Emergency Locksmith Prices: What You'll Pay for a Call-Out

Being locked out of your home is stressful, and emergency locksmith costs can be eye-watering if you're not careful. Here's what you should expect to pay in 2026, and how to avoid being overcharged.

Average Emergency Locksmith Costs

Emergency locksmith call-outs typically cost £80-£150 for the first hour, plus the cost of locks if replacements are needed (£30-£150 per lock depending on type). Evening, night, weekend, or bank holiday call-outs often cost more: £100-£200+ for the first hour.

A typical 'locked out' situation where the locksmith picks or bypasses the lock costs £80-£120 total if completed within 30-60 minutes. If the lock must be drilled and replaced, expect £120-£250 total (including new lock).

Standard vs Emergency Rates

If it's not a genuine emergency (you have somewhere safe to stay, you're not vulnerable), booking a standard appointment during business hours costs far less: £60-£100 for non-emergency lock changes, £40-£80 per hour for other locksmith services during normal hours.

Can you wait until morning? Consider staying with a friend or getting a hotel room for £60-£100 rather than paying £150-£200 for a 2am call-out. You'll likely save money and get better work from a locksmith who isn't half-asleep.

Common Locksmith Jobs and Prices

Locked out (non-destructive entry): £80-£120. Lock drilled and replaced: £120-£250 (including new lock). Lock change/upgrade: £60-£150 (standard appointment). Multi-point lock replacement (uPVC door): £150-£300. Key cutting: £5-£15 per key (standard), £30-£80 (specialist/car keys). Burglary damage repair: £150-£400+ depending on extent.

What Affects the Price?

Time of call-out (night/weekend costs 30-50% more). Lock type (high-security, multi-point, and anti-snap locks cost more to replace). Whether the lock can be picked or must be drilled (destructive entry costs more). Your location (London and South East cost 20-40% more than other regions). Locksmith's skill and reputation (Master Locksmiths Association members typically charge more but provide guaranteed quality).

How to Avoid Locksmith Scams

Locksmith scams are unfortunately common. Watch for these red flags: Suspiciously low quoted prices (£15-£30) that multiply once they arrive. No business address or landline number (mobile-only is suspicious). Unmarked vans with no company branding. Demanding large cash-only payments. Insisting the lock must be drilled when it could be picked. Quoting different prices on arrival vs on the phone.

Protect yourself by: Getting the full price including VAT, call-out fee, labour, and parts BEFORE they start work. Asking for ID and company details. Checking they're a member of the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) or Locksmiths Guild. Getting a receipt with company details. Never agreeing to work without a clear, written quote.

When is an Emergency Call-Out Justified?

Pay for emergency locksmith services when: You're locked out with no safe alternative accommodation. A vulnerable person (child, elderly, disabled) is locked inside or out. Your property has been burgled and is unsecured. Locks are broken and the property can't be secured overnight. You have essential medication or medical equipment inside.

If none of these apply, waiting until morning for a standard appointment will save £50-£100 and often get you better service.

Lock Types and Replacement Costs

Cylinder/euro locks (most common on uPVC doors): £30-£80. Mortice locks (wooden doors): £40-£120. Anti-snap locks (recommended for security): £60-£150. Smart locks: £100-£300. Multi-point locking systems (full replacement): £150-£400.

If you're replacing locks after a burglary or lost keys, upgrade to anti-snap, British Standard locks (BS3621 for mortice locks, TS007 3-star for euro cylinders) for insurance compliance and better security.

Insurance and Locksmith Costs

Many home insurance policies cover emergency locksmith call-outs if you're locked out or after a burglary. Check your policy — some cover up to £500-£1,000 for emergency access and lock replacement. You may need to use the insurer's approved locksmith network.

If you're claiming on insurance, keep all receipts and get the locksmith to provide a detailed invoice with their company information.

Questions to Ask Before Hiring

Before agreeing to a locksmith visit, ask: What's the total cost including call-out, labour, VAT, and a standard lock if needed? How quickly can you arrive? (Beware of '10 minute' promises that turn into 2 hours). Are you a member of the Master Locksmiths Association? Can you provide a receipt and invoice? Will you try non-destructive entry before drilling?

Find Trusted Locksmiths in Your Area

TradeHub lists vetted, MLA-registered locksmiths across the West Midlands. Get clear pricing, genuine reviews, and avoid scam locksmiths by choosing verified professionals.