For many, locksmithing is one of those professions shrouded in mystery. Most of us don’t ever need a locksmith, while some might need one in a hurry at 2 in the wee hours of the morning when they’re locked out in their pyjamas. Regardless, most folks only encounter a locksmith a handful of times in their lives. That leaves plenty of room for misunderstandings, assumptions, and half-truths.
This guide was put together by an experienced emergency locksmith Bradford who’ve heard every myth in the book. Let’s unravel the 5 biggest myths about locksmiths and get to the truth behind the trade.
Myth 1: Picking a Lock is Easy!
Film-makers love to portray lock picking as an easy task. You only stick a hairpin in the keyhole, wiggle it around, and voila! The door opens! Unfortunately, real-world lock-picking is a bit more “fiddly.”
Picking locks requires specific tools and technical knowledge. It also demands countless hours of practice. That’s why professional locksmiths spend an extensive hands-on training to understand how different lock mechanisms work. It’s the only way they can open (or pick) locks without damaging them.
While simple locks are easy to bypass, more modern versions have anti-pick features. Ordinary lock picking won’t cut it. Professional locksmiths must drill the lock with expert precision and the correct tools to open the lock.
So, if you ever find yourself locked out in your pyjamas, don’t listen to the advice of YouTubers. Doing so might only damage your lock, making professional locksmith entry more challenging and costly. Call a pro locksmith!
Myth 2: All Locksmiths Charge the Same Price
Locksmithing prices aren’t a one-size-fits-all thing. Like everything else, they vary across:
- Service type (is it for an emergency locked out situation, a lock change or replacement, or home safe installation?)
- Time of day (callouts in the wee hours of the morning may cost more)
- Lock type involved
- Location
- Need for new hardware (including type and quantity)
For example, getting back into the safety of your home after getting locked out is often quicker and more affordable than replacing all the door and window locks in a newly bought property.
Emergency locksmithing services during bank holidays and “unsociable” hours (early mornings, weekends, and late nights) usually command a higher price.
Locksmithing quotes can feel surprising because locksmith services don’t have a “mental price list,” unlike other tradespeople (like electricians or plumbers).
Reputable locksmiths are always transparent in their pricing. Hence, you will want to get multiple quotes and ask for a breakdown of charges, including labour, call-out fees, and parts.
Myth 3: All Locksmiths are Qualified
Would you be surprised to know that the UK doesn’t “regulate” the locksmithing profession? Yes, virtually anyone can call themselves a locksmith because there aren’t any legally mandated formal qualifications (like certification or training).
However, professional locksmiths always choose to strengthen their credibility by pursuing accreditations and industry-recognised qualifications.
For example, trustworthy locksmiths have verifiable City & Guilds certifications. Some also have a Level 4 Certificate in General Locksmithing Skills, issued by the Awarding Body of the Built Environment. A few training centres also offer a Level 3 Locksmith Diploma.
These locksmith-driven qualifications signal the locksmith’s adherence to standards of locksmithing skills, integrity, and professionalism.
Experience counts too. Locksmiths with at least a decade of hands-on experience should be more skilled than someone who recently completed a course.
Ideally, you will want to look for locksmiths with verifiable credentials and are members of a recognised organisation. After all, you don’t want your home security to chance.
Myth 4: Every Locksmith Offers the Same Services
While it’s true that locksmiths are especially skilled at helping with residential locks, some specialise in areas that demands additional training. They also require specialised tools and additional insurance.
A good example is automotive locksmithing. These locksmiths are perfect for addressing lock and lock-related issues in vehicles, like key fob reprogramming. They use advanced diagnostic tools and leverage their knowledge of automotive electronic key systems to help car owners.
Another example is 24/7/365 emergency locksmithing services, allowing locksmiths to respond to lock-related issues round-the-clock. Access control systems for businesses and safe cracking are also specialised areas.
It’s always sound advice to check a locksmith’s service list before calling. If you need help with your safe, car, or a locked-out emergency, make sure your locksmith actually covers those services.
Myth 5: Locksmiths are Only for Emergencies
Most folks associate locksmiths with emergencies (getting locked out or losing your keys). Maybe even a lock change after a break-in. although these scenarios are common, they aren’t the only ones that professional locksmiths can tend to.
For instance, locksmiths can change the locks to your new home before moving in or a day after your move. Guess who only has the correct keys? YOU!
Another instance you’ll need a locksmith is when you want to ditch your out-dated locks with smarter versions or even those with anti-snap features.
If you’re a landlord, you’ll also need a locksmith to change the locks every time a tenant leaves (before a new one arrives).
Worried about your old front door lock? A professional locksmith can assess your security to spot potential loopholes.
The point is to never wait for a crisis before you start thinking about your locks. Preventative security is often easier and more affordable. More importantly, it’s far less stressful than dealing with the aftermath of a break-in.
Final Thoughts: The Truth about Locksmithing – More than Just Keys and Doors
Locksmithing is an evolving trade that blends mechanical expertise, security knowledge, and problem-solving. Locksmiths must continue pushing themselves because locks are becoming smarter and more sophisticated.
Understanding the truth behind these myths helps you appreciate the work that locksmiths do. It also ensures you’re better prepared when the need arises.