The short answer
A standard lock change usually costs about £100 to £150 in 2026, according to Checkatrade's May 2026 cost guide. An anti-snap uPVC lock is about £150 and a mortice lock about £140. London prices tend to sit at the upper end because of travel, parking and congestion.
The final price depends on the type of lock, the door and whether the job is planned or urgent. This guide explains each one so you can judge a quote.
Lock change cost in London: typical prices
| Job | Typical UK price (Checkatrade, May 2026) |
|---|---|
| Locksmith hourly rate | About £65 an hour |
| Standard uPVC lock change | £100 to £150 |
| Anti-snap uPVC cylinder | About £150 |
| Mortice lock change | About £140 |
These are third-party averages, not our prices. We give a written price for your door before any work starts.
What affects the price of changing a lock?
- The lock type. A Euro cylinder on a uPVC or composite door is quick to swap. A BS 3621 five-lever mortice lock takes longer to fit, and a full multipoint lock strip costs more again.
- The security rating. A TS007 3-star or Sold Secure Diamond cylinder costs more than a basic one, but resists lock snapping.
- The number of doors. Changing several locks on one visit costs less per lock than separate visits. Locks can often be keyed alike so one key opens them all.
- Urgency and time. A planned lock change in working hours costs less than an urgent visit late at night.
- The door's condition. A dropped door or damaged frame may need adjusting before a new lock will work properly.
Can I just rekey instead of replacing the lock?
Sometimes. Rekeying changes the inside of a lock so old keys no longer work. For Euro cylinders it is usually just as cheap to fit a new cylinder, and you get the chance to upgrade to an anti-snap one. For mortice locks, rekeying can save money if the lock is in good condition.
How to avoid paying too much
- Ask for a written price before any work begins.
- Ask what lock will be fitted and its rating, such as BS 3621 or TS007 3-star.
- Be wary of very low phone prices that rise once the locksmith arrives.
- Check the firm's accreditations and insurance.
Related service: lock change and repair in London.
A few common questions
How much does it cost to change a lock in London?expand_more
Checkatrade's May 2026 cost guide puts a standard lock change at about £100 to £150, with anti-snap uPVC locks around £150 and mortice locks around £140. London jobs often sit at the higher end because of travel and parking. Always ask for a written price before the work starts.
Is it cheaper to rekey or replace a lock?expand_more
For Euro cylinders on uPVC and composite doors, replacing the cylinder usually costs about the same as rekeying and lets you upgrade to anti-snap. For good quality mortice locks, rekeying can be cheaper. A locksmith can look at your locks and tell you which option makes more sense.
Do I need a BS 3621 lock for my insurance?expand_more
Many home insurers ask for a BS 3621 lock, or an equivalent standard, on final exit doors, especially timber ones. Check your policy wording. If your current lock does not meet it, a locksmith can fit a BS 3621 mortice lock or a suitable cylinder so you stay covered.
How long does a lock change take?expand_more
A Euro cylinder change usually takes well under an hour. A mortice lock or a full multipoint lock replacement can take longer, especially if the door needs adjusting. Changing several locks on one visit is quicker and cheaper than booking separate visits for each door.
Why do London locksmith prices vary so much?expand_more
Prices vary with the lock type, its security rating, the number of doors, the time of day and the condition of the door. Travel and parking in central London add to costs. A clear written price before work starts is the best way to compare locksmiths fairly.