FAQs

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.

Some locksmiths will charge for a callout, while others don’t. We at SJ locksmiths don’t charge a callout and are happy to visit your location to provide an accurate estimate.

We have fixed prices for our time and parts, which we use to help estimate the cost of the job. However, the costs can change as it may take less time or more time to complete it.

It’s up to you whether you pay in cash or by card.

In many cases, yes. We always try non-destructive entry first, meaning we’ll aim to get you back inside without damaging the lock or replacing parts unnecessarily. Sometimes a lock has failed internally or security features prevent this, in which case we’ll explain your options clearly before carrying out any work.

The cost depends on the type of job, the lock involved, the time of day, and whether any replacement parts are needed. Pricing is explained before work begins, and payment is only taken once the job is complete.

Yes. Lockouts are one of the most common reasons people call us. In most cases, we can help you regain entry quickly and with minimal disruption. For security reasons, we may ask for proof of address or ID once access has been gained.

Yes. We help with lockouts, broken locks, snapped keys, faulty door mechanisms, lost keys, break-ins, and urgent home security issues. Whether it’s a door that suddenly won’t lock or a key stuck in the mechanism, we’ll always try to find the safest and most sensible solution.

Yes. If your home has been broken into, we can help secure the property, replace damaged locks, and advise on improving security where needed. We’ll talk through practical options without pressure or unnecessary upselling.

We generally recommend it. You never really know how many spare keys are still in circulation from previous owners, tenants, tradespeople, or neighbours. Changing the locks gives peace of mind and lets you start fresh.

We generally recommend it. You never really know how many spare keys are still in circulation from previous owners, tenants, tradespeople, or neighbours. Changing the locks gives peace of mind and lets you start fresh.

It depends on the circumstances. If your keys were lost near your property or had identifying information attached, changing the locks may be sensible for security reasons. We’ll happily advise based on the situation rather than automatically recommending replacement.

Sometimes, yes. Depending on the lock and situation, we may be able to help with replacement keys once ownership and access can be verified. Occasionally, older locks or discontinued parts can take longer to source, but we’ll always do our best to find a suitable solution.

Yes. Faulty window locks, stiff handles, failed mechanisms, and locking problems are all issues we regularly see. Sometimes adjustments can be made to improve smooth opening and closing, while other situations may need repair or replacement parts. If a window starts feeling stiff or awkward, it’s often best to get it checked before it fails completely.

Usually, yes. We can often remove broken key pieces and check whether the problem is simply the key or something deeper within the lock itself. Sometimes only a replacement key is needed, while other cases may require repair or replacement.

Usually, yes. We can often remove broken key pieces and check whether the problem is simply the key or something deeper within the lock itself. Sometimes only a replacement key is needed, while other cases may require repair or replacement.

This is one of the most common problems we get called to. A sticking lock can be caused by wear and tear, weather changes, door movement, alignment problems, dirt build-up, or a failing mechanism. If your handle feels stiff, your key becomes harder to turn, or the door stops closing smoothly, it’s worth getting checked early before it becomes a complete lock failure.

Yes, especially if things suddenly feel different. Doors and windows often give warning signs before failure, such as stiffness, catching, movement, or difficulty locking. Small adjustments or repairs can sometimes prevent a bigger and more expensive problem later on.

Not every problem means a new lock is needed. We’ll always assess the issue first and recommend repair where it’s practical, secure, and cost-effective. If replacement is the better option, we’ll explain why and talk you through the choices.

Yes. We install upgraded locks designed to improve resistance against snapping, forced entry, and common attack methods. If your existing locks are outdated or below modern standards, we can explain suitable options without any pressure.

Many insurers require locks that meet certain standards, especially on external doors. If you’re unsure, we can inspect what you currently have and advise whether upgrades may be worth considering.

Yes. uPVC doors are one of the most common callouts we attend. Problems can include misalignment, worn gearboxes, stiff handles, failed mechanisms, faulty cylinders, or issues with multipoint locking systems. In many cases, adjustments can improve how the door opens, closes, and locks before things fail completely.

Some locksmiths offer vehicle locksmith services, but this depends on the type of vehicle, key system, and specialist equipment required. If we can help, we will — and if not, we’ll always try to point you in the right direction.

Many jobs can be completed in a single visit, but timing depends on the issue, lock type, parts needed, and access. Some problems are quick fixes, while others require more investigation or specialist parts.

Yes. Smart locks and keyless entry systems are becoming increasingly popular. We can advise on whether they’re suitable for your door and security needs and explain the pros and cons in plain English.

If your locks are unreliable, outdated, stiff, or no longer giving you confidence, an upgrade may improve both convenience and home security. Sometimes a repair is enough — it really depends on the condition of the lock and what you want from it.

We understand trust matters when inviting someone into your home. If you’d like reassurance about insurance, checks, or experience, just ask — we’re always happy to discuss credentials and answer questions.

Yes, we understand lock problems rarely happen at convenient times. Availability may vary, but we do our best to help when urgent situations arise.

Yes, most new locks come with spare keys included, although the number of keys provided depends on the type and brand of lock fitted.

For example, many standard euro cylinder locks and Yale-style night latches often come with three keys as standard, while some mortice locks, anti-snap cylinders, and higher-security or restricted key systems may include anywhere from two to five keys depending on the manufacturer. Specialist locks or keyed-alike systems can vary.

We’ll always let you know how many keys are included when fitting your new lock. If you need additional spare keys, we can arrange extra copies, specialist key cutting, or replacement keys for most lock types where available

Yes.

Keyed-alike locks allow multiple locks to work from one key, meaning you can unlock several doors without carrying a large bunch of keys. For example, your front door and back door, garage, gate, or office entrance can all be set up to work with the same key where suitable.

We can advise whether keyed-alike locks are suitable for your property and arrange matching lock systems to improve convenience while maintaining security.

Absolutely.

We work with management companies, letting agents, estate agents, and landlords to repair and maintain faulty communal doors.