One of the most popular queries about locksmiths in search engine results involves how much a locksmith should cost to hire. It’s an understandable question, and one that deserves a proper answer.
So, we thought we’d do just that, giving you some insight into the various elements you need to think about before hiring someone. At Pixlocks, you can be sure you’ll always receive a competitive price for any lock-related job that needs doing, from emergencies to upgrades. Let’s look at some of the cost-related issues you’ll need to consider.
Costs can depend on location
It’s not a huge surprise to learn that hiring a locksmith in Yorkshire is likely to be significantly cheaper than hiring one in London. Geography factors into many different services. This is no different. The important thing is to get a competitive price for your area. Combine this with a good track record and good reviews and you’re halfway there.
What job do you need to get done?
Locksmiths can help with everything from stuck doors that need readjusting, to broken locks, a key that has broken off inside a lock, and upgrading to a more secure lock. All these tasks take different lengths of time. Furthermore, there are different options for replacement locks and items – and this alone can alter the final price you would pay.
Consider the hourly rate
Locksmiths typically charge an hourly rate for the work they perform. An experienced locksmith (much like the ones at Pixlocks) will know ahead of starting a job roughly how long it is likely to take to complete. This is another area where experience helps. You may pay slightly more for a knowledgeable locksmith with a greater track record, but you’ll receive an outstanding service in return.
The price for parts is also important
Most jobs you need to get done are likely to be comprised of two things – the labour and the parts. We’ve covered labour already, but the parts can cover anything from a small replacement part to a whole new lock. For example, a broken lock may not need to be replaced if spare parts are available. Similarly, if you’ve just moved into a new property, you’ll want to get all the locks changed to make sure no one else has a key to get in.
Get a quote ahead of agreeing to any work being done
This means there are no surprises. The quote should also be provided in writing, so you’ve got it in black and white. It should include the cost of labour and parts, as we already mentioned.
If you have any questions about your quote, don’t be afraid to ask. We might do this every day, but we know this could be the first time you’ve ever had cause to hire a locksmith. At least you now know more about costs and how much your job might cost to complete. At Pixlocks, we’ll always give you an honest price you can trust.
