Call an emergency locksmith.

Emergency locksmith callouts in the UK typically cost £90–£250 for the visit, plus parts and any extra work needed. Out-of-hours rates (evenings, weekends, bank holidays) are usually 30-50% above weekday daytime rates. Most genuine emergencies — lockouts, broken keys, post break-in re-secure — are reachable within 30-60 minutes by a local locksmith.

Typical UK lockout response: locksmith arrives, picks the lock without damage, charges callout + fix. Non-destructive entry is the goal; a good locksmith doesn't drill or break the lock unless absolutely necessary.

Typical UK emergency rates

Common emergency scenarios

• Locked out — most common, particularly Friday/Saturday evenings. Typical callout £80-£150 daytime, £120-£250 evenings.
• Key broken in lock — broken keys can sometimes be extracted with specialist tools; sometimes the cylinder must be drilled out. £60-£200.
• Post break-in secure — secure the property after attempted or successful break-in, replace damaged locks. £200-£700.
• Lost keys — re-key whole house if security concern. £200-£500.
• Tenancy turnover — emergency lock change between tenants where keys are missing. £100-£300.
• Frozen / jammed locks — winter mornings. Usually fixable on-the-spot for £60-£120.

Choosing a reputable emergency locksmith

Emergency locksmith scams are unfortunately common. Avoid:

• Adverts with very low headline rates that escalate massively on arrival.
• Non-local operators using local-sounding numbers but dispatching from far away.
• Anyone unwilling to provide written quote before starting work.
• Pressure to drill or destroy locks when non-destructive entry is feasible.

Reputable indicators:

• Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) certification — vetted and audited members.
• Local landline number (not just mobile or 0800).
• Marked van and uniform.
• Written quote on arrival before work starts.
• Identifiable trade — established locksmiths usually have shopfronts, social media, or trade references.

Things people often miss

• Home insurance lockout cover — many UK home insurance policies include lockout cover up to £150-£300 per incident. Check policy before paying out of pocket.
• Wait time vs cost — quote shopping during a lockout often pays back. 5-10 minutes finding a properly local locksmith vs £100+ in callout fees from a bait-and-switch national operator.
• Non-destructive entry preferred — a competent locksmith picks 80%+ of standard UK locks without damage. Drilling should be a last resort, not the first attempt.
• Identification at the door — confirm the locksmith's identity before letting them work; ask for ID and check the trading name matches.
• After break-in upgrades — emergency response typically restores baseline security; consider additional upgrades (anti-snap cylinders, sash jammers, alarms) once dust settles.
• Pet lockouts — if pets are inside and you're locked out, mention urgency upfront. Most locksmiths prioritise these.

Frequently asked questions

Want a local pro to handle this? An MLA-certified local locksmith with a clear pricing structure is the right call. Save their number now while everything's working — locksmith decisions made calmly are much better than under pressure during a lockout.