How much will my lock replacement cost?

Lock replacement cost quick guide

If you’re considering changing locks in your home, it’s important to understand the factors that affect the cost. Below, we break down the factors that influence lock replacement quotes and the prices you might expect.

We'll cover the following topics in this pricing guide:

1. Average cost to change a lock
2. Hiring a lock replacement professional costs
3. Cost to unlock a jammed door cost
4. How much does emergency lock replacement cost
5. Different types of lock replacement and prices
6. How to find a lock replacement professional near you
7. FAQ: Common questions about lock replacement costs

Average cost to change a lock

The cost to change the locks at your home can depend on a few things. But you can typically expect average lock replacement costs in the UK to hover around £100.

Locksmiths generally charge an hourly rate between £65 and £80, reflecting the professional nature of their work. Should you require an emergency lock replacement, be prepared for an additional call-out fee ranging from £50 to £150.

To get a good idea of the costs for your lock replacement, just post your job on MyBuilder today. It’s quick, easy, and gets you in touch with locksmiths near you who are ready to help.

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Hiring a lock replacement professional costs

The majority of locksmith jobs, such as replacing a lock, repairing one or opening a locked door won’t take more than an hour to complete.

During regular hours, you might be charged around £65 per hour for a lock replacement, while emergency services can cost up to £150 per hour.

Here is an overview of average hourly rates for locksmiths in the UK:

Callout time	Average locksmith hourly rate
8am - 6pm	£65 - £80
6am-8am / 6pm-8pm	£75 - £95 per hour
8pm-midnight	£85 to £100 per hour
Midnight - 6am	£120 to £150 per hour

Cost to unlock a jammed door cost

If you lose your keys to your door, it is recommended to have the locks in question replaced by a professional locksmith for your safety and the security of your building.

Locksmiths do more than replace locks, they’re also experts at helping you regain access to your home quickly and safely.

Like lock replacement, unlocking a door without a key typically takes no more than 30 minutes.

Here's what you can expect in terms of costs when you hire a locksmith to unlock your door:

• Unlock door (Opening Mortice Lock, Rim Lock or Euro Standard Lock): Starting from £80
• Remove a broken key & unlock door: Starting from £80
• Unlock door and replace a lost key: Starting from £90

Keep in mind: The time it takes to unlock a door depends on the required labour and the lock type. On average, unlocking a door or removing a snapped key will take about 30 mins.

If you lose your key and hire a locksmith to open the door and create a new key, it will take about an hour.

How much does emergency lock replacement cost

In many situations, you can't anticipate when a lock will need replacing. For an "out-of-hours" emergency service, a locksmith may charge up to £200. Here's a breakdown of the costs you can expect for emergency locksmith services:

• Out of hours callout fee: £50 - £150
• Out of hours hourly rate: £80 - £150
• Remove broken key from lock in case of an emergency (without replacing cylinder): £80 to £100
• Unlock a door in case of an emergency: £90 to £130

Different types of lock replacement and prices

When securing your home, the cost of locks can differ significantly depending on the door type and security needs, from everyday front doors to versatile patio setups.

Here’s a look at the different types of locks and their costs:

Lock Repair Job	Average Costs
Repair Front or Back Door Lock	£80 - £250
Repair Internal Door Lock (Bedroom/Bathroom)	£55 and £80
Repair uPVC Door Lock	£80 - £150
Repair uPVC Gearbox (can be cheaper to replace than repair)	£60 - £80
Repair uPVC Window Lock	£50 - £70
Repair Door Handle	£40 - £60
Repair Patio Door Lock	£60 - £80
Repair Garage Door Lock	£60 - £90

If you’re unsure how much your specific door will cost, you can talk to a professional on MyBuilder. Every tradesperson listed in our directory undergoes a thorough verification process, including identity confirmation and company checks, so you can hire with peace of mind.

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Find lock replacement near you on MyBuilder

Just post your job today, and find a find a locksmith nearby on MyBuilder. It’s quick, easy and free. You can also browse our directory of verified locksmiths near you, read their customer reviews and decide who to hire with peace of mind.

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FAQ: Common questions about locksmith services

How can I estimate the locksmith fees for a complex lock repair?

Estimating locksmith fees for complex lock repairs can be challenging due to the variables involved, such as the extent of the damage and the lock type. Generally, rates could start from £100, increasing with the complexity. For precise estimates, contact a locksmith on MyBuilder for a quote.

How long does it take for a locksmith to change a lock?

The time taken for a locksmith to change a lock is generally quick, mostly taking about 30 to 60 minutes for a standard lock. However, the duration can be affected by multiple factors, including the lock type, the locksmith's expertise, and any unforeseen issues that could come up during the process.

Can I change my locks myself?

Yes, changing your locks yourself is possible if you have the right DIY skills and tools. Changing a standard door lock typically involves removing and replacing the existing lock with a new one, which can be straightforward if the new lock is of the same type and size.