The Importance of Changing Locks When You Move House
Why Replacing Your Locks Should Be a Top Priority After Relocating
Moving House? Don’t Forget to Change Your Locks
Moving into a new home is an exciting time, marked by new beginnings and fresh opportunities. Amidst the flurry of unpacking boxes, decorating rooms, and meeting new neighbours, one crucial task often slips down the to-do list: changing the locks on your new property. While it might seem like a minor detail, replacing the locks is a vital step in ensuring your family’s safety and peace of mind.
Security Starts at the Door
When you receive the keys to your new house, you can’t be certain how many copies exist or who might still have access. Previous owners, tenants, estate agents, cleaners, or even tradespeople could have keys that open your doors. By changing the locks, you take control of your home’s security from the very start, ensuring that only those you trust have access. I have lost count of the times that workers doing long jobs like extensions or renovations, lose keys. If you hand your key over to a tradesperson for an extended period, you simply don’t know if they or one of their employees makes a copy. Always give them a key to a minor use door if possible and change the lock once they have finished the work.
Peace of Mind for Your New Chapter
There’s nothing quite like the reassurance of knowing you’re the only keyholder. Changing the locks eliminates any risk of unwanted visitors and allows you to settle into your new home with confidence. The last thing you want during your first night in a new place is uncertainty over who might be able to let themselves in unannounced. I have actually known this to happen. After six months in their new house, a couple came home to find a neighbour looking around. The neighbour explained she had a key from the previous owner and was concerned because she had been watching the new owners and they had not returned at their normal time.
Insurance and Legal Considerations
Many home insurance policies require evidence of forced entry to cover burglary claims. If a break-in occurs and the thief uses an old key, you may find yourself ineligible for compensation. By replacing the locks, you not only protect your belongings but also ensure your insurance remains valid and effective. There are also an incredible number of older properties that simply do not have insurance rated locks. It is always best to seek professional advice. Many people confuse the locking mechanism on a upvc door for a 5 lever lock as stated in insurance policies.
When Should You Change Locks?
Ideally, locks should be changed as soon as you move in – before you start bringing in valuables or spending the night. If you’re renting, check with your landlord about replacing the locks, and ensure you comply with the tenancy agreement. For homeowners, it’s a straightforward process that can often be done in a single afternoon. As a tenant, it is worth offering to pay for new locks if the landlord won’t do it. Legally, they don’t have to, but morally your landlord should change the locks for you. This is an allowable expense, so no-one loses out. If you are a home buyer and intend to have work done quite quickly, either leave the lock changing until after the work is done or ask your local locksmith if they have some 2nd hand locks that can go in temporarily before the main change further down the line.
Professional Help or DIY?
While some may feel comfortable changing locks themselves, hiring a professional locksmith guarantees the job is done correctly and to a high standard. A reputable locksmith can also advise on upgrading to more secure or modern locking systems, offering an added layer of protection against break-ins. You might want to discuss smart locks or just get some advice.
Don’t Overlook Windows and Outbuildings
It’s easy to focus on doors, but remember to check and, if necessary, change locks on windows, garages, sheds, and side gates. These entry points are just as important for your overall security. A comprehensive approach ensures no weak links in your home’s defenses. When you move in, check all windows have a lock and key and that they operate correctly. Getting everything done in one go will save the cost of repeat visits in the future.
Wndow shuts & mechanism cleaned & serviced
Final Thoughts
In the whirlwind of moving house, changing the locks might seem like a small detail, but it’s one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your loved ones and your possessions. By making this a priority, you’ll be able to enjoy your new home safe in the knowledge that you’re in control of who comes and goes.
After all, home is where you should always feel secure. Don’t leave it to chance—change your locks and start your new adventure the right way.
(OK, maybe not THE perfect Christmas present – but definitely something to think about!)
Practical, Thoughtful, and Full of Meaning
When it comes to choosing the perfect Christmas present, most of us find ourselves stuck between the latest gadgets, novelty jumpers, or a box of classic chocolates. But sometimes, the most memorable gifts are the ones we least expect. This year, why not consider breaking tradition and giving the gift of security, privacy, and peace of mind? Here’s why a lock could be the perfect Christmas present for your loved ones.
