Types of Locksmith

A locksmith is a person whose job it is to repair, fit and maintain locks as well as gain entry through locks. The term ‘Locksmith’ is a general term that covers many specialisms, so do not assume that just because you have identified a locksmith that they will be able to solve all lock related issues. Being a locksmith is a skilled profession and there are different specialisms that exist and, if you are in need of a locksmith, make sure you select one with the right skills. This article explains the main different types of locksmiths.

Residential Locksmith

These locksmiths can attend to any lock related issue around the home. They specialise is domestic properties and can resolve all manner of household lock issues including lockouts, fitting locks, repairing locks and door realignment. It is not just doors, but also windows, garages, mailboxes, outbuildings and lock boxes.

Commercial Locksmith

This discipline focuses on lock requirements for properties like businesses, offices, shops, schools and warehouses. There are some similarities with a residential locksmith, although there may be more of a focus on master key systems, panic bars & fire exit hardware, door closers, etc. There may also be an element of electronic door security involving magnetic locks or access control key code or fob entry.

Automotive Locksmith

This type of locksmith looks after the locks related to vehicles. Mainly it relates to people being locked out of their vehicle and regarding the supply of replacement keys. It requires very specialist equipment that is very different to the tools and equipment needed by a residential or commercial locksmith. For example, they will need to programme key transponders and may need advanced diagnostic tools to bypass immobilisers and encrypted keys.

Automotove locksmith should also able to fit additional locks on commercial vehicles like vans to help prevent thefts.

Safe Locksmith / Safe Engineer

If the requirement relates to a simple safe (cheap basic domestic version), then a residential or commercial locksmith will be able to help. However, if it concerns a commercial/industrial safe, then you will need a safe specialist. Such a locksmith will have very specialist equipment that they use to open safes where access cannot be gained. Fitting such a safe also needs specialist equipment as they are usually extremely heavy.

Electronic Security / Access Control Locksmith

These locksmiths typically work on large buildings like office blocks or apartment complexes. Such buildings may have a need for for things like RFID entry cards, biometric entry, keypads or intercom systems and a standard locksmith would not be expected to carry the right products or have the knowledge required to install all these types of systems.

Other Points to Note:

Within the different professions, some locksmiths may class themselves as an ‘Emergency Locksmith’ meaning that they are available on call to attend urgent problems at very short notice. If you have an emergency, look for one that advertises such a service.
Some locksmiths offer a combination of all the services mentioned above. For example, it is not uncommon to find a locksmith offering residential and commercial services together as often similar issues are found and the same tools can be used.
Remember that each of the different types of locksmiths require different tools, training and expertise to handle a particular lock/security issue effectively and efficiently.
There will be a cost difference in the different types of locksmith you engage, but selecting the right type of locksmith is very important to get the job completed well, efficiently and to ensure full compliance with all regulations (e.g. insurance). For example, fire regulations or insurance compliant locks? Read my article on insurance implications for more information.
Based on their experience, all locksmiths should be able to give general security advice based on their area of specialism and often can supply additional non-lock related products, e.g. alarms, doorbells, key safes, security lighting, etc. Read my article on what else a locksmith can do for more information.
Whatever type of locksmith you need, you still need to do your due diligence to avoid rogue locksmiths and to select a good locksmith.

If you want any further information on the different types of locksmiths or you have a requirement for a residential or commercial locksmith in Essex, then contact Lock Guy

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.