Is Using a Locksmith Good Value For Money?

February 16th, 2023

Written by Jeff Seymour

As a locksmith, I'm always going to say yes. However, it is a fact that using a professional locksmith for your home or business is beneficial in more ways than you would think and is good value for money. In this blog, I will highlight these benefits so you can better understand that using a locksmith benefits you and your family.

A qualified locksmith will ensure that any locks fitted are done so in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations. In addition, the new lock fitted will adhere to insurance standards and meet the relevant safety standards and building regulations within the United Kingdom.

Being Locked Out

Using a professional locksmith when you are locked out is essential. The locksmith will be able to pick the lock and gain entry with no damage to the door or the lock. I have seen some horrendous attempts by people who say, I've had a go, or my neighbour said he could get me inside. Most times, this involves damage to the door, the handles and the lock, which will be costly if all these need replacing.

For more info, please read our blog what to do when you're locked out of your home.

A qualified locksmith will ensure that any locks fitted are done so in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations. In addition, the new lock fitted will adhere to insurance standards and meet the relevant safety standards and building regulations within the United Kingdom.

Building Regulations and Insurance Approved Locks

If you live in a building that has fire doors fitted, the locks installed on those doors also need to be fire resistant, and they should be CE marked to BS EN 12209:2016. This also includes the latch and the handles. In addition, if an escape lock were fitted, the cylinder would need to be approved for fire resistance and carry the relevant CE mark.

Knowing What Lock Goes in Which Door

This may seem simple, but in fact, it can get complicated. For instance, I would not fit an Auto locking nightlatch with a locking handle into an HMO (house of multiple occupancies) property. Why? Because if someone locks the handle and goes out, leaving anyone else in the property, they are now locked inside, which would be a fire hazard. An Egress nightlatch should be used in this situation.

Home and Office Security

A professional locksmith can also give you security advice which is particularly handy if you have just moved into a new property. For example, the locksmith can check that all windows work as they should and have the correct locks fitted. In addition, they can check that doors work correctly and have the correct locks fitted to meet insurance approval. For example, I have pointed out the correct way to lock and unlock a uPVC door to some customers. You would be surprised at how many new homeowners need to learn how to lock these doors correctly.

You Recieve an Invoice

Having an invoice is essential. Why? It shows that you have used a professional locksmith and proves to your insurance company that you have had new locks fitted to the highest standard and that the locks used are of the correct type for the situation required. Always keep the invoice with your household paperwork. In most cases, it is also your guarantee.

Good Value for Money

Always ask for a quotation when using any service around the home. Most locksmiths will be able to give a cost. So even if you are still determining what locks and additional security you need, the locksmith can still give you an idea of the cost. Using a locksmith is good value for money because they are professional, knowledgeable and can give you the best advice when it comes to home security.

Thank you for taking the time to read my blog, and I hope you are more knowledgeable about using a locksmith.