1. A Symbol of Security and Care
Christmas is all about showing the people in your life that you care. Gifting a lock—whether for a home, bicycle, locker, or suitcase—reflects your concern for their safety and well-being. It’s a gesture that quietly says, “I want you and your belongings to be safe,” and that’s a sentiment that will be appreciated long after the festivities are over.
2. A Practical Present They’ll Actually Use
Let’s be honest: how many presents end up collecting dust in a drawer by January? Unlike some novelty gifts, a lock is something people actually need. From safeguarding bikes on the daily commute to securing precious memories in a diary or jewellery box, a good lock is the gift that keeps on giving. With so many styles available—padlocks, smart locks, combination locks—there’s one to suit everyone’s needs.
3. Suitable for All Ages and Lifestyles
Locks are versatile gifts for all generations. Children might need a sturdy padlock for their school locker, while teenagers could use a lock for their gym bag. Adults will appreciate a reliable bike or door lock, and seasoned travellers will love a TSA-approved luggage lock. No matter the age or lifestyle, everyone has something worth protecting.
4. Encourages Good Habits
Giving a lock as a present isn’t just about the item itself—it’s about encouraging responsibility and good habits. For children and teens, it’s a gentle nudge towards looking after their possessions. For adults, it can be a timely reminder to update security, whether at home or on the move.
5. Personalisation Adds That Special Touch
Locks may seem utilitarian, but they can also be deeply personal. Many locks can be engraved with a name, a special date, or a message. Imagine the delight of receiving a padlock with a heartfelt engraving, perhaps to commemorate a special Christmas or a new home. It transforms a simple object into a keepsake.
6. Affordable Yet Meaningful
The festive season is not just about grand gestures; it’s the thought that counts. Locks are typically affordable, making them a brilliant choice for stocking fillers or Secret Santa gifts. Yet, their meaning runs deeper than their price tag, offering both practicality and sentiment in one neat package.
7. A Nod to Tradition (With a Modern Twist)
In some cultures, locks are exchanged as tokens of love and longevity—think of couples attaching padlocks to bridges as symbols of enduring affection. Gifting a lock this Christmas gives a nod to those traditions, while also embracing the latest in security technology, from fingerprint padlocks to smart door locks.
Conclusion
So, if you’re on the hunt for a Christmas present that’s practical, meaningful, and sure to be appreciated, look no further than a lock. It’s a gift that says “I care,” and offers peace of mind all year round. After all, isn’t that what Christmas is all about?
Changing Locks When You Move – and why it’s important
Securing Your New Beginning
Moving into a new home is an exciting experience, filled with possibilities and the fresh promise of a new start. Amidst the bustle of packing, unpacking, and redecorating, one critical step is often overlooked: changing the locks on your new property. While it may seem like a minor detail, changing the locks & updating them is an essential measure for protecting your home, belongings, and loved ones.
Why Changing Locks Matters
When you take ownership of a new home—be it a flat, house, or even a let property—you can never be entirely certain how many sets of keys are in circulation. Previous owners, tenants, estate agents, cleaners, builders, and even neighbours might still have a copy. By changing the locks, you establish control and peace of mind, knowing exactly who has access to your property.
Protecting Your Family and Belongings
Your new home is likely filled with personal possessions, treasured items, and, most importantly, the people you care about. Failing to change the locks leaves you vulnerable to uninvited guests. Burglaries and unauthorised entries are often crimes of opportunity; ensuring your locks are unique to you greatly reduces the risk.
Meeting Insurance Requirements
Many insurance policies require evidence that the property has secure locks, and some may void claims if it’s discovered you did not change them after moving in. By updating your locks, you not only strengthen your home’s defences but also ensure you’re meeting the terms and conditions of your insurer—potentially saving you a headache should you ever need to make a claim.
Peace of Mind
There’s no substitute for the peace of mind that comes from knowing your home is secure. Sleeping soundly in your new surroundings is easier when you know you’ve taken proactive steps to protect your household. It’s a simple one-off task that can save you worry and stress down the line.
Don’t Forget Internal and Outbuildings
While the front and back doors are obvious priorities, don’t overlook other access points. Garages, sheds, garden gates, and even internal doors may also require updated locks—particularly if they provide access to valuables or private areas.
How to Change Your Locks
Contact a reputable locksmith who is approved by a recognised trade association.
