Frequently Asked Questions
Andrew the Locksmith Harrow
General Locksmith Questions
Locksmith FAQs Harrow
1. What locksmith services do you provide?
I offer a full range of locksmith services for both residential and commercial properties. This includes lockouts, lock repairs, replacements, fresh installations, smart lock installation, key cutting , after burglary service and general door security work. Whether you’ve lost your keys or want to improve your property’s security, I’m here to help.
2. Are you available 24/7?
My regular working hours are 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM, but I also provide a 24/7 emergency service for urgent situations like lockouts or break-ins. If you’re locked out at any hour, just call me — I’ll always do my best to get to you quickly, day or night.
3. How fast can you arrive?
My average response time is around 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic and distance. Because I’m a local locksmith, I can usually get to you faster than big national companies.
4. Will unlocking my door damage the lock?
In most cases, I can open doors without any damage using professional, non-destructive methods. I only drill a lock if absolutely necessary, and I’ll always explain your options before doing anything.
5. Do you cover my area?
Yes, I’m based in Harrow and cover all surrounding areas — including Watford, Hillingdon, Barnet, Brent, Ealing, Three Rivers District, and Hertsmere District. If you’re in or near these areas, I can help you.
6. How much does a locksmith cost?
Prices depend on the type of job, time of day, and the kind of lock you have. My standard labour charge is £89, plus parts if needed. I always give a clear, honest quote before starting any work — no hidden fees, no surprise charges at the end. For out-of-hours emergencies there may be a small additional charge, but I’ll always tell you the total cost upfront.
7. Are you insured and qualified?
Yes. I’m fully insured and trained to work with all major lock types and security systems. As well as being a member of the Master Locksmith Association, I am also a fully Qualified Master Locksmith. You can have complete peace of mind that the job will be done safely and professionally.
8. Should I change my locks when I move into a new home?
Yes, I always recommend it. You never know who might still have a key from before you moved in. Changing your locks ensures that only you have access to your new property.
9. Can you replace or repair UPVC door locks?
Absolutely. I repair and replace UPVC and composite door locks, handles, and multi-point locking systems. If your door isn’t closing or locking properly, I can realign and fix it so it works like new.
10. What’s the difference between rekeying and replacing a lock?
Rekeying means changing the internal pins/levers inside the lock so that old keys no longer work — but keeping the same lock body. Replacing a lock means fitting a brand-new one. If the lock is worn, damaged, or doesn’t meet modern security standards, replacing it is the better call. I’ll always advise on which option is best and most cost-effective for your situation.
11. Can the police help if I’m locked out of my house?
No — the police won’t attend a standard lockout. It’s not classed as an emergency unless there’s a risk to life (for example, a young child or vulnerable person is alone inside). Your best move is to try a neighbor or family member with a spare key first. If that’s not an option, call me — I can usually be with you within 20 minutes.
Residential Locksmith Questions
Locksmith FAQs Harrow
12. Can you make all my house locks work with one key?
Yes, I can replace your existing locks so that one key operates all the doors in your home. It’s a simple and affordable way to make life easier — no more carrying around a bunch of keys.
13. Can you open a safe or cabinet if I’ve lost the key?
Yes, I can help with locked safes, cabinets, and lockboxes. I always use non-destructive entry methods whenever possible to protect your property and belongings.
14. Do you install smart locks or digital locks?
Yes, I install a range of smart and keyless entry systems, including keypad, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth-operated locks. I can also help you choose a system that’s compatible with your door and security needs and home insurance requirements.
15. What should I do if my key breaks in the lock?
Don’t try to force it or dig it out yourself — that can push the broken piece deeper or damage the cylinder. Give me a call and I’ll safely extract it using the right tools. I can then check whether the lock needs replacing.
16. How can I maintain my locks so they last longer?
Keep locks clean and free of dirt, and use a silicone-based lubricant once or twice a year. Avoid slamming doors, as that puts stress on the latch and lock alignment. And if a key starts to feel stiff, don’t ignore it — that’s usually an early sign something needs attention before it becomes a full breakdown.
17. What is lock snapping, and how do I prevent it?
Lock snapping is one of the most common break-in methods used in the UK, responsible for around 25% of burglaries. Burglars use a pair of grips or a wrench to apply force to the part of the euro cylinder that protrudes from the door. It snaps off in seconds, exposing the internal mechanism — which can then be turned with a screwdriver to open the door. No skill required. The whole thing can take under 30 seconds.
