New locks for a new home
July 29, 2025
It's advised to change locks when moving in, just a few tips...
The type of door you have helps tell which type of lock you may need.You may need your locks changed for a number of reasons, whether you’ve moved house and are concerned about security or you are unsure who may have a spare key. You may just want to upgrade the security of locks on your current property, and you may also want to make sure your locks are insurance compliant, you will need to change the locks after a break in , if they are damaged. If you are a landlord and a tenant leaves and does not return the key you may want to get them replaced.
UPVC door locks
If your door is UPVC and just the cylinder needs replacing then it will be cheaper than changing the whole mechanism as this only needs to be done if there is a problem. An average Euro cylinder from a mobile locksmith will cost around £35 and may vary depending on make/model and security standard.
Wooden door locks
1. If a night-latch, also known as a ‘Yale Lock’ is just being changed for security reasons, then in most cases only the cylinder will need to be changed which will keep the price down. If the whole night-latch needs to be changed (if you are upgrading the security) then this will cost a little more. Wooden door cylinders start from £25 and again can vary in price depending on level of security/ make/ model.
2. Mortice locks - most wooden front doors in London will also have a mortice lock beneath or above the night-latch. Mortice locks are often what insurance companies require in order for the contents insurance to hold in case of a break-in. This is because these locks are the hardest to break into, mortice locks will start from £45
The price you pay for a locksmith can differ wildly from company to company, whether you require an emergency locksmith or are moving home and need the locks changed. We aim to give you an overview of what you can expect to be charged when hiring a locksmith. However until a locksmith is at your door it is hard to estimate an exact price.
Locksmiths Time
You may be charged more for a locksmith if you require their services at an inconvenient time such as late at night. Most locksmith prices will increase between the hours of 6pm to 8am. So don’t expect to be charged the same amount at 3am that you would do at 3pm.
Size of job
Most locksmith companies will charge by the hour, if you only require one lock to be changed then you can be pretty confident that the locksmith will complete the job within an hour. However, if you have just moved house and need every single lock on the doors and windows in your house replaced, then you may need to budget for 2/3 hours. You may also need to consider if your doors or windows have standard or unusual locks. Most locksmiths carry the standard locks in their vans, however if a part needs to be ordered in, the locksmith will have to return to your property, meaning they will have to charge another hour of labour.
If you require locks to be replaced as part of the service, then you will be charged for the new parts as well as the labour. This is often the case with snapped locks and cylinders, or if a lock has been damaged beyond repair. The type of lock you need will be dependent on the type of door you have and what your insurance policy requires. This may stop you from getting the least expensive, basic lock. The parts cost may also increase if you have a digital or smart lock, as these are harder to fix and more expensive to replace.
Locksmith Job Type / Estimated Price
Changing the locks on a new property £250
- Dependent on the amount of doors, windows and external locks at your property
Emergency Boarding Up
- £189- depending on the amount of damage
Replacing a Mortice lock
- Price per lock starts at around £45.Full cost will be the price of the lock plus the labour charge
Changing a Euro Cylinder
- Price per lock starts at around £35. Full cost will be the price of the lock plus the labour charge
Things that may affect locksmith prices
Size of locks, the bigger the lock, the more expensive it is going to be, so you will need to talk to the locksmith about what size your require.
Anti-Snap Cylinder
The make and model you choose will also affect the price, if you are happy to install the most basic unbranded lock, then it is going to cost you less than having the top of the range high security named lock. Again it is best to discuss with your locksmith what locks will be best for your property. If the lock is high security, i.e. an anti-snap ABS cylinder for a UPVC door then this will add to the cost, anti-snap locks do not come as standard so you will pay extra for the extra security.
Mortice locks
If your wooden door requires a mortice lock then these can start at around £55, you will have to add this to the labour cost that your locksmith charges. British Standard locks are slightly more expensive but most likely to be insurance compliant, 3 lever is cheaper than a 5 lever mortice lock but a 3 lever mortice lock is only really suitable for internal doors. We always advise out customers install BS 3621 approved locks on their door.
How to reduce locksmith costs
If the work is a non-emergency then take your time to shop around for a locksmith. Get multiple quotes and read reviews to find someone you can trust. You could consult a double glazing company, however the only option they will give you is to replace rather than fix.