Consider upgrading to more secure lock types, such as anti-snap cylinders or smart locks.
Retain control of all new keys, and only provide copies to trusted individuals.
Dispose of old keys securely to prevent them falling into the wrong hands.
Conclusion
Changing the locks is a simple, affordable step that makes a world of difference to your home security. As you settle into your new home, make lock replacement a top priority—it’s a small investment in your safety, comfort, and peace of mind. After all, your new chapter deserves to start on the right foot: safe, secure, and truly yours.
This week I have been to three properties to replace mechanisms that have cost the customers a lot of money. In all three cases, the cost could have been avoided with very easy door maintenance. Doors with multipoint locking mechanisms have various bolts, hooks and/or rollers. When they have bolts at the top and bottom going up and down, the one going down is the problem. A bolt going down means a hole in the floor for that bolt to go in to and thanks to Newton and his pesky discovery of gravity, a hole going down gets full of lots of things you don’t want, from small stones to compacted dirt over a long period of time. Taking seconds to hoover any floor holes around doors every time you vacuum your floors can potentially save you a rather large locksmith bill. If you have allowed these holes to fill, digging out any compacted grit with a screwdriver first will be a good start.
Another culprit that can cost money comes in the form of six legs. If you have wood doors with multi-point locks and no top and bottom bolts, insects have a habit of nesting behind the mechanism. Here is an image of one I removed this week.
That nest material sets rock hard and breaks the mechanism. You can usually tell if you have nesting insects by leaving the door wide open (usually outward opening doors) and watching to see if the parent swoops in or out. If they do, get someone like me to clear out the nest before it becomes a problem. If not, then regularly treat the area with (preferably Eco-friendly) repellents.
The last big problem of the summer is the heat. Plastic doors in particular (but wood doors as well), contract and warp in the heat. If your door is difficult in the morning sun, It may be OK again in the cooler evening when the sun is not shining directly on it. The parts to really watch here are hooks. If a plastic door warps, or a wooden door contracts too much, the hooks might separate too much to engage properly into the holes they go into. Trying to force them is likely to break your mechanism, When this happens you will need either a locksmith or door fitter to come along and adjust your hinges.
If you are having any issues with multi-point door mechanisms, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Multipoint locking doors are increasingly popular in homes and commercial properties due to their superior security features. With locks engaging at multiple points along the frame, these doors offer enhanced protection from break-ins and better sealing against external elements. However, like any mechanical system, they require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Below is a thorough guide on how to maintain these complex yet valuable systems.
Understanding Multipoint Locking Systems
Before delving into maintenance tips, it’s essential to understand what a multipoint locking system entails. These systems typically feature three or more locking points, which simultaneously engage when the door handle is lifted or turned. The locking points often include the main latch, deadbolt, and additional hooks or bolts along the edge of the door.
Why Maintenance Matters
Multipoint locking systems are key to your door’s security and efficiency. Proper maintenance ensures:
Consistent functionality: Prevent stiff mechanisms or misaligned locks that compromise security.
Prolonged lifespan: Reduce wear and tear by addressing minor issues before they escalate.
Enhanced energy efficiency: Maintain proper sealing to prevent drafts and energy loss.
Routine Maintenance Tips
1. Regular Cleaning
Dust and debris can accumulate inside the locking system, hindering smooth operation. To clean:
Use a soft cloth to wipe down the exterior parts of the lock.
For internal components, employ a dry brush or compressed air to remove dust.
Avoid using water or harsh cleaning agents that could corrode metal components.
2. Lubrication
Proper lubrication is vital for keeping the locking mechanism smooth and functional.
Apply a silicone-based lubricant or specialist lock lubricant to all moving parts, such as latches, hooks, and bolts.
Avoid oil-based lubricants, as they can attract dirt and create a sticky residue.
Conduct lubrication every six months or as needed, depending on use.
3. Inspect Alignment
Misalignment can cause difficulty in locking or closing the door. Check for:
Uneven gaps between the door and frame when closed.
Strain or resistance when engaging the locks.
If misalignment occurs:
Adjust the strike plates on the frame using a screwdriver.
Ensure the door hinges are tightened and properly aligned.
4. Check for Wear and Tear
Over time, components of the locking system may wear out. Inspect for:
Cracks, rust, or deformities in the locking points.