The solution is straightforward: upgrade to an anti-snap cylinder rated to TS007 3-star or SS312 Diamond standard. These are engineered to sacrifice the outer section under attack while keeping the locking mechanism fully protected. If you have a standard euro cylinder on a uPVC or composite door, this is the single most cost-effective security upgrade you can make — and most insurers now recommend or require it. I fit these regularly and can advise on the right model for your specific door.
18. Can you replace locks on windows, sheds, or gates?
Yes, I work on more than just doors. I can fit or replace locks on windows, sheds, garages, and garden gates to help keep your whole property secure.
19. What are the best locks for home security?
That depends on your door type. For uPVC and composite doors, I recommend British Standard 3-star anti-snap euro cylinders — they resist snapping, picking, and drilling. For wooden doors, a BS3621 5-lever mortice deadlock is the gold standard. Both meet insurance requirements and provide excellent protection against the most common break-in methods. I’ll always recommend what’s right for your specific door rather than upselling something you don’t need.
20. What locks do I need for my home insurance to be valid?
Most home insurers require your external doors to have locks that meet BS3621 — the British Standard for thief-resistant locks. For wooden doors, that typically means a 5-lever mortice deadlock with the BS3621 Kitemark stamped on the faceplate. For uPVC and composite doors, insurers increasingly require a TS007 3-star rated euro cylinder (anti-snap).
If your locks don’t meet your insurer’s requirements and you’re burgled, your claim could be rejected — even if the lock wasn’t the point of entry. Check your policy documents carefully. If you’re not sure whether your locks qualify, I’m happy to take a look and advise before it becomes a problem.
Commercial Locksmith Questions
Locksmith FAQs Harrow
21. Do you offer locksmith services for offices or shops?
Yes, I work with local businesses of all sizes — from small shops to offices and warehouses. I can help with lockouts, repairs, upgrades, master key systems, and general door security.
22. Can you install master key or restricted key systems?
Yes, I can design and install master key systems that allow you to control access levels within your building. It’s ideal for offices, landlords, and property managers who need secure but flexible access control — one key for management, restricted keys for staff.
23. Do you offer access control or digital lock systems?
Yes, I install digital and keypad lock systems that provide keyless entry for businesses. They’re convenient, secure, and ideal for shared access points or staff areas where you want to manage access without issuing physical keys.
24. Can you upgrade the locks at my business for better security?
Yes, I can upgrade your existing locks to high-security or anti-snap cylinders, fit new deadlocks, or install digital keypads for added convenience. I’ll always recommend the best solution for your business based on your budget and level of security you need — not just the most expensive
25. Can you help if I get locked out of my office or shop?
Absolutely. If you’ve been locked out of your business premises, I can come out quickly — even outside of regular hours. I use non-destructive entry methods whenever possible to get you back inside without damaging your locks or doors.
26. Can a landlord change the locks without telling the tenant?
No — in England and Wales, a landlord cannot legally change the locks without proper notice and following the correct legal process. Doing so without notice is considered illegal eviction, regardless of rent arrears or other disputes. If you’re a tenant who’s been locked out by a landlord, you have legal rights and should contact Citizens Advice or a housing solicitor.
If you’re a landlord and need to change locks between tenancies once a property is legally vacant, I’m happy to help — just make sure everything is above board before I start work.
27. Who is responsible for the locks in a rented property?
Generally, the landlord is responsible for ensuring the property is secure and that locks are in good working order at the start of a tenancy. If a lock breaks through normal wear and tear, it’s usually the landlord’s responsibility to fix it.
If you’re a tenant, document any issues in writing and report them to your landlord promptly. If you’re a landlord or letting agent managing properties across Harrow or the surrounding areas, I work with several local landlords and can respond quickly to maintenance calls — just get in touch.
Pricing & Payment Questions
Locksmith FAQs Harrow
28. Is there a call-out fee?
For standard daytime work, I don’t charge a separate call-out fee. For out-of-hours emergencies, there might be a small charge to cover travel and time, but I’ll always confirm the total cost with you before coming out.
