How to identify a rogue locksmith

There are rogue locksmiths operating in your area! These people are likely to over-charge you, carry out unnecessary work and/or cause damage to your property. Due to a lack of regulation in the profession, a rogue locksmith may be uninsured, untrained, uncertified and have a criminal record. If you find yourself in need of a locksmith, then there are certain things to look out for to avoid being taken advantage of. In this article we’ll discuss how to identify a rogue locksmith and some of the tell-tale signs to be wary of.

Low Prices aren't necessarily low

Firstly, rogue locksmiths will attract your attention by offering a very low price. You may see a Google Ad with prices starting from £39/£49. This is not the price you pay – this is typically just the call-out fee to get them there. Once there they put you under pressure to agree to work that is not necessary or just destroy your lock so it needs to be replaced and you have no choice. You can then be charged over £500 for what should have been a simple non-destructive entry for less than £100. A genuine locksmith should have no issue in advising at least a guide price based on asking some simple questions up front.

Once someone has been drawn in by the cheap advertised price, a rogue locksmith will make false claims of third party accreditation. Their websites will include references to being vetted by third parties and being certified by a trade association. It is easy to make such claims, but these claims should be verified if you can. A legitimate locksmith will happily provide you with the details of their accreditation and you should be able to find that locksmith on the association website. For example, I am a member of the UK Locksmiths Association, an organisation that trains and vets locksmiths to give consumers the peace of mind that the locksmith they’re using is a competent and trusted tradesman. My details can be found on their website here.

The Police do not approve locksmiths

Often a rogue locksmith will claim to be police recommended in order to give them the appearance of extra credibility. Such a claim is false. The police do not recommend locksmiths.

There is no such thing as being “police approved”, the police do not approve locksmiths – only formal trade bodies will do this.

When the ‘locksmith’ arrives do not be afraid to ask for identification and proof of accreditation. When you speak to them on the phone, tell them you expect the locksmith to provide this information on arrival along with evidence that they are DBS checked and insured.

If the locksmith arrives in a car (and not a van), then this should be treated as a suspicious indicator that they may be a rogue trader.

Remember, if it looks/sounds too good to be true, then it probably is! If they keep mentioning the low price, but are vague on details, then it is best to avoid them! For further information Contact Lock Guy – Independent Locksmith Services

Got a question about a lock issue you may have? Why not have a look at the FAQ page or one of the helpful advice videos on the Media page.