Locksmiths are handy when you’re locked out of your house, need to replace locks or want to secure your home. But not all locksmiths are honest. Unfortunately, locksmith scams are on the rise and target people in vulnerable situations like being locked out at night or needing an emergency. These scams result in overcharging, bad work or even security risks.
To help you avoid these scams we’ve outlined the red flags to watch for and how to find a good locksmith to trust.
Red Flags of Locksmith Scams
- Low Quotes
- What to Watch: If a locksmith quotes you a price significantly lower than others in your area, it’s a red flag. Some scammers will quote you £20-£40 and then massively inflate the price when they arrive, saying the job is more complex than they initially stated.
- How to Avoid: Always ask for a quote over the phone, including call-out fees, labour costs and any extra charges for parts or services. If the quote sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
No ID or Certification
- What to Watch: A genuine locksmith will always turn up in a marked van, have proper ID and be able to produce certification on request. Scammers will turn up in an unmarked van with no ID or proof of accreditation.
- How to Avoid: Before the locksmith starts work ask to see their ID, proof of insurance and any relevant certifications. In the UK look for locksmiths accredited by the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) or those with a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check.
Unmarked or Vague Website
- What to Watch: Many scammers operate under vague business names, something like “Local Locksmith Service” with no physical address, contact details or professional website. Scammers will sometimes create fake reviews to seem more reputable.
- How to Avoid: Research the locksmith online. Look for a professional website with a physical address, contact details and membership of a trade association like the MLA. Check for consistent reviews across multiple platforms like Google, Trustpilot or Checkatrade.
High Pressure
- What to Watch: Some rogue locksmiths will try to rush you into making a decision, like upgrading your lock or replacing it altogether, saying your current lock is outdated or unsafe. They may even start work without your permission and then charge you a high price.
- How to Avoid: Take your time to assess the situation. Ask for a written quote before any work starts and don’t feel pressured into unnecessary upgrades. A good locksmith will explain your options and let you make an informed decision.
Unnecessary Drilling or Lock Replacement
- What to Watch: Scammers will claim the lock is too complex to pick and that drilling or replacing the whole lock is the only option, which can mean high charges for new locks and labour. In most cases, a professional locksmith can open standard locks without damaging them.
- How to Avoid: If a locksmith suggests drilling the lock or replacing it without trying less invasive methods first, be cautious. A good locksmith has the skills to open most locks without causing damage.
No Clear Invoice
- What to Watch: Some scammers will avoid giving you a clear, itemised invoice or receipt, so you can’t dispute the charges later. They might ask for cash payments to avoid any trace of the transaction.
- How to Avoid: Always ask for a detailed invoice that breaks down the costs for labour, parts and any extra fees. Pay by card or bank transfer where possible, as this will give you a record of the transaction and more protection if you need to challenge the charges.
How to Choose a Trustworthy Locksmith
Now you know the warning signs, here’s how to make sure you hire a professional locksmith:
- Look for Local Locksmiths with a Physical Address
- When searching for a locksmith, choose a company with a location near you. You can check their address online and avoid locksmiths with vague contact details. This way you can hold them accountable if something goes wrong.
Check for Accreditations and Certifications
- In the UK look for locksmiths accredited by the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA). The MLA checks locksmiths to ensure they meet high standards of workmanship and professionalism. Also check if they have a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check so they are safe to work in your home.
Ask for Recommendations
- Word of mouth is the best way to find a good locksmith. Ask friends, family or neighbours if they have used a local locksmith. You can also check review platforms like Trustpilot or Google Reviews for honest feedback from previous customers.
Get a Written Quote Beforehand
- Before you commit to any locksmith service ask for a written quote that includes all charges, including any call out fees. This way there are no surprises when the bill comes. A good locksmith will be transparent with their pricing.
Be Wary of National Call Centres
- Some locksmith services are run by national call centres which may subcontract to local locksmiths whose quality you can’t verify. Whenever possible work directly with a local locksmith company to avoid any middlemen or extra charges.
24/7 Service with Fair Pricing
- Reputable locksmiths offer 24/7 emergency services but are transparent about their pricing even for out-of-hours work. Always ask for an estimate of emergency service costs beforehand including call-out and labour fees so you don’t get overcharged.
Check Reviews Across Multiple Platforms
- Don’t rely on just one source for reviews. Check reviews across Google, Yelp, Trustpilot or Checkatrade. Be wary of any locksmith with all 5-star reviews that all sound the same or were posted in a short period – these could be fake reviews.
Locksmith scams can cost you a lot and leave your home insecure, but by knowing the warning signs and taking the right precautions you can avoid those scammers. Always research the locksmith you are going to hire, ask for quotes upfront and never feel forced to make a decision quickly. By choosing a good locksmith you will save money and your home or business will be secure.
If you’re still not sure, we highly recommend Tony’s locksmith. He’s a credited locksmith with years of experience and is raved about across Cardiff.