Loose screws or bolts in the assembly.
Handle mechanisms that jiggle or feel unstable.
Replace damaged parts promptly to avoid compromising the entire system.
Advanced Maintenance Practices
1. Professional Inspection
While routine checks are beneficial, a professional locksmith or technician can perform a detailed inspection of your multipoint locking system. Annual inspections can:
Identify hidden issues, such as internal wear or corrosion.
Provide adjustments that require specialised tools or expertise.
2. Replacing Components
If your locking system shows signs of significant damage or is consistently malfunctioning, it may be time to replace individual components. This may include:
Worn-out handles or levers.
Damaged locks or strike plates.
Hooks or bolts that no longer engage correctly.
Ensure replacements are compatible with your existing system to maintain effectiveness.
Best Practices for Long-Term Care
1. Avoid Excessive Force
Never force the door handle or locks if they resist movement. Doing so can cause damage to the internal components. Instead, investigate and resolve the issue.
2. Protect Against Moisture
Multipoint locking systems are susceptible to rust caused by moisture. Protect your locks by:
Installing weatherstripping to minimise exposure to rain or humidity.
Avoiding water-based cleaning methods.
Applying anti-corrosion spray to exposed metal parts.
3. Use the Locks Regularly
Engage the locks frequently to ensure all components remain active and functional. Prolonged inactivity can lead to stiffness or mechanical failure.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Neglecting Routine Checks
Skipping inspections can allow minor issues to worsen over time, leading to expensive repairs.
2. Using Incorrect Lubricants
Oil-based products can cause dirt buildup, reducing the efficiency of the locking mechanism.
3. Ignoring Signs of Damage
Failing to address visible wear or malfunction may compromise security and lead to system failure.
Conclusion
Multipoint locking doors provide unmatched security and efficiency, making them a valuable asset to your property. By implementing regular maintenance practices, such as cleaning, lubrication, alignment checks, and professional inspections, you can ensure the system operates smoothly for years to come. Avoid common mistakes and stay vigilant for signs of wear and tear—your diligence will pay off in improved safety, energy efficiency, and the longevity of your door system. Proper care is not just an investment in your security but also a guarantee of peace of mind.
Should you have any questions regarding the above, please do not hesitate to contact me.
The questions that, as a locksmith, I am most commonly asked are here with my answers
Do Skeleton Keys open all locks?
A key to open all locks is only found in magical fantasy. Even us locksmiths need many different lock picks for the different types of locks we come across, so that hero you see on the TV who carries a few needle like implements in a little pouch, is only making a small representation of what is really needed, and even then, the speed shown would be for very easy, smooth running locks. That being said, each lock type and brand have a finite number of combinations and if you were to try your house key in enough other houses using the same brands and lock type, you will find houses that you can enter with ease. This is an important point when moving into a newly built home on a large estate. The average new house comes with front, back and patio doors. A 500 house estate means around 1500 locks and the developer will use the same brand and lock type on every one of them. Locking doors to garages and sheds could easily make that 2,500. With that many locks, the statistics say there is an extremely good chance someone else’s key on that estate will fit your lock. So, it is very good advice to change your locks, even on a new home, preferably to a different brand to all the rest.
How will the locksmith gain entry?
There are many ways to bypass a lock. You might even want to see for yourself how it is done. Please do not be offended if the locksmith asks you to step away while he works. Some techniques require a learned feel or special technique. Watching the locksmith work can show people how to get into other people’s homes which is not really a morally good thing. Also, watching the locksmith and trying to replicate what they do next time, might lead to bigger complications and an even bigger bill. Besides, if they are given room to concentrate, they can work faster, getting you in quicker.
Why do locksmiths charge so much?
Hopefully, you only see the locksmith for a very short time. What you don’t see are the endless hours driving between jobs. It is very that two people have an emergency next door to each other and usually the case that a locksmith will criss-cross his patch several times in the same day. In cities the patch may be small but the traffic will be horrendous and rurally, the patch is much bigger due to lack of population density. On top of that, locksmiths need to keep up with the latest changes in law and products, keep on top of their own accounts, maintain their vehicles, replace tools and nowadays, write blogs! There might be additional training programs. This doesn’t just mean the cost of the course itself, but losing however many days work the course entails. Then there is the time spent ordering parts online or time spent in shops purchasing tools, etc. As a cost example, I have to do two jobs a month just to pay for the chisels and drill bits I will need to replace each and every month. So you can see, there is a lot more cost involved than just the time the locksmith spends with you.
