Reasons to Hire a Locksmith

A locksmith is a person or company that works with locks and keys.  They are specially trained to replace locks, duplicate keys, or enter a building without damaging the door.

Loss

The most common cause to call a locksmith is that you have lost the keys to your house or office. 

Stolen

If you have misplaced your keys in a public area like a restaurant or even at work, there is a good chance that someone else will try to use them.  Theft is also a very real occurrence.  In either case, you need a professional locksmith.  He or she will either re-key existing locks or install new locks and give you those keys.  Simply re-cutting existing keys is not a safe idea.

New Home

When you buy a new home, you have lots of things to think about:  movers, logistics, furniture placement.  However, one of the first things you should do is have the locks re-keyed or replaced.  The previous owners could have lent their key to someone and you now have a potential intruder.  Teenagers are notorious for losing keys. 

If your home is a new build, you still should consider replacing or re-keying.  The contractor or builder has a master key but there have been a number of subcontractors in and out of the house after it was secured like electricians, plumbers, flooring, etc. 

Broken Keys

Keys are used a lot and they are only made of metal.  At some point, it is possible that the key will break, usually while it is in the lock.  The only way to solve this is with a locksmith, who will come to the building to remove the damaged part of the key.  At that point you can have another key made, have the lock re-keyed or replace the lock entirely.

Apartment

When you move into an apartment remember that this space was previously occupied.  That can also mean subletting, roommates, and various forms of romantic interests.  When signing the papers, speak with the manager about having a new key or lock installed.  It is for your own safety as well as that of the owner of the apartment building.

Locks

As a mechanical device, locks can also malfunction.  They get old and won’t work properly.  You could also have been the victim of a break-in or attempted entry. 

Combinations

Electronic entry systems make it easier than dealing with keys.  However, with so many passwords and access codes, it is easy to get confused.  Writing them down and “hiding” them or sharing the information with someone else, poses security issues.  Contact a locksmith to help re-code if necessary.

Home Security

If you are installing home security alarms or devices, including an upgrade to your locks.  Keyless entries come in a variety of options and your locksmith can help you explore the best possibilities.

When looking for a locksmith in London, choose one that is local, is available for emergency services, is certified, and maintains appropriate insurance.  Check reviews on reputable sites if you have time.