Getting locked out or dealing with a broken lock is stressful enough, so the last thing you want is to get scammed by a locksmith. Sadly, these scams are happening more often than you might think, especially when people are in a hurry or panic. That’s why knowing how to protect yourself from locksmith scams is so essential.

You can easily protect yourself by doing some research beforehand. Start by researching local locksmiths, checking their credentials, and saving trusted contacts before an emergency strikes.

In this blog, we’ll share easy tips to spot the warning signs, ask the right questions, and avoid being taken advantage of. Keep on reading. 

What are the Common Locksmith Scams You Should Know About 

Locksmith scams are becoming more common, with reports rising sharply in recent years. Knowing the typical scams can help protect you from falling victim to them. Here are some of the most common locksmith scams to watch out for:

1. Bait and Switch

This is the most widespread scam, where locksmiths advertise very low call-out fees, sometimes as low as £39 or £49, to lure customers. Once on-site, the price skyrockets, often doubling or tripling due to “unexpected” complications or added fees. 

In 2024, the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) received 350 complaints, a 25% increase from the previous year, many of which involved this tactic. Victims often feel trapped and forced to pay inflated bills to regain access to their property.

2. Unnecessary Destructive Entry

Some dishonest locksmiths immediately resort to drilling or breaking locks even when non-destructive entry is possible. This forces customers to pay for costly replacements and repairs. This scam exploits the customer’s urgency and lack of technical knowledge. The MLA warns that many botched jobs result from this practice, with over 300 cases reported annually.

3. Fake or Impersonating Locksmiths

Scammers often copy the names, logos, and websites of legitimate locksmiths to trick customers. They may appear professional online, with fake reviews, making it difficult to verify authenticity. 

This impersonation leads to customers unknowingly hiring unqualified and uninsured individuals, risking poor workmanship and overcharging.

4. Exorbitant Final Bills

After completing the job, rogue locksmiths present bills far higher than the initial quote, sometimes exceeding £1,000 for simple lockouts. 

Hidden fees, such as emergency charges, parts replacement, or unnecessary services, can inflate costs. Victims often receive vague or no explanations for the price hike, leaving them financially and emotionally distressed.

5. Cash-Only Payment Demands

Many scammers insist on cash payments, claiming card machines are broken or unavailable. This prevents customers from disputing charges later and leaves no paper trail. Paying by card or getting a receipt is crucial for protection. This tactic is common among rogue locksmiths operating without licenses or insurance.

How to Protect Yourself from Locksmith Scams

Here’s what you need to know to avoid locksmith scams. Follow these simple steps to protect yourself and ensure you get honest, reliable service every time.

1. Ask the Right Questions Before Hiring a Locksmith

Before hiring a locksmith, asking the right questions is crucial to avoid scams and ensure quality service. Start by confirming if they are licensed, bonded, and insured. 

Licensing shows they meet local standards, bonding protects you if the job isn’t completed properly, and insurance covers any accidental damage. Ask about their experience and specific services offered to ensure they can handle your needs, whether it’s residential, commercial, or automotive work. 

Also, request a clear, written estimate that includes all fees before work begins to avoid surprise charges. 

Finally, check if they accept card payments and provide official ID upon arrival. These questions help you verify legitimacy and protect your property.

Helpful questions to ask:

• Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?
• What is the total cost of the service, including all applicable fees?
• What services do you specialize in?
• Do you accept card payments?
• Can you provide identification on arrival?
• How quickly can you respond in an emergency?

2. Look Beyond the Ads

When you are searching for a locksmith, it’s vital to look beyond the ads. Many scammers use cheap, eye-catching prices like £39 to lure customers, but these offers rarely show the true cost. 

Often, the final bill ends up hundreds of pounds higher after unnecessary work or hidden fees. Additionally, you should be aware of locksmiths who arrive in unmarked vehicles or use toll-free numbers, as these can indicate they are not local or legitimate. 

Genuine locksmiths have branded vans or cars, clear physical addresses, and local phone numbers. Always research the company’s reviews and verify credentials before calling. 

Remember, ads can be bought, but a trustworthy locksmith earns a solid reputation through reliable service and transparency.

3. Research and Preparation Before an Emergency

Preparing ahead is key to handling lock emergencies smoothly. Start by researching and saving contact details of trusted local locksmiths who offer 24/7 emergency services. 

Check their reviews and verify credentials to ensure reliability. Keep spare keys with a trusted friend, family member, or in a secure lockbox to avoid obvious hiding spots like under mats. 

