How much will a locksmith cost?

The price varies by job, but most emergency locksmith jobs in Brentwood can be quoted over the phone and confirmed upon arrival – no obligation or pressure. I value my reputation over dishonest earnings, ensuring transparency and trust for my customers.

How can I pay?

I accept cash and all major credit or debit cards through my secure Worldpay terminal. If you're a landlord or unavailable in person, payments can be made by phone or via a SumUp link, both designed for your convenience and security.

Will I be charged VAT? Yes, we are VAT-registered (No. 323366418) and charge the standard 20% VAT. Additional costs, such as after-hours fees or special lock types, will be clearly explained before work begins to avoid surprises.

Yes, we are VAT-registered and charge the standard VAT rate (20%). Our VAT Registration No. is 323366418.

Will I get a receipt/invoice?

You will receive a written invoice upon job completion, with full details of the work carried out and the parts used.

Will I have to pay a call-out charge?

When locked out, the customer will not pay until I have access to their property. I aim to gain access and secure your property in a single visit. I achieve this with a well-stocked van full of locksmith parts that are regularly required.

All new locks and parts come with a 12-month manufacturer's guarantee. Some APECS cylinders also include a 5-year warranty once registered online-details provided at fitting to ensure peace of mind.

All new locks and other parts come with a standard 12-month manufacturer's guarantee. Some APECS cylinders come with a 5-year warranty once you register the locks on their website—details are provided at the time of fitting.

Will I need a new lock if I've locked myself out?

When trying to gain entry to any property, I will initially use non-destructive methods. Non-destructive means entry without damage to the door or lock, if you have just walked out of your property and left the key inside. By using specialist tools and with years of practice, I’m able to open most doors without damage.

Providing you have the key, the lock will remain fully operational. Cylinder locks can be picked, bypassed and manipulated without damage in most cases. Higher-security deadlocks require different opening methods, which we'll explain after identifying the lock and before any work begins. However, if you have lost one of your keys, it's always advisable to change the lock and have a new set of keys for obvious security reasons.

How long will I have to wait for the locksmith to arrive?

For an emergency locksmith response, I aim to arrive within 1 hour and will always make elderly customers and those with young children my priority. An average response time of 30 minutes is usually achieved, subject to time of day, traffic and road conditions. I have responded to jobs within minutes when I am local. I will never make false promises on an arrival time and would rather recommend another locksmith if I were unable to attend within 1 hour.

Will the locksmith have the necessary parts in his van?

As a former warrant locksmith, I’ve built up a comprehensive stock of locks, cylinders and mechanisms to cover all eventualities. If a lock isn't available on my van, I can use temporary repair locks to secure your door while parts are ordered. Most parts are next-day delivery. Unlike many other locksmiths, I never charge extra for a return visit when parts are ordered. You will only be charged the original quoted price for parts and labour. A small deposit is sometimes required for special-order items.

Brentwood, Essex, is a historic town with medieval roots and notable events, such as the 12th-century pilgrim route, inspiring a sense of pride and curiosity about its past. 

Historical Highlights

• Pilgrim Route: The town developed as a stop for pilgrims travelling to Canterbury in the 12th century.
• The "Burnt Wood": The name is likely derived from brent (burnt) and wood, referring to a fire-cleared area in the forest.
• Martyrdom: In 1555, Protestant martyr William Hunter was burned at the stake on Ingrave Road.
• Medieval Chapel: The ruins of a 13th-century chapel dedicated to St. Thomas Becket still stand in the town centre.
• Royal Connection: In 1232, Hubert de Burgh, 1st Earl of Kent, was captured while seeking sanctuary at the Bishop of Norwich's palace in Brentwood. 

Interesting Landmarks & Trivia

• Kelvedon Hatch Secret Bunker: A subterranean Cold War bunker built to house government officials exists nearby.
• Sugar Hut: The famous nightclub frequented by reality TV stars is housed in a 15th-century coaching inn.
• Deer Park: Weald Country Park holds a 12th-century deer park.
• Famous Resident: Author Jeffrey Archer is a famous former resident.
• First in CCTV: In 1994, Brentwood was the first town in Britain to install colour CCTV. 
  
  

Notable Locations

• Brentwood School: Founded in 1557, this historic institution reflects the town's long-standing educational heritage and attracts visitors interested in local history and architecture.
• Warley Hospital: A former psychiatric hospital, this site once served as an elephant training school for the British East India Company before becoming an army base.
• Modern Celebrity: Frequently featured in the TV show The Only Way Is Essex.