Beware Rogue Locksmiths

Most locksmiths are honest, hard-working tradespeople. But every year, people who are locked out, stressed and in a hurry get caught by firms that advertise a cheap price online and then charge many times that once they arrive. Here’s how it usually works, and how to protect yourself.

How the “£49 locksmith” trick works

1. The advert. You search for a locksmith and see “Local locksmith from £49” at the top of the results, often with a local-sounding name and phone number.
2. The call centre. The number goes to a national call centre, not a local locksmith. Your job is passed to whoever is free, sometimes from miles away.
3. The price changes. When they arrive, the £49 turns out to be just the call-out or “labour from”. Parts, VAT, a “high-security” lock, night rates and mileage are added on top.
4. The drill comes out. Instead of trying to pick the lock, it’s drilled straight away, so you now “need” a new lock at whatever price they name.
5. The pressure. You’re locked out, it’s late and they’re standing on your doorstep with a card machine. Many people pay hundreds of pounds just to get it over with.

Warning signs

• They’ll only give a “from” price and won’t tell you the total before setting off
• The phone is answered with a generic “locksmith services” rather than a business name
• They can’t or won’t tell you the business’s name and address
• The person who arrives isn’t the person you spoke to, and doesn’t know what price you were given
• They reach for the drill without trying to open the lock first
• They pressure you to pay on the spot, or insist on cash

How to protect yourself

• Save a local locksmith’s number now, before you need it.
• Ask for the total price, including parts and VAT, before anyone sets off, and ask them to confirm it by text.
• Ask “are you the locksmith who’ll come out?” A genuine local locksmith will say yes.
• Check reviews for the actual business name on Checkatrade or Google, not just the advert.
• Ask why before you let anyone drill a lock. Most lockouts can be opened without damage.
• If the price changes on arrival, you can say no. You don’t have to agree to work at a price you weren’t quoted.

If it’s happened to you

Contact the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 0808 223 1133, which can pass your complaint to Trading Standards. If you paid by card, ask your bank whether you can make a chargeback claim.

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