Don't Get Ripped Off by a Rogue Locksmith
Learn to spot the warning signs and find trustworthy locksmiths who won't take advantage when you're vulnerable.
When you're locked out of your home or dealing with a security emergency, you're in a vulnerable position. Unfortunately, some people see this as an opportunity to take advantage. Understanding how locksmith scams work can help you protect yourself and find a trustworthy professional when you need one.
The Scale of the Problem
Locksmith scams are a genuine issue across the UK. Trading Standards and consumer groups regularly receive complaints about rogue locksmiths who overcharge, damage property, and do unnecessary work. Being informed is your best protection.
Common Locksmith Scams to Watch For
The Bait and Switch Price
A company advertises a low call-out fee (sometimes as low as £30-50) but when the locksmith arrives, the price suddenly jumps to £200, £300, or more. They'll claim your lock is 'special' or 'complex' and requires extra work.
How to protect yourself: Ask for a complete quote before any work begins. A legitimate locksmith will give you a clear price after assessing the job, not spring surprises on you.
Unnecessary Lock Drilling
Some rogue locksmiths will immediately drill your lock rather than use proper opening techniques. This forces you to pay for a new lock, inflating the bill significantly.
How to protect yourself: A skilled locksmith can open most domestic locks without damage using professional techniques. MLA members are trained in non-destructive entry methods.
Fake Local Addresses
Some companies advertise a 'local' Gloucester address but operate from a call centre elsewhere. When you call, they dispatch the nearest available person — who may be untrained or uninsured.
How to protect yourself: Be wary of addresses that don't exist or businesses with no genuine local presence. MLA members can be verified on the MLA website.
Pressure Tactics
A rogue locksmith may try to pressure you into additional work: "Your locks are all unsafe, you need them all replaced now." They create urgency to prevent you from thinking clearly or getting a second opinion.
How to protect yourself: Unless there's been a break-in, you rarely need work done immediately. A trustworthy locksmith will give you time to consider your options.
Cash Only, No Receipt
Demanding cash payment with no receipt is a major red flag. It suggests the operator isn't a legitimate business and makes it nearly impossible to get recourse if something goes wrong.
How to protect yourself: Legitimate locksmiths will provide invoices and receipts. Many accept card payments. Always get documentation.
Red Flags: Warning Signs of a Rogue Locksmith
When a locksmith arrives, watch for these warning signs. If you notice several of these behaviours, consider asking them to leave — even if it means waiting longer for a legitimate professional.
Arrives in an Unmarked Vehicle
Legitimate locksmiths typically have branded vans with company details visible.
No ID or Refuses to Show It
Professional locksmiths carry identification. MLA members have membership cards.
Won't Give a Quote First
They should assess the job and quote before starting — not after they've drilled your lock.
Immediately Reaches for a Drill
Skilled locksmiths try non-destructive methods first. Drilling should be a last resort.
Price Jumps Dramatically
If the quoted price suddenly increases after arrival, that's a classic bait-and-switch.
Demands Cash Only
Refusing card payments suggests they're avoiding a paper trail. Legitimate businesses take cards.
Won't Provide a Receipt
No invoice or receipt means no proof of what was agreed or paid.
Doesn't Ask for ID
A legitimate locksmith will verify you have the right to access the property.
Pressures You Into Extra Work
"All your locks need replacing immediately" is often a scare tactic to inflate the bill.
Gets Aggressive or Threatening
If they become hostile when questioned, that's a major red flag. Consider calling the police.
Vague About Their Company
Can't name their employer or give a business address? They may be a subcontractor for a call centre.
Lack of Proper Tools
A professional arrives equipped. Limited tools often means limited skills.
Remember: You Can Say No
Even if you've called a locksmith, you're not obligated to use them. If warning signs appear, you have every right to ask them to leave and call someone else. Yes, it's inconvenient, but it's better than being overcharged or having your lock unnecessarily destroyed. A legitimate locksmith will understand your caution.
How to Find a Trustworthy Locksmith
Look for MLA Certification
The Master Locksmiths Association is the UK's leading trade body. MLA members are vetted, background checked, and agree to professional standards. You can verify membership on the MLA website.
Get a Quote Before Work Begins
A reputable locksmith will assess the job and give you a quote before starting. They should explain what work is needed and why. Be suspicious of anyone who starts work without discussing costs.
Check for Identification
When the locksmith arrives, ask to see identification. MLA members carry ID cards. A legitimate professional won't mind showing credentials.
Be Prepared in Advance
If possible, don't wait until you're locked out to find a locksmith. Research options in advance and save the number of a vetted locksmith in your phone.
Use Recommendation Services
Services that vet locksmiths before recommending them (like ours) can help you avoid the risks of searching online during an emergency.
What Is the Master Locksmiths Association?
The Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) is the UK's leading trade body for the locksmith industry. MLA members undergo rigorous vetting, including criminal record checks and skill assessments. When you choose an MLA-certified locksmith, you can be confident you're dealing with a qualified, trustworthy professional.
Learn more about our vetting processWhat to Do If You've Been Scammed
If you believe you've been a victim of a locksmith scam, there are steps you can take:
1. Gather Evidence
Keep any receipts, business cards, or communication. Note the locksmith's name, vehicle registration, and what was said.
2. Report to Trading Standards
Contact Gloucestershire Trading Standards or report through the Citizens Advice consumer helpline (0808 223 1133).
3. Report to the MLA
If the locksmith claimed to be MLA certified, report them to the MLA. If they're not actually a member, the MLA will want to know about the false claim.
4. Leave Honest Reviews
Warn others by leaving factual reviews on relevant platforms. Stick to what actually happened.
5. Contact Your Bank
If you paid by card and believe you were defrauded, contact your bank. You may be able to dispute the charge.
Find a Locksmith You Can Trust
Don't take chances. Let us connect you with a vetted, MLA-certified locksmith in Gloucester.