How much will a locksmith cost?

The price depends on the job, but you can find a list of labour rates and parts on my prices page. If in doubt, most emergency locksmith jobs in Great Dunmow can be quoted over the phone and are confirmed once I arrive – with no obligation or pressure to proceed. As an independent locksmith, I prioritise my reputation over short-term gains because I believe that will lead to more positive reviews and a stronger reputation in the long term.

How can I pay?

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

Will I be charged VAT?

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.

Will I get a guarantee or a warranty?

All new locks and other parts come with a standard 12-month manufacturer's guarantee. Some of the APECS cylinders come with a 5-year warranty once you register the locks on their website—details 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 attend within 1 hour and will always prioritise older people and customers with young children. 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.