If I have my locks changed, how many keys do I get and where do I get more cut?
Most locks come with two or three keys. If you are booking a lock change for a future date, it is wise to get the number of keys you require ordered with the lock. This way, you can guarantee the keys will have been tested in that lock before they get to you. Some locksmiths can cut keys on site which again is a sure way to see they are tested. The alternative is to go to your local engraver/cobbler who will usually provide key cutting services. But here you are chancing your luck, because you will have to wait until you get home to try the keys and if they don’t work, you have to go all the way back to the shop again, still with no guarantee it won’t happen again. Chances are, key cutting outlets will not use genuine branded blanks either. You might think chain key cutters would be the best option but these have high staff turnover and very basic training. Every time I have been recalled to a faulty lock that I have installed, the problem has been poorly cut keys from chain stores. If getting keys cut, always ask for genuine branded blanks that should show the same brand name on the head of the key as the one you getting copied. Many will tell you the non-brands are just as good, but this just isn’t so. Demand genuine. Leave a deposit and pick up the keys a couple of days later if needed. This could save you a much more pricey second visit from the locksmith. Never use an already copied key to cut another. If you have lost your original keys, get a new lock an order the appropriate number of keys with it.
What is British Standard and why do I need it?
British Standard or BS3621 is a rating for the effectiveness of locks against certain attacks that includes, picking, drilling, slipping, bumping and a whole host of other terms you might not be familiar with. Your home insurance will demand your locks on wooden doors be up to this standard. While it is not an insurance requirement for doors where you have to lift the handles before locking, every locksmith will correctly tell you that you should a BS3621 lock on these doors as well because without them, the intruder can enter your home in under 60 seconds with no power tools. Even if the intruder does get in through a BS3621 rated lock, your insurance might not pay out if another door on your house is not up to standard, so check now that all your final exit doors have a BS3621 kite mark.
What is a fair price for my locksmith?
This is a bit of a minefield. The nationals will charge more because they have to make their profits, pay office staff and pay the locksmith they sub-contract to do the work, but they will do the work that saves you ringing several people in an emergency, and many local locksmiths rely on the work that comes in from the nationals while they get themselves established. That aside, locksmiths seem to have a standard rate, evening rate and through the night rate, plus weekend rates and bank holiday rates. If possible, you should check the locksmith’s website to see if they have any indication of what you might expect to pay. Personally, I have one rate no matter what time of day of what day of the week it might happen to be. But if you have the time, you should ring two or three locksmiths. The cheapest one will probably be the least experienced or hiding costs until he gets there. The most expensive one will be over pricing and you should usually go with the one in the middle, especially if these prices are wildly different. Be sure to get quote on the phone, a revised quote once the locksmith has visually assessed the job, and find out if the price includes VAT. You also want the locksmith to inform you if anything happens that will cause a price increase. The locksmith should tell you about any potential price increase reasons before continuation.
How long does it take the locksmith to open my locked door?
This can be seconds to a very long time. Locks are often worn, rusty or might have something causing a jamb. The locksmith is wary of damaging your door so will take time and care to make sure the job is done quickly with the least amount of damage. A simple latch lock might be opened in seconds, but a seized multi-point locking system can be very difficult to open without causing damage to the door. Rest assured, the locksmith wants to get you in just as quickly as you want to be in yourself. With car locks, the picks require feel of springs inside the lock itself. If the lock is old, this feel can be difficult, or if the internal workings are too loose, the individual parts can keep passing beyond their opening point, making a three minute job last an age. Patience is your only requirement.
Why do I need to pay on the day?
You are paying for a service and often new products. Most locksmiths are sole traders and unable to run back accounts like big companies. The costs of materials and van/tool maintenance keeps thing tight all the time. We just cannot add tracking who owes what where and when all the time in addition to everything else. Now that doesn’t mean we are heartless and unsympathetic to those who just don’t have the means to pay in an emergency situation. If you genuinely cannot pay on the day, make the locksmith aware before work commences and something can usually be worked out, but be aware, should you not pay the locksmith within an agreed time, he may well charge late payment fees or you might just find yourself paying more should you need that locksmith in another emergency.
