Broken key removal service in London
July 29, 2025
A few simple tricks to remove that broken key from your lock.
When part of your key has broken and is stuck in the lock, don’t panic. There are many ways to remove the broken key without having to call a locksmith . Depending upon the type of lock and how far into the lock the key is wedged, how much time you have and what tools you have will determine which method to use. SMS Locksmiths are always available to help with any lock or key problems, so if you're looking for a shortcut just contact us here.
First thing to do to ease the extraction is to lubricate the lock. Spray a tiny amount of it into the key hole to help the key slide out more easily. Only ever spray a tiny amount so it doesn't penetrate the pins too deeply. Once the key is out it's best to wipe off all the excess oil and replace it with graphite powder.
Before You Try Anything Else…
DO NOT push the key into the lock further with the other half of the broken key. This will make it more difficult to remove! I know many people try to use the remaining half to try and open the lock. BUT DON’T! The further you push the broken half into the lock, the harder it will be to remove.
First things first - Align the cylinder. The cylinder will need to be in a locked or unlocked position to be able to extract the key fragment from the door. If you try to remove any key when the key is in between states it will stay stuck in the lock.
Remember, there are LOTS of different locks out there! Each is slightly different so you may have to try several methods to find out what works best.
A helpful tool to have is a pair of needle nose pliers. If you can grab the key with the needle nose pliers and get a good hold on it to pull it out the rest of the way. If there is not enough of the broken key to grab it with the pliers you will need to use one of the other methods to get it to that point.
If you don't have needle nose pliers, sometimes a pair of sharp pointed scissors can be used to grab the broken key that is just barely sticking out of the lock. You may be able to use tweezers but with caution! You don’t want to push the broken half into the keyway further. If you use one side of the tweezers, on one side of the key and use the edge of the keyway as a fulcrum, with the tweezer acting as a lever, edging the key out from the inside.
TIP: You can ONLY REMOVE A KEY WHEN THE KEY CYLINDER CORE IS NOT TURNED. This means that if the lock cylinder core can be moved around, the lock “pins” will hold the key in the lock and not allow extraction.
TIP: If you CAN spin the cylinder there is probably enough of the key left in the lock to allow you to unlock the lock by turning it to unlocked position! It won’t extract the key but might be worth trying to get you in fast. Use a small screwdriver to turn the key cylinder.
TIP: If the “pins” have dropped down in front of the broken edge of the key you will have to lift the pin(s) before the key can be extracted. This can be quite challenging even for an experienced Locksmith.
Methods for Removing a Broken Key Stuck in a Lock
- Professional Key Extractor Tools
- Makeshift Extractor Tools
- Drill (Absolute last resort)
Professional Locksmiths keep a set of Key Extractor Tools on hand. With the key “plug” or core in the upright position, insert the hook extractor on the top edge of the key (the jagged side) twist slightly and pull. This should hook on the jagged part of the key. The saw tooth extractor can be used the same way. The spiral tools can be used the same way but also can be used on the side of the keyway.
SOME locks have a key hole that is a bit wider than the actual key. This may be wide enough to allow you to insert a slim piece of metal, a paperclip or bobby pin on each side of the key. Once inserted, angle the pieces to put pressure on the key then pull it out. You may have to do this several times before you can grab the key. You do take the risk of pushing the key further back in the lock so it may be best to call a locksmith.
Drilling is also an option but should only be used as a last resort .It is possible to remove a broken key from a lock by drilling a small hole in it, but this can do damage to your lock and should be saved as a last resort. Calling a locksmith in London before trying this approach may be a safer and more cost-effective option.
If a key has broken in the lock it may be because the lock is jamming up. We advise Cleaning the Lock as there may be dirt or debris in the lock that is preventing it from working correctly. This can usually be remedied with a little (or a lot) of spray lubricant like WD-40 which cleans as well as lubricates. Simply apply the lubricant to the key and keyhole, and re-insert the key a few times to work it down into the lock. Keep a rag handy for drips and make sure to dry out the cylinder before using it again. Once dried apply some graphite powder as this will provide proper lubrication in the long term without causing issues.
Again, if you're locked out and worried that you may do more harm than good, feel free to contact us for a broken key removal service. Most times we can open the door without damaging the lock saving you time and money.