You may be tempted to do the work yourself, however we do not advise this. You could invalidate your insurance policy if the work is not carried out by a professional. UPVC locks and mechanisms are all different and some may even be obsolete, so you would need to call a locksmith to completely replace the part.
How much does it cost to change locks on a new property?
When you move into a new property it is good practice to change all the locks. The average house will need the front door, back door, windows, garage and gate locks replaced. The locksmith prices will vary on the type of locks you need, for example Mortice locks are more expensive to buy than a euro lock. Also depending on the size of your house and the amount of doors/windows you have, a locksmith may need more than an hour to change all the locks. However an average cost you might be looking at is around £250. This is not an exact price and will differ from house to house and how much the locksmith you choose charges per hour.
So, in summary, how much a locksmith will cost for a new property will depend on the following factors.
- The type of locks that need replacing – some locks are more expensive than others
- How many doors you have in your property
- How many windows will require locks replacing
- The time it takes for replacement
- Remember, £250 is an average figure, the final cost differs from house to house
- Emergency locksmith prices
You may find yourself in need of an ‘emergency’ locksmith if you lock your keys in your house, have been burgled, or the key breaks in the lock. The locksmith prices we quote here are a rough estimate of what you might pay. The total cost of an emergency locksmith will be dependent on the nature of the emergency, the type of lock and why you need your locks replaced, as well as the area you live in and the time it will take to resolve the issue.
An emergency locksmith should be available 24 hours a day 7 days a week and be well skilled in a number of practices to resolve your issue. Whether they remove a broken key from a lock or let you back into your car if you’ve locked your keys inside. If you are calling an emergency locksmith outside of sociable hours then you should expect that the cost to change locks will increase with the increase in the labour charge, however if you are stranded outside of your house at 3am the extra cost will probably not be an issue for you.
The average cost of calling out an emergency locksmith in London would be around £79 for the labour -
plus any parts required plus VAT. Most reputable locksmiths will not have a call out charge and will just charge you for the labour and parts. This is just an estimate, and until the locksmith is actually stood at your door and can see the problem then the price can vary from this. This is in fact the way we keep down the cost for appointments, we accept appointments 2 hours in advance, so really, we only have emergency prices for emergency situations.
Emergency Boarding Up
If you have been broken into and doors and window are damaged beyond repair, you can get an emergency boarding up service. To secure your house after a break-in will incur extra cost, as not only will you have to board up your door and windows, you will have to replace them as well.
For emergency boarding up you are looking at a rough cost of £129
however this all depends on the amount you need boarding up, what time of day it is and how much your locksmith of choice will charge you. This sort of job normally runs over an hour, as locksmiths generally will not carry the material needed to board up, so you should budget for a couple of hours of labour charge.
Locksmith cost questions answered
1. What additional fees might be added to a quote?
If there are unforeseen requirements for your new locks, or obscure parts that need to be ordered then you might be charged extra for the locksmith to return and install them once they have arrived. Locksmiths generally carry the most common parts in their vans, but anything specialist will have to be ordered.
2. How long does it take to change a lock on a door?
The time it takes to change your lock is dependent on the type of door you have and the type of lock you require. However, if your door has a standard euro or mortice lock then generally it should not take more than an hour. This may change however if once the locksmith arrives at the job and feels there are more issues that need correcting. Our locksmiths will always leave your locks in the same or better condition. Sometimes locks are so old that when they do break other parts of the locking mechanisms can break as well. The locksmith should always advise before carrying out the job the price and process, this way you know he's doing a good job.
3. What type of locksmith do you need?
- Mission Critical/Emergency locksmith: Drop everything you are doing and come repair now. Something has stopped working and it is interfering with or impeding the continuing safe and orderly operation of uour life, whether this be a bike lock, locked out your car or left the keys in your car. This type of service will normally be the most expensive however most companies will have a locksmith by your side in around 30-45 minutes.
- Urgent Repair/ Lock change: Repairs need to be completed within the next 48 hours at your convenience. Something is making funny/odd noises or requires abnormal efforts to open/close or otherwise operate but is still serviceable at the present time. The locksmith will usually give a regular price for these types of jobs.
- Routine Repair/ lock change/ lock installation: For this we charge a great labour price. This is because we can often fit lots of appointments in as our logistics are great, this however will vary company to company.
We hope we have managed to cover most of the questions that can be asked when moving home or looking to book a locksmith in London. If not you can always contact us by clicking here.
Or just call a locksmith now on 020-3151-0531
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.
