The short answer
The most common locksmith scam is a low price on the phone that becomes a much higher bill once the locksmith is at your door. Other warning signs are drilling a lock straight away, refusing to give a written price, and no real company name or address. Asking a few simple questions before anyone sets off will protect you from most of these.
Warning signs of a rogue locksmith
| Warning sign | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Very low "from" price on the phone | Often rises sharply on arrival with added "call-out" or "night" fees |
| Will not give a full price before arrival | Leaves you with no room to refuse once they are there |
| Drills the lock straight away | Most lockouts can be opened without damage; drilling adds the cost of a new lock |
| No company name, address or landline | Hard to complain or get work put right |
| Pushes expensive "high security" locks | You may pay far more than the job needs |
| Cash only, no receipt | No record of what was done or paid |
Questions to ask before they set off
- What is the total price, including call-out, labour and any parts?
- Is there an extra charge for evenings or weekends?
- Will you try non-destructive entry first?
- What is your company name, and can you give me a written receipt?
- Do you hold public liability insurance?
What does a fair price look like?
Checkatrade's May 2026 cost guide puts the average UK locksmith rate at about £65 an hour and a standard lock change at £100 to £150. London prices are higher, but a bill several times these figures for a simple lockout is a red flag.
What to do if you have been overcharged
- Ask for an itemised invoice and keep it.
- Pay by card where possible, as it gives more protection.
- Contact Citizens Advice for help with the complaint.
- Report it to Trading Standards through Citizens Advice.
Related service: emergency locksmith in London. Further reading: Citizens Advice consumer help.
A few common questions
How do I know if a locksmith is legitimate?expand_more
A legitimate locksmith gives a full price before setting off, has a real company name and contact details, carries insurance, tries non-destructive entry first and provides a written receipt. Be wary of very low phone quotes, cash-only payment and anyone who drills a lock without explaining why.
Why did the locksmith charge more than the phone quote?expand_more
Some rogue firms quote a low starting price, then add call-out, night or parts fees on arrival. Always ask for the total price including every charge before they set off. If the price changes on the doorstep without a clear reason, you can refuse the work.
Should a locksmith drill my lock?expand_more
Not usually as a first step. Most lockouts can be opened without damage using non-destructive entry. Some high-security locks need drilling, but a good locksmith will explain why and tell you the cost of a replacement lock before starting.
What can I do if a locksmith overcharged me?expand_more
Ask for an itemised invoice and keep all records. Paying by card gives extra protection. Contact Citizens Advice, which can help you complain and pass the case to Trading Standards. Leave an honest review so other people can make an informed choice.
What is a fair price for a locksmith in London?expand_more
Checkatrade's May 2026 cost guide puts the average UK locksmith rate at about £65 an hour, and a standard lock change at about £100 to £150. London prices are often higher, especially at night, but a bill many times these figures for a simple lockout is a warning sign.