Why You Should Never Use a Locksmith Who Won't Give a Price on the Phone
Rogue locksmith scams cost UK homeowners millions every year. Here's exactly what to look for — and how to avoid being ripped off when you're locked out.
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07735 336175The Rogue Locksmith Problem
According to Which? and the Trading Standards Institute, rogue locksmiths cost UK consumers an estimated £40 million per year. The pattern is always the same:
The person is charged for parts at massively inflated prices, labour per 15 minutes, and sometimes for a replacement lock they did not need.
Why They Drill When They Don't Need To
Drilling a lock is the fastest technique. It is also the most profitable — because it means you need a new lock, which the rogue locksmith supplies and installs at a huge markup.
A skilled locksmith can open the majority of standard residential locks without drilling. The technique is called non-destructive entry. It takes longer to learn but results in a better outcome for the customer.
When a locksmith drills without trying non-destructive entry first, it is almost always about profit.
The Warning Signs
No firm price on the phone. A professional locksmith can quote you a firm price for a standard job. "It depends on the lock" is a red flag — it always depends on the lock, but a skilled locksmith can tell you the price range for your lock type.
No local landline or company name. Many rogue locksmiths advertise with made-up local names and mobile numbers. They are not based locally — they drive to wherever calls come from.
Huge gap between phone quote and final bill. If they quoted £45 and the final bill is £200, walk away and report them to Trading Standards.
Pressure to make a decision quickly. No legitimate locksmith pressures you to decide on the spot.
They go straight to drilling. Always ask: "Can you try non-destructive entry first?" Any competent locksmith will.
What a Professional Locksmith Does
I give you a firm price on the phone. I tell you exactly how long I'll be. I try non-destructive entry before anything else. If I cannot open the lock without drilling, I tell you before I drill and quote the replacement lock cost separately.
You never pay more than the price we agreed. No exceptions.
How to Find a Legitimate Locksmith
For Coventry and Warwickshire, you can call me directly on 07735 336175. I'll give you a firm price on the phone, every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I report a rogue locksmith?
Yes — report to Trading Standards via the Citizens Advice consumer helpline (0808 223 1133). If you were overcharged significantly, you may also have a claim through your bank via chargeback if you paid by card.
Is the cheapest locksmith always the worst?
Not necessarily — an independent local locksmith without VAT genuinely can charge less than a national company while still being professional. The danger is locksmiths who quote low and add on extras after arriving. The key is a firm price commitment before they come out.
Do I need to use an MLA locksmith?
Not necessarily — MLA membership is a good indicator of professionalism and vetting, but many excellent local locksmiths are not MLA members. The important thing is that they give you firm prices, try non-destructive entry, and are transparent about costs.
About the Author
I'm Ross, a local independent locksmith covering Coventry, Nuneaton, Rugby, Leamington Spa, Warwick, and all surrounding areas. I've been working as a locksmith in the Coventry area for years and I've seen every type of lock problem there is. If you need a locksmith, call me on 07735 336175 — I'm available 24/7.