is crucial to recognise that locksmiths are free to charge whatever they want, given that there is no governing body regulating their fees.

The Perils of the Unregulated Locksmithing Industry

Essentially, there are no specific requirements in place for companies or individuals to fulfill to work as locksmiths, allowing anyone to operate as a locksmith regardless of their training or competency. There is no price structure or limit to regulate locksmithing, resulting in overcharging by some.

1. Anyone can call themselves a locksmith

There are no set requirements for vetting or competency, meaning anyone can trade as a locksmith.

2. No Price Limit set in place

Locksmiths can charge any price they wish, resulting in overcharging.

For quality assurance, always hire locksmiths verified by the Master Locksmiths Association.

MLA Locksmiths are Vetted

All locksmiths approved by the Master Locksmiths Association undergo vetting, competency checks, and inspections. Should you encounter pricing issues, we can investigate the matter on your behalf.

The next topic covers locksmith prices and the related factors in detail.

The Factors Contributing to Locksmith Price Variation

If you are perplexed by the difference in prices charged by locksmiths, the following factors account for the divergence:

• 1. Location

• Location can significantly impact the prices charged.

Inner city areas may prove more expensive because of parking and congestion charges. Whereas rural areas may require expense for travel incurred by locksmiths.

2. Time of Day and Year

Avoid emergency locksmiths called out during out of hours periods as they may charge more. Holidays, such as Christmas and New Year, can also result in higher prices. Obtain at least three price quotes from locksmiths in proximity who can deliver the best value for your money.

3. Type of Job

Lower prices apply to jobs involving unlocking a door or removing a broken key compared to replacing and changing locks.

4. Labor and Hours

You must also factor in the locksmith's labor hours needed to complete the job.

Determine whether the price quoted is per hour or a fixed job price.

5. Brand and Type of Lock/Cylinder Fitted

The cost of locks can change depending on the brand and standard of lock you choose to fit. Budget euro cylinders are less costly than higher quality branded anti-snap locks that achieve a higher grade of security. The locks' security standard and whether additional work is needed to fit the new lock to your door can also affect the price. Euro cylinders are significantly cheaper than multipoint locks.

What to Do If Overcharged by a Locksmith

See our locksmith complaint page for advice on handling locksmith overcharging situations:

https://www.locksmiths.co.uk/faq/complaining-about-a-locksmith/.

In Summary

Be aware that there is no regulation in the industry, and prices can vary widely. Obtain at least three quotes from locksmiths near you. Factors affecting locksmith prices include location, time, type of job, labor and hours, brand and type of lock/cylinder fitted. Remember to clarify whether the quote is an estimate or a firm quote and what the price covers, including call-out fees and VAT.