How to find a "Locksmith near me" - the reliable way
July 30, 2025
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Finding a reliable locksmith near me - harder than it seems.
In the UK and across most of the world in fact, locksmiths are an unregulated industry. This can make it hard to find a reliable locksmith who will perform quality work, arrive on time and provide quality products as well. It's hard to find a good plumber or builder and they are regulated by government organisations. Locksmiths can go to the MLA in the UK or the UKLA to get certification, but as the industry isn't required to do so by law, it results in many cowboys. This can range from just leaving a mess after they work (which could simply mean the locksmith has pulled a long shift) , to quoting a certain amount over the phone, charging double or even triple on site and not completing the job as advised before commencing the work.
How To Ensure You Are Getting The Real Deal?
Firstly, you should always seek third party approval. This can be checking the reviews of the company and making sure they are at the very least positive. If they have a lot of positive reviews it stands to reason they have a lot of returning customers who approve of their work in the field. If you need a locksmith and wish to find one on the internet try to make a cross research, reading customers reviews on different platforms and asking existing clients of the company about their satisfaction with the service. That is especially so when more than just gaining entry to your home or changing a lock is required. Make sure that the locksmith is local to you and not just claiming to be so by verifying this with the locksmith office over your initial phone call.
Registration with the Locksmith Association Approved Company such as MLA, UKLA or City and Guilds tells you that the locksmith has most probably been vetted, can be inspected on a regular basis and that the firm employs qualified locksmiths (by qualified we mean someone who has sat and passed the appropriate exams and has certification to prove it). They should definitely be DBS/ CRB checked and have public liability insurance. Most property management companies are required to use companies who's been DBS/CRB checked and have insurance.
Search Local
Its best to use a local 24 hour locksmith service. Do everything to avoid nation-wide services that don’t work with their own engineers. Often these firms are nothing more than call centres who subcontract their work to local locksmiths. So essentially all you are doing is paying their margin on top of what you have to pay the locksmith. Save yourself some money and go local. You are also relying on the call centre-based firm to carry out the checks we have mentioned above; they may not do this or may simply not care that much about the quality of the work.
Use Different Sources
Phone a friend. Ask around for recommendations; this is a great way to find a reputable locksmith who can be trusted. More often than not one of your neighbours will have been locked out at some point or needed their lock change. If they are satisfied with the locksmiths work and have had no issues with their lock, chances are so will you be.
Also remember that locksmiths do far more than just let you into your home when you have lost your keys on a drunken night out or dropped them down a drain getting out of your car! Locksmiths specialize in different residential and commercial locking problems through to vehicles lock issues. They can cut keys for you and they can get into things like safes too. Locksmiths are highly skilled professionals.
One of the most annoying things to happen (always at the most inconvenient time) is getting locked out of your own house. If you’ve misplaced your keys and forgotten where they are, quite often the only way to get back in is to call a locksmith. This will usually result in having to get new locks if you fail to find your old set of keys, they can supply locks as well.
The trouble of finding a decent Locksmith is something a lot of people seem to agree on. It’s quite easy to find a locksmith online, but how do you know which one’s are reliable and which one’s offer fair pricing. With that said, we have compiled our top 105 tips to help you find a reliable and fair locksmith.
1. START LOOKING FOR ONE AS SOON AS YOU COMPLETE ON A NEW PROPERTY
If you’re about to complete on a new property, we’d advise that you start looking for a locksmith right away. Search for a local locksmith on the internet and look at reviews to find out what experiences other people have had. Schedule with the locksmith to arrive on the date of completion or the date the keys are handed over. If other reviews mention good service this can come in handy if you ever need them looked at.
2. DO SOME BACKGROUND RESEARCH
Once you find a locksmith nearby, start digging up the internet and asking a few locals about the reliability of the service. You wouldn’t want sub-par services for something like this because it is a matter of your home's security.
3. AVOID CALL CENTRE LOCKSMITH SERVICES
It’s best that you personally look up a reliable local locksmith than approach a call centre for available services. These call centres usually contact any random local service and send them to assist you. You might want to personally ensure that the locksmith working on your locks and doors can be trusted. Check that the locksmith offers a warranty as well and that they have a large online presence, always good to know they're easy to find. This can come in handy in the future if you ever need them again for emergencies.
4. ASK YOUR NEIGHBOURS OR COLLEAGUES
It is entirely possible that someone among your neighbours must be aware of a trustworthy locksmith. You can even ask them for the contact number of their preferred locksmith. In the instance anything occurs, your neighbours might also be able to help whilst you're locked out. If you ever leave your phone in the room they may be your only port of call.
5. LOCKSMITHS DO MORE THAN JUST LOCKS AND KEYS
You might want to find out what kind of task the locksmith you’re considering specialises in, carpentry, UPVC or welding. There are a number of things Locksmiths can do other than just locks and keys and a lot of them specialise in certain tasks so in case you’re looking for a specific task that needs to be done, you can approach a Locksmith that specialises in it.
6. ASK FOR IDENTIFICATION
When the locksmith arrives at the door, make sure you ask them to show a visible proof of their identity. Most of them have identity cards from the place they work for. Ask for Public liability insurance for which they will have a number you can search on their insurers website. Having a DBS/CRB check in their names will also ensure that they are trustworthy individuals and can work on school sites and old age homes, places where there are vulnerable people.
7. GET A WRITTEN ESTIMATE OF THE FEES THEY’LL CHARGE
It is entirely possible that your locksmith gets away with overcharging if you do not take a written estimate. When it comes to a locksmith’s job, they should, in most cases be able to provide an estimate on how much it should cost you once they’re done reviewing the situation. In some cases a picture is enough, many locksmiths will offer this service and then you have a quote in writing. Some locksmiths will say that it is an "estimate" and not a quote. In most cases the locksmith is just trying to be upfront as there may be other things wrong with the lock. If a locksmith wants to rip you off they will most likely say the cheapest they can can to send someone out. Once someone is on site it's harder to tell them no. We can provide a quote to you via Whatsapp
8. AVOID PAYING BY CASH
All licensed businesses nowadays take credit cards or debit cards. Make sure you don’t pay cash so that in case you need to trace your transaction, it is possible to do it. If you do decide to pay in cash, make sure you get a receipt for the work with contact details should you have an issue with the lock.
9. BUILD A RELATIONSHIP OF TRUST WITH YOUR LOCKSMITH
If you think you’ve found a locksmith who can be trusted in the long run, make sure you build a relationship of trust with them, so that they can come to your aid whenever you need their services.
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.