Also, you need to regularly maintain your locks to prevent failures caused by wear, rust, or jamming. Familiarize yourself with the types of locks on your property and assess your security needs. 

Additionally, gather basic tools like screwdrivers and pliers if you plan minor fixes. Having a backup plan and emergency contacts ready will reduce stress and speed up resolution when emergencies happen.

4. Verify Credentials and Legitimacy

Before hiring a locksmith, always verify their credentials to avoid scams. Check if they are licensed, insured, and bonded, as these prove they meet local regulations and protect you in case of damage or theft. 

Look for membership in professional bodies like the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA), which sets high standards. When the locksmith arrives, ask for official identification and a business card.

Remember, legitimate professionals won’t hesitate to provide these. Also, confirm they operate from a physical address, not just a mobile phone or call centre. 

Taking these steps ensures the locksmith is trustworthy, qualified, and accountable, giving you peace of mind during a stressful situation.

5. Pricing and Payment Practices

When calling a locksmith, it’s important to understand typical costs so you’re not caught off guard. During regular hours, expect to pay around £65 to £85 + VAT per hour for most services. 

However, if you need help outside normal times, like nights or weekends, fees often rise, with call-out charges between £50 and £150 and hourly rates reaching £80 to £200 or more. 

Before work begins, you can ask for a clear, written estimate that covers all fees, including parts and travel. 

Also, check if card payments are accepted; avoid locksmiths who demand cash only, since paying by card gives you proof and added protection. Comparing quotes from a few locksmiths helps you find a fair price without sacrificing quality.

6. Use Reviews and Recommendations

Before choosing a locksmith, it’s wise to check reviews and ask for recommendations. Look for verified feedback on trusted platforms like Google, Trustpilot, or local business directories. Pay attention to consistent comments about professionalism, punctuality, and fair pricing. 

Be cautious of locksmiths with only perfect reviews or very few ratings, as these might be fake or unreliable. Asking friends, family, or neighbors for trusted locksmiths can also save you from scams. When contacting a locksmith, don’t hesitate to ask: 

• “Can you provide references or customer testimonials?” 
• Or “Are you a member of any professional locksmith associations?” 

These questions help confirm their credibility and experience, so you can feel confident in your choice.

7. Trust Your Instincts and Report Suspicious Behavior

It’s easy to feel rushed or pressured when locked out or facing an emergency. But take a moment if something doesn’t sit right, listen to that feeling. Maybe the locksmith won’t show ID, or their price suddenly jumps. These are red flags. Trusting your instincts can save you from costly mistakes. Remember, you’re in control, even in stressful situations. 

If you suspect a scam, don’t stay silent and report it to consumer protection or local authorities. Your experience can warn others and help stop scammers in their tracks. At the end of the day, your safety and peace of mind matter most. Don’t settle for anything less than honest, professional service.

In Closing

Staying protected from locksmith scams isn’t difficult if you stay aware and take a few smart precautions. Always check credentials, look up reviews, and make sure you understand the price before you agree to anything. Trust your gut; if something doesn’t feel right, you’re never wrong to pause or walk away. Your safety and security are worth a little extra time.

At Kingdom Locksmith, we believe in honest, transparent service with no hidden fees or pressure. Our experienced team is available 24/7 across the UK, ready to help whenever you need us. If you ever need a trustworthy locksmith or simply want advice about your home’s security, you can always count on Kingdom Locksmith. Your peace of mind is our priority.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How can I verify if a locksmith is truly local?

Check if the locksmith has a physical address listed on their website or business directory. Scammers often use fake or remote addresses and toll-free numbers. A genuine local locksmith usually operates from a fixed location with branded vehicles and local contact numbers, giving you more security and accountability.

Q2: What should I do if a locksmith demands cash only?

Be cautious if a locksmith insists on cash payments and refuses card or digital payments. Paying by card provides a transaction record and protects you if disputes arise. Cash-only demands are a common red flag for scams and unlicensed operators.

Q3: Are online reviews reliable when choosing a locksmith?

Online reviews are helpful but should be read critically. Look for balanced feedback rather than only perfect or extremely negative reviews, as scammers may post fake ones. Also, seek recommendations from friends or family for trustworthy locksmiths.

Q4: What identification should a legitimate locksmith provide on arrival?

A professional locksmith should arrive in a marked vehicle and present official identification matching the company name. They may also ask for your ID to confirm they are servicing the correct property. Refusal to show ID is a strong warning sign of a scam