So, there you go, the locksmiths most commonly asked questions !
Last week I quoted a customer for multiple locks within a building of flats in Cromer. I was expecting to wait a while for the confirmation of the job as three of the flats are holiday lets and all four have different owners. In fact, my point of contact phoned to give the job the go ahead very quickly as the neighbouring building had a fire and everyone had to be evacuated for safety. Thankfully, no one was hurt, but guests in the holiday lets did have issues trying to find keys they had placed away from the doors in properties they were not used to.
A thumb turn, keyless escape can be a reduction in security and goes against every bit of best security advice. However, in the event of a fire, your guests are probably going to be sleepy and panicked, the seconds it takes to find the place they have put the keys could be the difference between life and death.
The fire regulations have been in place for a year at time of writing. While a grey area on time was given to get the various jobs done, I doubt any insurance company will pay out after so long should the worst happen. That means those involved in any incidents can chase you, the owner for negligence and your letting agent as well. You could even face criminal charges.
If you have multiple doors, you might think just the front door and back door are adequate to change, but you must look at every room and think to your self if there were a fire the other side of that room’s inner door, how will someone in a panic get out? If there is a big room with two or more outer doors, will changing one be enough? Is it possible a fire in the middle of that room could cut off access to escape? I know it can be expensive, but nowhere near as expensive as a court battle, even if you win.
If you own a holiday let property or run a property let business, it is now past time for you to have your exit doors converted to fire regulation keyless escape.
Here at AC Locksmiths Norfolk, I have always been proud to offer my customers first rate work at competitive prices. Unlike most locksmiths, I display my prices on my website, I do not raise my prices if you call me out at 3am, at the weekend or on a bank holiday. On top of this, I have also kept under the VAT threshold to ensure the price I quote, is the price you get. Despite Brexit and Covid, I have not changed my labour rates in over four years.
Unfortunately, this now must change. I have looked at adjusting the prices of my products. I have looked at smaller changes to products and labour. But in the end, I think it fairer to all my customers to put the change on labour rates only.
If I need to make a second visit though, I will not charge labour when I come back to you. I will still offer free security checks with no obligation quotes, and if I do a door adjustment on UPVC doors, I will still give you a free recall if your door needs it within the next 6 months. No other locksmith I know of will do that for you.
So as of today 07/03/2022, my labour rates will be going up to £75 for all new business.
Hope you are all safe and well in these strange times.
Most of my customers know that I am far from an average locksmith. In addition to emergency call outs for domestic and commercial properties, I offer security upgrades, Smart alarm and CCTV sysytems, video doorbells, car key production, locked car entry, and free security checks. In some cases, I even do light house clearance jobs And now, I am offering something more. As soon as this lockdown is over, I will be offering a UPVC window valeting service. This is not intended to compete with or be anything like your normal window cleaner who might turn up and give your glass a quick shine. No, this is making the whole window look great again.
There will be three levels of service:
Bronze level;
This will clean the outside of your windows, including frames. It will start with getting rid of all those old cobwebs that gather dust where the frame meets the brickwork. The window frame is then thoroughly cleaned. You will need to leave the window open as this service will include cleaning out the inner recess of all opening windows, getting rid of more webs and any other creepy crawly evidence. Everything will be done to clean all accessible areas from outside the property.
Before
After
Mildew removed – before
Mildew removed – after
Silver level;
This picks up where Bronze left off. I now come inside your property and clean the insides of your windows, double checking any parts of the inner recess and window itself that I might not have been able to see from the outside. Your windows will be a sparkling frame you want to look out of again.
Before
After
Gold level;
Here you get everything in Bronze and Silver, but now we remove the opening window so that we can see and get to every nook and cranny that might have been missed before. We will then service the window mechanism, checking for signs damage. Where possible, we will re-align problem windows so that they work more easily and if new mechanisms are needed, these can be ordered and fitted with no labour fee on the date of fitting (ie just the cost of the materials). Finally, where needed, anti-mildew spray will be applied to sills and areas that are prone.
