How much will a locksmith cost?

The price depends on the job in hand but a list of labour rates and parts can be found on my prices page. If in doubt, most emergency locksmith jobs in Chelmsford can be quoted over the phone and are confirmed once I arrive – with no obligation or pressure to proceed. As an independent locksmith, I valuee my reputation above earning money dishonestly as I believe that will return greater reviews and reputation in the long term.

How can i pay?

I accept cash or all major credit or debit cards through my encrypted Worldpay chip and pin terminal. You will not be charged for any extra transaction charges. If you are a landlord or not present to make payment in person card payment can be taken over the phone or via SumUp link.

Will i be charged VAT?

Yes we are VAT registered and charge the standard rate of VAT (20%) our VAT Registration No 323366418.

Will i get a receipt/invoice?

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

Will i have to pay a call out charge?

When locked out the customer will never pay a penny until I gain entry to their property. Furthermore, I aim to gain access and secure your property in one visit. I achieve this with a well stocked van full of locksmith parts that are regularly required.

Will i get a guarantee or warranty?

All new locks and other parts come with a standard 12 months manufacturers guarantee, Some of the APECS cylinders come with 5 years warranty once you register the locks on their website, Details provided at 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 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 methods to open which will be fully explained after lock identification and prior to any work commencing. However if you have lost one of your keys its 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 attend within 1 hour and will always make the elderly and customers 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 to the job. I will never make false promises on an arrival time and would rather recommend another locksmith if I was unable to attend within 1 hour.

Will the locksmith have the parts needed on his van?

As a former warrant locksmith, I’ve built up a comprehensive stock of locks, cylinders and mechanisms to cover all eventualities. In the rare case of a lock not stocked on my van, I have many 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 some special order items.