Everything You Need To Know About Hiring A Locksmith
Are you looking to hire a locksmith? NLS Security can help.
Our Newcastle locksmiths have been working with domestic, commercial, and industrial clients in the local area for more than 40 years. Over this time, we have helped people to regain access to their property after losing a key, restore security after a break-in, upgrade damaged or broken locks, and get spare keys cut.
It’s fair to say we know everything there is to know about locksmith services. That’s why, in today’s article, we’re going to be talking you through the basics.
What are the different types of locksmith services?
Though we can’t speak for all locksmiths in Newcastle, here at NLS Security, we offer an extensive range of services for clients across the North East of England.
These include:
If you house – or car – share, you might be looking to have an extra key cut so everyone can have their own. Luckily, locksmiths are fully trained on how to duplicate keys using the latest technology. Some locks are more complicated than others – particularly computerised car locks – but no task is too big or too small for the team at NLS Security.
Is there anything more frustrating than being locked out of your car, especially in an area that’s isolated or unsecure? Having the number of an auto locksmith saved in your phone can be a real boon, as they will come out to you and unlock your car door – without causing any damage!
As part of our auto locksmith service, we can cut car keys to ensure you always have a spare to hand.
Want to monitor who has access to your home, office, or school? Locksmiths can supply, fit, and replace access control systems to ensure your doors (and gates) remain closed to unauthorised personnel. Armed with the appropriate tools, they can have the job done in next to no time.
Lockouts can be stressful, to say the least – but even more so if you’re locked out of your home in the middle of the night or you’ve lost your car keys in an unfamiliar area. Fear not, though. You can rely on our Newcastle locksmiths to come to your rescue no matter what time of day it is.
How much do locksmiths charge?
The price you’ll pay to hire a locksmith can vary depending on your location.
Rates tend to be highest in the South of England, meaning locksmiths in Newcastle typically charge less than London locksmiths.
It’s also worth considering the distance that the locksmith will need to travel to get to you, as the further they have to drive, the more they will charge. Often, call-outs to the city centre work out more expensive due to parking restrictions and congestion charges.
With that said, always use a local locksmith. That way, you needn’t worry about paying for the extra mileage, and they will reach you in less time. Not only will you be able to regain access to your property sooner, your locks will be changed faster, and new keys can be cut much quicker.
To find out more about the factors that affect the cost of hiring a locksmith, see our blog ‘ How much do locksmiths charge? ’ And if you’d like to receive a free, no-obligation quote from our locksmiths in Newcastle, get in touch.
Are locksmiths DBS checked?
Any Master Locksmiths Association approved company will ensure that their team is independently vetted, undergoing a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service, formerly Criminal Record Bureau or CRB) check.
As one of the 355 members of the MLA, we can assure you that our Newcastle locksmiths are all DBS checked.
Not only does this prove we are a trustworthy company, but it also allows us to attend jobs at schools and care homes with children or vulnerable adults. Having a DBS check provides peace of mind to the staff, students, parents, and residents.
Is a locksmith police approved?
Unfortunately, there are lots of unscrupulous companies out there these days – many of which claim to be police approved. But don’t be fooled. There is no such thing as a ‘police approved’ or ‘police registered’ locksmith.
Whilst the Metropolitan Police don’t register locksmiths, they do recommend using an MLA approved locksmith. These have a strict vetting, inspection, and qualification procedure in place to ensure all professionals are competent and safe to work in private, commercial, or public environments.
5 great reasons to hire an MLA approved locksmith
1. All MLA licensed locksmiths are criminal record checked.
2. Locksmiths are regularly inspected to ensure their work is of the highest standard.
3. MLA ensure that members are fully qualified to provide locksmith services after passing the MLA exam.
4. Ongoing training is provided to keep locksmiths up to date with the latest industry developments.
5. Peace of mind for you (the customer) that work is completed correctly and safely.
What to look for before hiring a locksmith
There are bound to be several local locksmiths all vying for your attention. The question is – how do you know which one to choose?
Deciding which company to call when your locks break or your keys go missing isn’t easy. However, there are a few things that set the best locksmiths apart from the rest.
Here are some of the key qualities to keep an eye out for:
· Qualifications and experience – though locksmiths aren’t legally required to hold a licence, the most reputable will be approved by the MLA and carry their logo.
They’ll also have an abundance of knowledge and experience in the industry and glowing reviews from customers. We certainly do at NLS Security!
· Customer satisfaction – naturally, everyone wants a reliable locksmith that they can count on to respond quickly when needed. That’s why it’s in your best interests to do some digging before you make up your mind.
Word of mouth is fantastic. Try asking your friends and family if they can recommend a locksmith and see what others say about their experience working with the company – particularly their skills, professionalism, customer service, and value for money.
· A wide range of services – an experienced locksmith will offer so much more than key cutting and lock changing. Some specialise in security upgrades whilst others cover burglary repairs, car key cutting, and everything in between.
Have a look at their website. Find out more about the different services they provide and make sure they can offer all that you need.
· Locality – ask yourself, are they a local firm or part of a national chain? Although a franchise can (and often do) provide a professional service, they may not be as close as you’d like them to be.
Instead, consider searching for locksmiths in your area via the MLA website. At least this way you can trust that they are fully trained, vetted, and offer excellent quality and value for money.
Get in touch with NLS Security
Want to know more about hiring a locksmith in your local area? The team at NLS Security is on hand 24/7 and will be more than happy to help – whether it be to provide further information about the services available, our competitive rates, or rapid response times.
Feel free to give us a call on 0191 238 6000 for expert advice, or email info@nlssecurity.co.uk and our Newcastle locksmiths will be in touch as soon as possible.
