Changing locks in London during Covid
July 30, 2025
Trying to change the locks yourself? Wondering if we can change them for you during Covid?
For residents across London who are wondering if they can change their locks or upgrade their security during covid and the periods of lockdown, we have the answers.
In short YES.
Most locksmiths will be operating unless they themselves are required to self isolate. Most retail locations will be shut however most locksmiths offer a mobile or emergency service as well. Below we will cover all the aspects of a lock change and if you can do it yourself or if calling a locksmith is advised.
As surprising as it may sound, most people don’t choose to change their locks out of choice. We advise changing locks for security purposes and these reasons can be, moving house, loss of keys or even if the keys stop working. These are all essential and we are happy to help.
If you have a UPVC door and just want new keys check our UPVC lock change blog post as this is something you may be able to do yourself. For most other lock changes it’s best to call a locksmith.
UPVC door lock change during Covid19
We will answer a few frequent questions we have been asked over the last few weeks.
1. Are locksmiths charging more during Covid?
No – Prices have remained the same for all locksmith services. If you’re looking for a rough quote feel free to check our price guide.
2. Will a locksmith attend during Covid?
Yes – Locksmiths will keep a safe distance of 2 meters during jobs. For most jobs it’s unnecessary to stand close to each other and most jobs are located on the main doors half inside and half outside with the locksmith working mainly outside.
3. Will the locksmith wear PPE on the job?
Yes – Most locksmiths wear gloves and most also will wear a mask. This is especially the case in large buildings with flats. The locksmiths will be required to use the lifts and spend time in the corridor with people going past in a closed space and it’s best to wear PPE.
4. What hours are Locksmiths available during Covid19?
If they are 24hour service locksmiths they will be available 24hours. Most locksmiths retail locations will be open but are restricting their hours so check before visiting. Mobile locksmiths are all operating so it may be best to just them to come out and check the other locks.
5. Can a locksmith change locks during covid?
Yes – Locksmiths can provide the same level of service both outside of Covid and within the Covid restrictions. Most lock jobs are security related and security is essential. Government guidelines have also stated that tradespeople are entitled to keep working and providing services. We are still providing all our services.
Changing locks should be a fast and efficient service, during which we will always keep a 2 meter distance. All of our locksmiths carry a wide variety of locks in their vehicles so that when they meet you on site you can choose the lock that suits you most as fast as possible. They also have all their PPE equipment The professional and friendly members of our team will help you with advise on the best solution for your specific purpose. Once you choose the right lock they will go ahead with fitting it for you. Whatever the situation, staff members at SMS Locksmiths are sure to know the job well enough to provide you with the best options. They can get you back into your home or office if you’re locked out and perform a quick lock changes. We can also repair and fit locks to doors and windows that demand unusual solutions.
What Precautions Are We Take During Our COVID 19 Operation?
Your protection is of utmost importance to, which is why we are ensuring all proper precautions are taken to ensure that all our visits will be 100% virus-free.
All our technicians are adequately tested to make sure no one is ill.
They carry gloves, masks, and hand sanitizers with them to keep themselves and our customers protected.
All the equipment and tools are properly cleaned before and after use, this includes all card machines that may be used.
Have you locked out yourself during the coronavirus (COVID-19) and are now wondering if someone can help you during the current ‘lockdown’?
If so, then SMS Locksmith Near Me (London) team is here like always to make sure you stay out of unwanted emergencies all the time.
Yes, no matter how terrifying the current situation is due to COVID-19 spread, we are still at your service and promise to provide you the best locksmith London services.
Why are Locksmiths operating?
Although the Government has not mandated it, a lot of locksmith companies have closed their retail shops.
But still, there are some which are operating and making sure customers get the emergency locksmith services when needed under the current ‘lockdown’ criteria.
We are one of them, our reliable locksmith London services are working under coronavirus and helping customers getting out of lockout, lock-in and lock change emergencies.
The Reason Why We Are Operating:
We want to help you, regardless of the deadly epidemic, we cannot leave our customers in the lockout emergencies.
We understand the fear that comes when keys get misplaced, or you lockout yourself. SMS locksmiths will make sure to reach your place on time to get you out of this trouble.
What Kind Of Locksmith Services Are We Offering During Coronavirus (COVID 19)?
- Residential & commercial door lock replacement
- Residential door lock installation
- Residential door unlocking
- Door lock repair in London
- Residential door lock keys replacement
- Window lock repair & replacement
- Broken key removal
Our Emergency COVID 19 Commercial Locksmith Services Include;
24h locksmith London services for lock-outs
Lock fitting
Lock repair & replacement
If you’re looking for a locksmith in the London area, be sure to choose SMS locksmiths . Our team will always strive to help in whichever way possible.
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.