29. Do you charge extra for late-night or weekend callouts?
Yes, emergency work outside regular hours is a bit more expensive due to availability and travel time. That said, I keep my rates fair and competitive — I don’t believe in hiking prices just because it’s late or because someone is in a difficult situation.
30. Can I get a quote before you come out?
Absolutely. I can usually give you a quote over the phone once I know your location, the type of door or lock, and what the issue is. In some cases, I might need to see the lock in person for an exact price, but I’ll always give you an estimate first.
31. Do you take card payments or cash only?
I accept cash, card, and contactless payments on-site. You’ll always get a receipt or invoice for your records.
32. Why do some locksmiths advertise very low prices like “from £39” or “from £49”?
It’s a bait-and-switch tactic — and it’s widespread. The low price gets you to call, but once a locksmith arrives, the reason changes: “it’s a more complex lock,” “the cylinder needs replacing,” “there’s extra labour involved.” Bills of £300–£500 for a straightforward lockout are not uncommon with these operators.
I don’t do that. My standard labour charge is £89, and I will tell you the price before I start. If there are additional parts needed, I’ll tell you what they cost before fitting them.
33. Can you provide invoices for business or insurance claims?
Yes, I provide full invoices and receipts for every job. If you’re making an insurance claim or need documentation for your records, I’ll make sure everything is clearly itemised.
34. Do you charge VAT?
No, I am a small one man business, as an independent locksmith, I currently don’t charge VAT — which helps keep my prices more affordable for customers.
35. Do you offer discounts for landlords or property managers?
Yes, I offer preferential rates for repeat work, landlords, and letting agents who use my services regularly. If you manage multiple properties in the Harrow area, get in touch and we can agree on a rate that works for both of us.
Technical & Maintenance Questions
Locksmith FAQs Harrow
36. How do I know if my lock needs replacing?
If your key is hard to turn, the door doesn’t close properly, the lock feels loose or worn, or you can see visible damage to the cylinder or faceplate, it’s probably time for a replacement. Locks naturally wear out — especially on front doors that are used dozens of times a day. I can inspect yours and give you an honest assessment of whether a repair or replacement is the right move.
37. What’s a Euro cylinder, mortice lock, or rim cylinder?
A euro cylinder is the most common lock type on uPVC and composite doors. A mortice lock is fitted inside the door itself, common on wooden doors, and usually operated by a key from both sides. A rim cylinder (what most people call a “Yale lock“) sits on the surface of the door and is often used as a nightlatch — you don’t need a key to pull the door shut, but you need one to unlock it from outside. I work with all of them daily and can advise which type you have and whether it’s up to the job.
Security & Safety Questions
Locksmith FAQs Harrow
38. What are the most secure locks available for UK homes?
For uPVC and composite doors, the best choice is a TS007 3-star anti-snap euro cylinder — tested and rated against snapping, drilling, picking, and bumping. For wooden doors, a BS3621 5-lever mortice deadlock is the standard I’d recommend. Both meet home insurance requirements and provide solid protection against the most common forced-entry methods used by burglars in the UK.
39. Are smart locks safe, and will fitting one affect my home insurance?
Good-quality smart locks from reputable brands are generally very secure when installed correctly. The main risks are weak passwords, failing to update firmware, or cheap locks without proper encryption — not the technology itself.
On insurance: this is the question people don’t think to ask until it’s too late. Most UK home insurance policies require your main entry doors to have a lock that meets BS3621 or equivalent. Some smart locks meet this standard, but many don’t — particularly those that retrofit over an existing cylinder without replacing it. Before I fit any smart lock, I check whether it’ll satisfy your insurer’s requirements. If it won’t, I’ll tell you and suggest an alternative. It’s not worth invalidating your policy for the sake of convenience.
40. How can I make my home more secure overall?
Strong locks are the foundation, but security works in layers. Beyond upgrading to anti-snap cylinders and BS3621 locks, you can add window locks, a security chain or door bar, a door viewer (peephole), a letterbox restrictor, and external sensor lighting. A visible alarm system is also a strong deterrent. If you’d like, I can do a quick security check of your property and point out the weak spots — most people are surprised by how straightforward the fixes are.
41. Do you install key safes or lock boxes?
Yes, I can install key safes and lock boxes, which are great for landlords, carers, Airbnb hosts, or anyone who needs to share access securely. I always fit them in discreet but strong locations for maximum safety.
