Locksmith security advice FAQ concept image representing home security tips and lock guidance for residents in Hammersmith, Shepherd’s Bush, Notting Hill and Fulham.

Frequently Asked Questions

We know that calling a locksmith often happens when you’re having a bit of a nightmare — whether you’re locked out in the rain or you’ve had a break-in. To help you get things sorted quickly, we’ve put together some of the most common questions we get asked, along with expert advice to help keep your home or business in West London safe and secure.

Are your locksmiths DBS checked?

Yes, all our team members are fully vetted and DBS checked for your peace of mind.

Do you charge a call-out fee?

We don't believe in hidden call-out charges. We give you a clear quote for the work and parts before we start.

Do I need to have any documents for emergency door opening?

For legal and security reasons, it is necessary to present an ID. Other details, such as how many rooms are in the flat or what TV, beds, and similar items are inside, do not prove you have the right to enter the property.

What are your payment terms?

We take cash, cards, bank transfers, and payments over the phone. We will send you a receipt by SMS or email.

How quickly can you get to me?

Since we’re based right here in West London, we usually get to Shepherd's Bush, Hammersmith, or Chelsea within 30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Are you actually open 24/7?

Yes, properly 24/7. Whether it’s 3 AM on a Tuesday or midday on Christmas Day, if you’re locked out, we’ll pick up the phone.

Will you damage my door to get me in?

We always aim for non-destructive entry. We use specialist picking tools to get you back in without a scratch. Drilling is only ever a last resort.

What’s the difference between a Night Latch and a Mortice Lock?

A Night Latch, often called a Yale lock, is usually the one at the top that locks automatically. A Mortice Lock is usually the one lower down that you manually lock with a larger key. You really need both for proper security.

My uPVC door handle is stuck — can you fix it?

Absolutely. This is usually a gearbox or mechanism failure. We carry most common uPVC parts on our van and can usually fix it in one visit.

What brands of locks do you use?

We only use trusted brands such as Yale, Chubb, Union, Era, Apecs, and high-security brands like Ultion, Evva, Banham, and Mul-T-Lock.

I’ve lost my keys, do I need to replace the whole lock?

Usually, we just need to change the cylinder or the lever pack. This gives you a brand-new set of keys and makes the old ones useless, without replacing the entire handle or housing.

Can you help if my key has snapped off in the lock?

Yes, we have specialist extraction tools to remove the broken piece without damaging the lock itself.

Do you work with commercial properties or just houses?

We do both. We handle everything from residential flats to shops, offices, and landlords’ communal areas across West London.

Can you do a security survey of my house?

Definitely. We can walk around your property with you and point out any weak spots or insurance red flags that might need addressing.

How do I know if my locks are insurance-approved?

Look for the BS3621 Kitemark on the side of the lock. If you’re still not sure, take a quick photo and WhatsApp it to us — we’ll let you know for free.

Expert Security Tips for Your Home

Look for the Kitemark: Ensure your mortice locks are BS3621 compliant. If you don’t see the little heart-shaped Kitemark on the faceplate, your home insurance might be invalid in the event of a claim.
Upgrade to Anti-Snap: If you have uPVC or composite doors, standard cylinders are vulnerable. Ask us about 3-Star Anti-Snap locks to stop burglars from snapping your lock in seconds.
The New Home Rule: Always change the locks when you move into a new place in London. You simply don’t know who else has a spare key from the previous owners or tenants.
Don’t Leave Keys in the Door: It sounds obvious, but never leave your keys in the back of the lock on the inside. Thieves can smash a small window or use a wire through the letterbox to turn them.
Letterbox Guards: Consider fitting a letterbox shroud or cage. It prevents fishing attacks where thieves try to grab your house or car keys from the hallway table.
Secure Your Side Gates: A sturdy padlock on a side gate is a major deterrent. Most burglars prefer the privacy of a back garden to work on a door or window.
Mind the Windows: Window locks are just as important as door locks. Make sure they are locked when you’re out, even if you’re just popping to the shops.
Keyed Alike Convenience: Tired of a heavy keychain? We can set up your locks so that one single key opens your front door, back door, and garden gate.
Don’t Advertise Your Holiday: Be careful about what you post on social media. Letting the world know you’re in Spain for two weeks is an open invitation for a break-in.
Gravel Paths: It’s a bit old-school, but gravel driveways or paths are great. Thieves hate them because they can’t approach your house silently.
Check Your Door Frames: A strong lock is useless if the door frame is flimsy. Consider a London Bar or Birmingham Bar to reinforce the frame against forced entry.
Shed & Garage Security: People often keep thousands of pounds worth of bikes and tools in sheds with cheap, rusty padlocks. Don’t overlook these outbuildings.
Light It Up: Motion-activated security lights are a nightmare for burglars. They don’t want to be on stage while trying to bypass a lock.
Maintain Your Locks: If a lock is feeling crunchy or stiff, don’t force it. A quick spray of graphite lubricant can help, or give us a call before it snaps.
Hide Your Car Keys: Modern cars are often stolen via relay theft. Keep your fobs in a Faraday pouch and well away from the front door to stay one step ahead.