Key Cutting Guide Scope of Works Identify key type & blank (cylinder, mortice, dimple, security card). Cut duplicate on calibrated machine or by code, remov...
Standard key cutting in the UK typically costs £3–£12 per key for routine domestic and office keys; specialist or restricted keys (high-security, dimple, vehicle transponder) run £20–£200. Most cobblers (Timpsons), Asda, Tesco, and dedicated locksmith shops cut on-the-spot in 2-5 minutes for standard keys.
The price-driver is restriction level. Mass-market key blanks (Yale, Era, ABUS, generic 6-pin) are cheap and widely available; "patented" or "restricted" key systems (Mul-T-Lock, Avocet, Banham) are intentionally limited to authorised dealers and cost considerably more.
Typical UK key cutting costs
| Key type | Typical price |
|---|---|
| Standard Yale-style nightlatch | £3–£8 |
| 5-lever mortice lock key | £5–£15 |
| Euro cylinder key (basic) | £4–£10 |
| Dimple key (high-security) | £12–£30 |
| Restricted / patented key (Mul-T-Lock, Banham) | £20–£60 |
| Vehicle key (basic, no transponder) | £10–£25 |
| Vehicle key (transponder + remote) | £60–£200 |
| Bunch of keys cut at once (3+) | 10-20% discount |
Where to get keys cut
- Timpson / Mr Minit / Snappy Snaps — cobblers and stationers in most UK high streets. Standard domestic keys cut in 2-5 minutes. Cheap, fast, no specialist equipment.
- Asda / Tesco / Sainsbury's — many supermarkets have key kiosks. Convenient if shopping anyway.
- Specialist locksmiths — necessary for restricted, high-security, or vehicle keys. Slower service but full coverage of key types.
- Manufacturer / dealer — Banham, Mul-T-Lock, ASSA ABLOY have direct supply for their patented systems. Often need original "owner card" issued at first lock fitting.
Why some keys cost more
- Patented blanks — manufacturer restricts blank distribution to authorised dealers. Typical for Mul-T-Lock, Avocet ABS, Yale Platinum, Banham. Stops random cobblers cutting copies.
- Dimple keys — different cutting machine and skill needed. Common on European-style cylinders.
- Sidewinder / laser-cut — many automotive keys (BMW, Mercedes, premium VAG) need specialist machines.
- Transponder keys — chip programming requires diagnostic equipment matched to the vehicle. Added time and licensed software.
Restricted key systems
For homes wanting better-than-standard security, restricted key systems include:
- Banham (UK heritage brand) — high-security, restricted to Banham-authorised dealers.
- Mul-T-Lock Interactive+ — Israeli-made high-security system, popular in commercial.
- Avocet ABS — UK-made anti-snap UPVC cylinder with restricted keys.
- Yale Platinum 3-Star — patented Yale system.
To get spare keys, you typically present an "owner card" issued when the lock was first installed — proving you're the authorised key holder.
Things people often miss
- Cut from key vs from lock — copying an existing key is the cheap, fast service. If you've lost all keys, the locksmith may need to read the lock or pinpoint the cuts another way — much slower and more expensive.
- Worn keys cut to wrong specs — old, worn keys cut from rather than from the original spec produce keys that work in the lock but wear it faster. For accuracy, cut from a fresh master or from the lock itself.
- Restricted key documentation — proper key-management for restricted systems means keeping the owner card and noting who has each numbered key. Simple spreadsheet works.
- Vehicle key encoding — modern car keys need both physical cutting AND electronic programming. Cobblers can cut the metal but not always programme. Specialist auto-locksmiths or main dealers programme.
- Lifetime guarantees — Timpsons offers free re-cutting if a key fails to work, which is genuinely useful for older locks.
- "Won't turn" not always a key issue — sometimes the lock is the problem, not the key. Try the original key in the lock; if it won't turn either, the cylinder may need attention.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to cut a key?
£3-£12 for standard domestic keys at high-street cobblers. £20-£60 for restricted / patented home security keys. £60-£200 for vehicle transponder keys at auto-locksmiths or dealerships.
Can I get any key cut?
Standard mass-market keys (Yale, Era, ABUS): yes, anywhere. Restricted keys (Banham, Mul-T-Lock): only at authorised dealers with proof of ownership. Vehicle transponder keys: dealer or auto-locksmith with appropriate diagnostic kit.
Can a locksmith cut a key from a lock without an existing key?
Yes — locksmiths can read locks ("decode" them) and cut a working key. More expensive (typically £80-£200) than copying from an existing key (£3-£12). Required for situations where all keys are lost.
Why won't my newly cut key work?
Three common causes: original was worn (the new copy is even worse), the lock itself has worn (try a fresh key from the original), or the cutter made a mistake. Most reputable cutters re-do for free if you bring the key back.
How do I get keys cut for restricted Banham locks?
Banham-authorised dealer with proof of ownership (owner card or ID matching the registered owner). Listed on Banham's website. Expect £25-£60 per key, 1-2 weeks lead time if blank not held in stock locally.
Can I cut my own car key?
The metal blade can be cut to match — fairly straightforward. The transponder chip in the head must be programmed to the vehicle, which requires specific diagnostic kit. Most auto-locksmiths and dealers offer both services together.
Want a local pro to handle this? For standard keys, any high-street cobbler. For restricted-key systems or vehicle keys, a specialist locksmith or authorised dealer. The MLA (Master Locksmiths Association) directory lists vetted specialists by area.
This guide was written with AI assistance and is intended for general information only. Prices are estimates based on UK averages and may vary by region. Always get at least three quotes and consult a qualified professional before starting any work.