42. What’s the best lock for a rental or Airbnb property?
For short-term rentals, I usually recommend keypad or smart locks, since they allow you to change codes easily between guests. For long-term rentals, I’d recommend anti-snap cylinders with restricted key access – that means keys can only be copied with your authorisation, so you maintain control even if a tenant loses one.
Emergency Locksmith Questions
Locksmith FAQs Harrow
43. I’m locked out — what should I do right now?
Stay calm and give me a call. I provide 24/7 emergency locksmith service, and I’ll get to you as quickly as possible. Please don’t try to force the door or window — that can cause damage and make things more expensive to fix.
44. How long will it take for you to arrive in an emergency?
In most cases, I can be there within 20 to 30 minutes, depending on your exact location and traffic. Since I’m based in Harrow and cover all nearby areas, I can usually respond faster than big national call centres.
45. Can you help if my lock is jammed or the key won’t turn?
Yes, I deal with jammed and stiff locks every day. I can usually free or repair the mechanism without damaging the door, and if the lock is beyond repair, I’ll replace it for you on the spot.
46. Can you open doors if I lost all the keys?
Yes, that’s one of the most common jobs I do. I can open your door safely and then fit a new lock or rekey the existing one so you’ll have a fresh set of keys right away.
47. What if my door lock breaks in the middle of the night?
No problem — that’s exactly when my 24-hour emergency service comes in handy. Whether it’s late at night or early morning, I’ll come out, secure your property, and make sure you can lock up safely again.
Helpful & Educational Questions
Locksmith FAQs Harrow
48. What’s the difference between a locksmith and a handyman?
A handyman handles general repairs, but a locksmith is specifically trained in locks, security hardware, and door mechanisms. I have the right tools and knowledge to open, repair, and fit locks properly — without causing damage or unintentionally voiding your home insurance by fitting the wrong type. For anything security-related, a specialist is always the right call.
49. Can I fix a lock myself, or should I call a locksmith?
Basic maintenance like lubricating a stiff lock — that’s fine to do yourself (silicone spray). Anything beyond that, I’d recommend calling a professional. A poorly repaired or incorrectly fitted lock can fail at exactly the wrong moment, or leave your property technically unsecured without you realising it. It’s rarely worth the risk.
50. How do I spot a locksmith scam or rogue trader?
The biggest red flag is a very low advertised price — things like “locksmith from £39” or “from £49.” These are almost always bait-and-switch. The locksmith arrives, invents a reason why it’s more complicated, and the bill becomes £200, £300, or more.
Other warning signs: they won’t give you a name or company number over the phone, they start work before giving you a price, they go straight for the drill without attempting non-destructive entry, they claim to be “police approved” (that’s not a real thing — the police don’t approve locksmiths), or the number you called connects to a call centre, not a local tradesperson.
Always choose someone with a local number, clear upfront pricing, and verifiable reviews. When they arrive, ask for ID. A genuine locksmith expects these questions.
51. How do I verify a locksmith is legitimate before letting them in?
Before you agree to any work, it’s reasonable to ask:
– Their full name and the name of the business
– Whether they carry public liability insurance
– Their professional qualifications or association memberships
– A price — verbally or in writing — before they start
You can also check their Google reviews and confirm that the number you called is linked to a real local business, not a listing that routes through a national call centre. A trustworthy locksmith won’t be bothered by these questions. If they are, that’s your answer.
52. What certifications should a locksmith have in the UK?
There’s no legal licensing requirement for locksmiths in the UK — which is exactly why credentials matter. Anyone can technically call themselves a locksmith with no training at all.
I’m a Qualified Master Locksmith, meaning I’ve sat and passed the recognised industry examinations covering lock mechanisms, non-destructive entry, security standards, and key systems. I’m also a member of the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) and hold full public liability insurance, plus a DBS check.
When choosing any locksmith, ask about their training, whether they’re insured, and how long they’ve been in the trade. Qualifications and insurance protect you — a locksmith without them is a genuine risk.
53. What are the signs of a failing lock mechanism?
If your key starts to stick, the handle feels loose, or the door needs extra force to close, your lock may be wearing out. These small issues usually get worse over time, so it’s best to call me early — I can repair or replace the lock before it becomes an emergency.