How much do locksmith fees cost?

Locksmith costs full guide

This guide goes through the average costs of common locksmith services, from a simple front door lock change, to a full security upgrade on your home. Find out how to make the most of your budget today.

In this cost guide we will talk about:

1. Average locksmith rates UK
2. Common locksmith services and costs
3. Emergency locksmith call-out fee
4. What increases the cost of a locksmith?
5. Find locksmiths near you on MyBuilder
6. FAQ: Common questions about locksmith fees

Average locksmith rates UK

Whether you've lost your keys, experienced a break-in or simply want to upgrade your security system, locksmiths can provide a range of services to meet your needs.

Take a look at how the average cost of a locksmith can vary: ​

• Lock Installation: Ensuring new locks are securely and correctly placed, with average locksmith rates typically ranging from £80 to £150 including parts.
• Lock Repair: Fixing faulty or damaged locks to maintain security, often costing £50-£100 depending on complexity.
• Key Cutting: Creating duplicate keys for ease of access and backup, usually £5-£20 per key.
• Rekeying Services: Altering a lock so it fits a new key, -ensuring old keys no longer work, at average hourly rate for locksmith of £45-£65.

Need to replace your car key instead? Visit our price guide for all car key replacement costs.

Common locksmith services and costs

Typical locksmith costs include a locksmith call out fee of around £85 for emergencies, plus labour at an average hourly rate for locksmith of £45 - £65.

Here's a breakdown of popular services and their costs:

Service	Average Cost
Lock installation	£80-£150
Lock repair	£50-£100
Key cutting	£5-£20 per key
Emergency call-out	£85+ call-out fee
Security upgrades	£150-£300

​ For a full breakdown of lock replacement prices, visit our lock replacement cost guide.

Locksmith average costs can vary depending on what area you live in. For example, if you live in a busy city like London the rates may be higher.

To get a more accurate idea, just post your job on MyBuilder today, then locksmiths near you can respond with their services and quotes!

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Emergency locksmith call-out fee

Emergency locksmith call-outs are a common need for lockouts, often needed in irregular hours.

• This fee is separate from labour charges, with an average hourly rate for locksmith work at £45-£65, potentially adding £50-£100 more for simple entries.
• Total locksmith costs for emergencies average £150-£250, varying by urgency, location, and door type.

If you want to find a locksmith that can help you in emergency situations, if they ever happen, you can find services near you on MyBuilder. Just post your job, and then locksmiths near you can respond.

You can then view their profiles, read customer reviews, and pick the person that best suits you.

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What increases the cost of a locksmith?

While standard locksmith fees are typically straightforward, additional charges can quickly increase your total expenditure.

Here are some of the common extra fees:

• Out-of-hours call-out fees: Typically add £50–£150 depending on the time of day.
• Emergency service charges: Expect to pay £60–£100 on top of standard rates for urgent help.
• Travel Fees: Usually £20–£50 if the locksmith travels a significant distance.
• Materials and parts: Lock replacements range from £70–£165, depending on the type.
• Labour for complex jobs: Additional time and difficulty can increase labour charges.

If you're considering smart locks, check out our smart lock cost guide for detailed pricing and installation advice.

Find locksmiths near you on MyBuilder

Don't let a lost key or broken lock ruin your day. Find verified locksmiths on MyBuilder.

It only takes a couple of clicks to post your job, including any information about the issue with your lock, and then a locksmith can get back in touch with their advice and services. MyBuilder is the easy way to request and compare quotes, from the comfort of your phone.

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FAQ: Common questions about locksmith fees

How can I save money on locksmith services without compromising quality?

To save on locksmith costs, opt for verified tradespeople via platforms like MyBuilder, schedule non-emergency work during business hours, and compare 2-3 quotes upfront. Also, bundling services like rekeying with repairs can cut average locksmith rates by 10-20%.

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, but you should always get a quote first.

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

The time taken for a locksmith to change a lock is generally swift, 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 may arise during the process.

Can I change my locks myself?

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. However, it's essential to ensure that you choose the correct lock for your door and that it meets any specific security requirements you have.