FAQ

A locksmith can be helpful in a variety of situations, such as:

• If you have lost your keys and need a new set made
• If you need to change the locks on your home or business for security reasons
• If you are locked out of your home, business, or vehicle
• If you need a lock repaired or replaced
• If you need a safe installed or opened

If you find yourself in any of these situations, we at SJ Locksmiths can help. 

Here are a few tips for choosing a reputable locksmith in the UK:

• Check for reviews and ratings. Look for reviews on the locksmith’s website, as well as on independent review sites like Facebook, Google and Trustpilot.
• Ask for a written estimate. A reputable locksmith will be happy to provide you with a written estimate of the cost of the work to be done.
• Ask for proof of identification and a business card. A reputable locksmith will have identification and a business card available to show that they are a legitimate business.
• Be wary of locksmiths who give you a quote over the phone without seeing the job. The cost of a locksmith’s services can vary greatly depending on the work that needs to be done, so it’s important for the locksmith to see the job in person to give an accurate estimate. However, some are rather simple to quote, so get several quotes to be sure.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that you choose a reputable locksmith to deal with the current situation.

It depends on the specific terms of your home insurance policy. Some home insurance policies in the UK may cover the cost of hiring a locksmith if you are locked out of your home, but this is not always the case. It is always a good idea to check the terms of your insurance policy to see what is covered.

If your home insurance policy does not cover the cost of hiring a locksmith, you may still be able to get help from your insurance company. Many insurance companies have a list of recommended tradespeople, including locksmiths, that they can recommend to policyholders in need of these services. However, you may have to pay for the locksmith’s services out of pocket and then claim the cost back from your insurance company.

It is always a good idea to have a plan in place for dealing with emergencies, including being locked out of your home. This might include keeping the phone number of a reputable locksmith on hand, as well as the contact information for your insurance company. That way, you can quickly get the help you need if you find yourself in this situation.

Yes, a locksmith can often open a door without a key. There are several techniques that a locksmith can use to open a lock without a key, depending on the type of lock and the tools available. Some common methods that a locksmith might use include:

• Lock picking: This involves using special tools, such as picks and tension wrenches, to manipulate the lock’s internal mechanism and open it without a key.
• Lock bumping: This technique involves using a specially-cut key, called a bump key, to open a lock by applying force to the key as it is turned in the lock.
• Bypassing the lock: In some cases, a locksmith may be able to open a door by bypassing the lock entirely. This could involve removing the lock from the door or disassembling it to access the mechanism.
• Drilling the lock: As a last resort, a locksmith may need to drill the lock to open the door. This is usually only done if the lock is damaged or cannot be opened using other methods.

It’s important to note that these methods should only be used by trained professionals. Attempting to open a lock without the proper training or tools can damage the lock or the door, and could even be illegal in some cases.

Yes, locksmiths can often make keys without the original. There are a few different methods that a locksmith can use to make a key without the original, such as:

• Tracing the key: If you have a key that is similar to the one you need, a locksmith may be able to use it to create a new key. The locksmith can trace the key using a special tool, and then use this information to create a new key.
• Using a code: Many locks have a code stamped on them that can be used to create a new key. A locksmith can use this code to create a key that will fit the lock.
• Key duplication: In some cases, a locksmith may be able to use a key duplication machine to create a new key from an existing key.
• Lock picking: If all else fails, a locksmith may be able to open the lock and create a key by examining the internal mechanism of the lock and making a key to fit it.

It’s important to note that not all locks can be opened or copied without the original key. Some high-security locks and electronic locks may be more difficult to work with, and it may not be possible to create a new key without the original.

If a locksmith is unable to open a door, there are a few steps you can take:

• Ask the locksmith for an explanation: A good locksmith will be able to explain why they were unable to open the door and what your options are.
• Consider hiring a different locksmith: If you are not satisfied with the explanation given by the first locksmith, you may want to consider hiring a different locksmith to try to open the door. Be sure to choose a reputable locksmith who has the necessary training and experience to handle your situation.
• Consider other options: Depending on the situation, there may be other options for getting the door open. For example, if the door is stuck or damaged, you may need to call a carpenter or a handyman to repair or replace the door.
• Seek legal advice: If you are unable to open the door and are having trouble getting a satisfactory resolution from the locksmith or other professionals, you may want to seek legal advice. An attorney may be able to help you understand your rights and options in this situation.

It’s important to remember that while locksmiths are skilled professionals, they are not always able to open every type of lock or door. If a locksmith is unable to open your door, they should be able to provide you with options for getting it open or suggest an alternative course of action.