If you live in Wimbledon’s SW19, you know the vibe - gorgeous tree-lined streets, the buzz of the Wimbledon Tennis Championships, and the charm of the Village or Common just a short walk away. But between the stunning Victorian houses, sleek modern flats, and lively shops on the high street, there’s a catch: lockouts after a late night cheering at the All England Club or the odd break-in, in quieter spots can throw a wrench in your day. Even thing like moving homes or updating your home insurance can come with challenges. That’s when you need a local locksmith you can count on to sort things out fast. At SMS Locksmiths, we're proud to serve Wimbledon and the SW19 area (including Southfields, Merton Park, and Colliers Wood) with 24/7 emergency and planned services. Our DBS-checked, fully insured technicians arrive within 30 minutes, using non-destructive methods and transparent pricing - no hidden fees or call-out charges. Whether you're a homeowner securing your Edwardian semi-detached or a business owner in the Wimbledon Broadway retail hub, we're here to keep you safe. In this guide, we'll cover the top 5 locksmith services we provide to SW19 residents, tailored to local needs like upgrading heritage locks or handling post-match rush lockouts. Read on for practical tips, and remember: prevention is key to peace of mind. 1. Emergency Lock Opening: Back Inside in Minutes, No Damage to basic locks Nothing disrupts a Wimbledon evening stroll like realising you're locked out - keys forgotten after a coffee at Gail's or a tennis viewing party. Our lock opening service gets you back in fast using advanced pick-and-decode tools, bypassing tools and years of skill and experience, avoiding costly door damage. • Why Wimbledon residents love it: SW19's mix of old sash windows and modern uPVC doors means quick, non-destructive entry is essential. We handle everything from front doors to sheds and post boxes without a trace. • Real-life example: A local family in Southfields called us at 10 PM after misplacing keys during a dog walk on the Common. We arrived in 25 minutes, opened the lock in under 10, and advised on a spare key safe. • Pro tip: Always keep a copy of your keys with a family member or a person you trust, but call us immediately for lockouts - DIY attempts often lead to bigger bills. No matter the time, our 24/7 team ensures you're not stranded. Customer review: "SMS saved our night - professional and stress-free!" – Wimbledon Village resident (5 stars on Trustpilot). 2. Lock Changing: Fresh Security for New Starts in SW19 Moving into a charming Wimbledon flat or after losing keys? A lock change is your first line of defence against unknown access. We replace old locks with high-quality, British Standard (BS3621) compliant options that meet insurance requirements. • Tailored for Wimbledon: Many SW19 homes have outdated rim locks on period properties; we swap them for secure euro cylinders or deadbolts that fit seamlessly. • The process: On-site assessment (free quote), removal of old locks, installation (under 45 minutes), and a full test. Costs start from £110, with a 1-year warranty. • Local insight: With rising lettings in Merton Park, tenants often request changes post-move—we've helped dozens secure their new homes and flats without voiding deposits. Don't risk spare keys circulating; a quick change brings instant security. Book via our site for same-day service. 3. Lock Upgrades: Boost Protection Against Wimbledon Burglary Trends SW19 saw a spike in bike thefts and shed break-ins last year, per Merton Council reports. Our lock upgrades modernise your setup with anti-snap, anti-drill cylinders and multi-point systems, deterring thieves in high-traffic areas like Haydons Road. • SW19-specific benefits: Upgrade Victorian night latches to snap-resistant models or add 5 lever British standard deadlocks for Colliers Wood flats – we supply multiple brands for you to choose from on site. • Why upgrade now?: Standard locks fail 70% of tested break-ins; our BS-approved options slash that risk and keep premiums low. • Quick win: A Wimbledon Broadway shop owner upgraded their rear door after a near-miss; no incidents since, and they saved on insurance. We offer free security audits to spot weak points - perfect for families near the tennis grounds during tournament season. 4. New Lock Installations: Seamless Fits for Home or Business Renovating your Wimbledon townhouse or fitting out a new office near Plough Lane? Our lock installation service handles everything from single deadbolts to full master key systems for multi-unit properties. • Local expertise: We specialise in SW19's diverse builds -reinforced locks for ground-floor flats or heavy-duty ones for garage conversions in quiet Merton Park cul-de-sacs. • Step-by-step: Site visit for measurements, custom sourcing (e.g., thumb-turn cylinders for easy exit), professional fitting, and handover with keys and instructions. Most jobs completed in the first visit. • Business perk: For Wimbledon shops and cafes, we install mechanical digital access control for staff shifts, reducing downtime. Invest in lasting quality - our installations come with lifetime advice and no-fuss guarantees. 