Locksmith FAQ - Common Questions Answered

We aim to reach you within 60 minutes for emergency call-outs across Catford, SE6, Lewisham, and nearby South East London areas. We always confirm your expected arrival time before dispatch - no vague estimates.

Yes. Our emergency locksmith service runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including bank holidays. Lockouts and break-ins don't choose convenient times - so neither do we.

We may ask for proof that you are the resident or occupant - for example a driving licence, bank statement, or utility bill showing your name and address. This is a standard security measure to protect both you and the property.

Stay somewhere safe and well-lit if possible. If you're locked out and the weather is bad, a neighbour, nearby shop, or your car can provide shelter. Keep your phone charged so we can call with an ETA update. Do not attempt to force the door yourself as this can cause costly damage.

Yes. Losing all keys is one of the most common emergency locksmith situations. We use non-destructive entry techniques wherever possible, then advise on a cylinder replacement to restore security. In most cases the lock does not need to be drilled.

Yes. We explain the likely cost before work starts and confirm the agreed work clearly. You stay in control, with no surprises or hidden charges.

Cost depends on the lock type, work required, and time of day. We always give a clear quote before starting - nothing is done without your agreement. Out-of-hours rates apply between 11pm and 6am.

Yes. We always confirm the price before any work begins. For larger jobs such as full lock changes or commercial repairs, we can provide a written quotation on request.

Out-of-hours rates apply between 11pm and 6am and are slightly higher than standard daytime rates to reflect the unsocial hours. We always tell you the exact price before proceeding - you are never billed without prior agreement.

In most cases, yes. We use non-destructive entry techniques as our first approach and only drill as an absolute last resort. We always explain the options clearly before proceeding.

All common residential and commercial lock types: Yale cylinders, five-lever mortice deadlocks, UPVC multipoint mechanisms, euro cylinders, rim deadlocks, lever handles, commercial deadbolts, panic hardware, padlocks, and more. We carry a wide range of replacement parts on every van.

Anti-snap cylinders are designed to break at a sacrificial point rather than giving an intruder access to the cam that operates the lock. Standard euro cylinders can be vulnerable to lock snapping - a technique used in many UK residential burglaries. If your door has a standard euro cylinder (common on UPVC and composite doors), an upgrade to an anti-snap cylinder is a cost-effective security improvement.

We stand behind our workmanship and will explain any part or manufacturer warranty that applies before installation. If something does not feel right after a visit, contact us so we can review it properly.

We cover Catford, SE6, Lewisham, Bromley, Sydenham, Forest Hill, Hither Green, Lee, Dulwich, Peckham, Greenwich, Deptford, Blackheath, New Cross, and nearby areas. If you're unsure, call us and we'll confirm.

The most common causes are a door that has dropped slightly on its hinges, a worn or broken multipoint mechanism, or a damaged euro cylinder. We diagnose the exact fault on-site and explain whether it can be repaired during that visit.

Yes - and this is often all that's needed. A cylinder replacement can be quicker and more cost-effective than changing the full multipoint mechanism. We measure the current cylinder before fitting a suitable replacement.

Yes. A dropped handle can indicate a worn or failed gearbox within the multipoint lock mechanism. We inspect the door and explain the suitable repair or replacement options.

Yes. We repair and replace broken friction stays, espag window locks, dropped window hinges, and faulty handles. Most UPVC window repairs can be completed on a single visit with parts carried on the van.

Yes. We work on Axim overhead door closers, BTS80 and Dormakaba floor springs, commercial deadlocks, panic hardware, and most commercial door systems across offices, shops, schools, and public buildings.

Yes. We design and supply master key systems tailored to your requirements - giving staff appropriate access levels while maintaining a single master key for management. We can advise on the right system for your building.

Yes. We treat commercial break-in call-outs as emergencies. We attend promptly to make the premises secure, assess damage, and replace locks and door hardware - insurance-approved locks where required. We also carry boarding materials for immediate securing.

Most door closer faults - leaking closers, slamming doors, incorrect closing speed - can be diagnosed and resolved in under an hour. Where a part needs replacing, we carry common Axim, Dormakaba, and BTS80 components on the van for same-visit repairs where possible.