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A handyman (or handyperson) is someone who carries out a variety of jobs. They typically do not require specialist qualifications to do. These include simple repairs and general home improvements. (Here’s a full definition). When faced with a lock problem, the initial instinct for many homeowners is to call a handyman. After all, it may seem like a straightforward task, and hiring a specialised locksmith might be expensive. However, while a handyman might offer a quick fix, that decision could end up costing more in the long run. In this article I lay out the arguments as to whether you should use a locksmith or use a handyman when you have a lock problem.
As a qualified locksmith I aim to explore whether it is acceptable for a handyman to be used for this type of work or whether a locksmith is needed. It will highlight some of the potential issues as well as some potential advantages and disadvantages.
A handyman can offer a very valuable service for all kinds of general jobs around the home. Especially to those who are unable to do DIY. Perhaps this is due to a lack of skill/knowledge, mobility, time or just lacking the right tools.
Often a handyman will offer lock related services such as fitting a new lock or replacing an existing lock. This article (written by a qualified locksmith) aims to explore whether it is acceptable for a handyman to be used for this type of work. Or whether a locksmith is actually needed. It will highlight some of the potential issues as well as some potential advantages and disadvantages.
The first thing to remember is that being a professional locksmith is a skilled profession that requires specialist training and experience. Locks protect your property, your possessions and those people that reside there. So, it is entirely possible for a handyman to undertake certain tasks. But one has to question whether it is worth the risk of compromising the security of a home. There are distinctive advantages when you use a locksmith rather than use a handyman:
A good locksmith has had to complete specific training to be able to do their job effectively.
There are a huge variety of locks in use and a locksmith spends their whole time working on and learning about these locks. A locksmith knows common problems and how to avoid them and how to resolve lock issues.
Locksmiths have access to specialist lock hardware suppliers at trade prices. So they can source parts more competitively than a handyman.
Locksmiths carry stock of all frequently used parts. And therefore can normally complete a job in one visit without having to go away to order/purchase parts.
Locksmiths can select the appropriate lock according to a customers budget. Then fit it correctly to ensure that it gives the maximum protection. Locksmiths are also used to giving general security advice.
A handyman will generally always opt to replace a part rather than try to to repair it. Whilst this might be necessary, locksmiths understand how they work and are trained to repair locks.
Due to their superior knowledge regarding locks, specialist tools and the stock available, a locksmith will be able to complete a lock related job much quicker than a handyman and normally in one visit. Remember: ‘time-is-money’, and a handyman may need to charge for repeat visits.
And from a credibility perspective, a professional locksmith will normally be part of a trade association, like the UK Locksmith Association. This provides assurance about a certain standard of competence, the fact the locksmith has been vetted, and can even intervene if a customer is not satisfied with the service they received.
So what are the common types of tasks that people often think about whether to use a locksmith or use a handyman for?
REPLACING A LOCK
A common task that a handyman will normally say they can do is to replace a lock. But a lock is not just a lock. There are many standards with differing costs and levels of quality.
A locksmith is continually keeping up to date with the latest products, regulations and policies to ensure that they are selecting the right lock. Simply replacing the lock with an equivalent may not be correct and could invalidate a home insurance policy or breach fire regulations that may have changed since the original lock was installed.
LOCKED OUT
If ever you find yourself in an emergency situation, when you are locked out of your home, you must use a locksmith. A handyman just does not have the specialist tools required to get into a property non-destructively. Additionally, locksmiths offer round-the-clock emergency services unlike handymen.
KEY SERVICES
Handymen also do not offer any rekeying or key cutting services. A lock installed by a handyman will only work with the new keys that come with that lock. A locksmith can cut additional keys and can even provide a service to reduce down the amount of keys required by having one key that operates all locks.
Handymen have the skills and ability to fix and do almost anything and are often skilled tradesman in their own right (e.g. carpenters / decorators). However, they are not specifically trained or experienced in locks. By choosing an expert locksmith, you are working with an industry professional who has the knowledge and expertise related to the latest locksmith methods and products. Locksmiths have undergone extensive training to become qualified. Their knowledge and understanding of the industry make them the experts when it comes to security.
The internal mechanisms in locks are usually delicate in their construction, and they can be easily damaged if not handled correctly. A handyman who lacks experience in lock repairs might inadvertently cause additional harm while attempting to fix the problem. This could lead to more expensive repairs or even require replacing the entire lock, increasing costs.
Professional locksmiths typically carry liability insurance and offer guarantees for their work. However, often a handyman might not offer the same level of assurance. If something goes wrong with the lock after a handyman has worked on it, then there may well be no official recourse or compensation. This can be especially expensive if the door itself was damaged whilst the lock was being worked on.
The big advantage with calling a locksmith is the advice they can provide. They will be able to offer the best advice on what will work for a particular situation. Locksmiths can provide a full service by assessing, supplying, and fitting security systems.
A Handyman provides a very useful general service for basic tasks. As soon as there is a job that requires specialist knowledge (e.g. a locksmith, but also other trades such as electricians and plumbers), then it is always much better to call in a professional.
As a locksmith operating in Essex, I do get calls from people who have had a handyman out to their property to then be advised that they are not able to complete the job.
So save yourself some money and get the job done right and call a locksmith in the first instance.
I hope this article on whether to use a Locksmith or use a Handyman has been interesting.
For further advice on anything lock related, or for any lock requirements in Essex, 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.