5. After-Burglary Services: Restore and Reinforce in SW19 A break-in is every homeowner's nightmare, and Wimbledon's green spaces can attract opportunists. Our after-burglary response includes immediate boarding-up, full lock replacements, and forensic-safe repairs to get you secure overnight. • Comprehensive support: We coordinate with police (providing reference numbers for claims), replace damaged frames, board up broken doors and windows to restore security providing you with peace of mind and giving you time to change doors. • Wimbledon focus: In areas like Southfields, where gardens back onto commons, we add perimeter advice like gravel paths for noise alerts. • From the frontlines: After a recent Merton burglary wave, we helped a family in SW19 board up, reinstall high-security locks, and claim via photos - back to normal in 24 hours. Act fast: Delaying repairs invites further risk. We're your second call after the police post-incident, with compassionate, efficient service. Why Choose SMS Locksmiths for Your Wimbledon SW19 Needs? As a family-run business with over a decade in South West London, we know SW19 inside out - from the rush of match days to the serenity of the Common. Our services aren't just fixes; they're tailored solutions with free quotes, 30-minute responses, and eco-friendly practices (we recycle old locks!). Plus, we're fully insured and DBS-vetted for your peace of mind. Ready to secure your Wimbledon home or business? Visit smslocksmith.co.uk to book online or request a free security check. For emergencies, we're just a click away - no postcode too far in SW19! Stay safe, Wimbledon - SMS Locksmiths has your back. #WimbledonLocksmith #SW19Security #EmergencyLocksmith #LockChangeWimbledon #MertonLocksmith ________________________________________ FAQs for SW19 Residents: Q: How quickly can you arrive in Wimbledon? A: Typically 20-30 minutes, 24/7 - no exceptions for rush hour on the A3! Q: Are your services insured for SW19 properties? A: Yes, all work is given a 1 year warranty and compliant with UK standards. Q: What's the cost for a basic lock change in Wimbledon? A: From £110, with no surprises - get a quote today. For more security tips, check our blog or follow us on social for Wimbledon updates!
Below is a more detailed breakdown of each service, which you can place under “Locksmith services we provide in Hounslow”: Lock Changes & Upgrades
If you’ve just moved into a new home or want to increase your security, we can replace your locks with better, more secure models. Whether it’s euro cylinders, mortice locks, deadbolts or master key systems, we can recommend and install insurance-grade products. Lock Repair & Adjustment Locks wear out over time - maybe the key sticks or you force it to turn. We diagnose whether parts can be repaired (springs, levers, cylinders) or whether it requires replacement. We can also realign misaligned mechanisms so things work smoothly again. Emergency Lockout / Non-Destructive Entry Locked out at an inconvenient hour? We specialize in non-destructive entry, meaning we’ll open your door without breaking it. We carry a full set of specialised tools, from lock picks to tensioners, to gain entry safely and professionally. Burglary & Forced Entry Repair If your property has been broken into, we can repair or replace damaged locks, door frames, or hinges. We can also strengthen weak points and offer recommendations to prevent future incidents (e.g. reinforced strike plates, heavy-duty cylinders). Door & Frame Carpentry / Refurbishment Sometimes the door frame, jamb or door edge is also damaged or poorly aligned. We can carry out carpentry, reinforce the frame, repair door edges, or adjust the door fitting so your locks work properly. UPVC / Multi-Point Door & Window Mechanisms UPVC doors and windows often have multipoint locking systems that require delicate handling. We service, repair, or replace gearboxes, locking rods, handles, and cylinders. We can also realign or replace stuck mechanisms so your windows and doors seal properly. Commercial & Business Services For offices, shops, and commercial premises, we offer: Master key systems Restricted key zones Keyholding & emergency access Panic bars, exit devices, and high-security door furniture Mechanical Digital keypad / access control installations Lock re-keying when staff changeover occurs Area Coverage & Availability We cover the TW3 area and nearby zones in Hounslow, including Feltham, Heston, Cranford, and West Drayton. Wherever you are in Hounslow, we strive to reach you fast. We operate 24/7, every day. Even during weekends and bank holidays, we remain on call.