Window shuts, mechanism cleaned & serviced
As with all my work, I want to make pricing fair and even for all my customers. This is not a quick splash the window with soapy water and wipe it away type service. And while I do not waste time while working and will certainly not charge time spent chatting if you happen to make me a cup of tea, the most transparent way to price this work, is to charge my standard labour rate of £65 per hour. Obviously this will mean you get more windows completed in an hour of Bronze level than you would at Silver or Gold. This will also give you, the customer, flexibility. You might tell me to only do certain windows to certain levels, mixing what you need to suite you. Alternatively, you might tell me to work for three hours this week and then come back and do another three hours next week or even next month, depending on budget capabilities.
In the first instance, this work will only be available for easily accessible ground floor windows. All inner window sills should be cleared of any decoration and any hanging window decorations should also be taken down to avoid accidental damage or possible dirt spatter.
If you have an interest in this service once the current lockdown has been lifted, please let me know via any of the methods on my contact page. In the meantime, my standard services are still available whilst observing social distancing, using anti-bacterial cleaners and wearing PPE where possible.
What is the difference between getting my replacement key from the manufacturer and an auto locksmith?
The manufacturer will usually be able to have your key replaced just from knowing your vehicle ID. You usually get your replacement key within the week. You know your manufacturer will have the key type you require.
The auto locksmith will have the ability to generate a new key on the spot. While it might not be a genuine brand replacement, your new key will be just as good (if not better) than the manufacturer key. The auto locksmith can reprogram your vehicle on the spot, so that any lost/stolen keys are unable to start the vehicle. The auto locksmith comes to you, meaning you can still go to work on time. Most of the time, you will pay a lot less for the convenience of an auto locksmith.
What is cut to copy?
This is where the key is cut using the existing key as a template.
What is cut to code?
Some vehicle keys can be cut using codes taken from the vehicle VIN number or from other sources.
What is key cloning?
This is where the key is completely copied including the data on the transponder that talks to the car. While there may be two keys, the car will believe there is only one. This is important to know because some vehicles must have two separate keys programmed.
What is a vehicle PIN?
This is a code that works like the pin number on your cash card. Without your pin, you can’t draw out cash. Without a vehicle PIN, you can’t extract the information needed to program new keys.
Can I buy replacement keys on line?
Yes, and they can be quite cheap. But often, there are hidden extras, like programming the remotes to your car.
Can I call my breakdown service company if I lock my keys in my car?
Yes you can, but they often call an auto locksmith and you then have to pay. As an example, I was called by a breakdown service provider recently. The breakdown engineer took an hour to get to them, spent two hours trying to fish the keys out of the vehicle with the top of the door wedged slightly open and failed. He called me. Within 45 minutes, I had arrived, opened the vehicle and was on my way home.
What are the most common mistakes people make?
In no particular order; shutting keys in the boot without having the main doors unlocked, leaving the spare key 200 miles away at home when going on holiday, letting children play with the car keys, letting the remotes go way past their best condition, treating remotes poorly, letting batteries die, losing keys on the beach, not getting a replacement when the first key is lost, buying a vehicle with only one key (who has the other, and do they know your address?
Why should I get new keys when buying a second hand car?
How well do you know the seller? Most of us buy cars from someone we don’t know. We often give over our address if the vehicle is being delivered, or if we are taking finance, etc. But we don’t know if the seller has already had extra keys made. If you are paying out thousands of pounds to have a car, is it not wise to pay a little more and make sure the vehicle will only drive away from your driveway with keys you possess?
How do I know I am paying the right price?
Get quotes. Two or three at least. A good auto locksmith will advertise prices on their website, but these will be guidance only as the cost of parts and software packages vary a lot between manufacturers. Some work is simple, other work might involve having to get behind your dashboard and removal of computer chips. A difference of just one year can make a particular vehicle much harder to deal with. In rare cases, the auto locksmith might have to walk away unable to do anything. If he is any good, he will not charge you when this happens, unless you have made some prior agreement. If you get three quotes, and one is much less than the other two, investigate further before accepting the cheapest quote. Has he quoted the full job, or been a bit vague? People who quote too little are often not properly trained and are more likely to do something that harms the computer in your vehicle. If that problem takes a while to arise, they will not be around when you go after them for damages.
If you have any questions you would like answered, please contact through any method on the contacts page.
