How much does a locksmith cost?

When we think of locksmiths, we think of two types of services: firstly, getting a key cut and secondly, emergency services to get into our car or house. But the truth is there is much more a locksmith can do, and because of this, prices will vary depending on the required job.

While the statistics may not be as accurate in Australia, a New York survey found, the most common day to be locked out of your home or apartment is Saturday afternoon. Perhaps because this is when you’re running errands and in and out of your home and can easily forget? The survey also found 36 per cent more men locked themselves out of their home than women, but we’ll let you debate on that reason.

Thankfully with modern technology, there are many more ways to enter a home than with a single key entry and many more ways to improve your security.

• Rekey an existing lock and change the locks, which can be good if you’ve moved into an existing property
• Install new door handles or deadbolts to existing doors
• They can install new keyless systems
• Upgrade older systems to the latest electronic systems
• Advise you on how to upgrade your security measures
• Install security doors
• Install locks on windows
• Install locks on garages or sheds
• Install CCTV systems
• Install safes

Please note average costs are based on industry averages and that costs will vary depending.

Like any trade services such as a plumber or an electrician, a qualified locksmith will charge a call-out fee and labour and materials. Costs are going to be higher if the call out is after hours or for emergencies. These costs don’t include the call out fee. A general call out fee range will be from $125 depending on regular hours.

Some average costs for a locksmith will be:

• $15-$30 to rekey a basic lock and provide two keys
• Lock repairs from $60 an hour for labour
• Between $30 and $300 to change locks, depending on the type of lock
• Cutting new keys can cost from $4 to $20, depending on the type of key.

After-hours work can be significantly higher:

• $220 is a typical rate for after 9 pm call-outs for emergencies
• $330 and above can be charged after midnight calls

Not all locksmiths are equal. One of the most important ways to ensure you are dealing with a reputable and reliable locksmith is to make sure they are part of the Master Locksmiths Association of Australasia. By becoming a member of this association, locksmiths are trained by the highest standards, provide the very best service and have the most modern products for their customers. It also means as a customer, you can be assured your locksmith is:

• Qualified
• MLAA tested and endorsed
• Part of a registered business
• Security licensed in states where it is required
• Insured

It also means products used will meet all of the Australian standards. Some necessary Australian standards are:

• All locks should meet or exceed Australian standard AS4145.2:1993
• Doors and locks should be fire rated in accordance with Australian standard AS 1905.1:2005
• Locks should be corrosion resistant according to Australian standard AS4145.2:1993

Costs can vary depending on various factors, but at SPL Security, we can give you a more comprehensive quote over the phone for any of your locksmith needs, whether it’s a one-time job, an emergency or an entire project.

Contact us today so we can safeguard the security of your property.