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Locksmith rates in the UK vary significantly between planned work and emergency call-outs. Out-of-hours emergency locksmith fees are among the highest in the trades. This guide covers 2026 locksmith rates, call-out charges, and regional differences across the UK.
Hourly rate
£60–£120
per hour
Day rate
£350–£600
per day
Call-out
£60–£150
minimum charge
Rates vary considerably across the UK. Here's what you can expect to pay in each region.
* Rates are typical market averages for 2026 based on industry survey data. Individual rates vary by experience, job type, and other factors.
Several factors determine how much a locksmith will charge for a job.
Emergency call-outs — being locked out at night or a broken lock after a break-in — attract fees 50–150% higher than planned lock replacement or key cutting. Always ask for a quote before work begins.
Standard Yale locks are cheaper to open or replace than high-security BS3621 mortice locks or composite door multi-point locking systems. Higher security locks require more skill and time.
Out-of-hours locksmith call-outs (evenings, weekends, bank holidays) are significantly more expensive. Standard hours (8am–6pm weekdays) attract the lowest rates.
A skilled locksmith can often open a lock non-destructively, preserving the lock for reuse. Destructive entry is faster but means the lock must be replaced, adding to the total cost.
London locksmiths charge 40–50% more than those in Northern England or Wales. Remote or rural locations may also attract a travel charge on top of the call-out fee.
Official statistics to check these rates against, with a link to each source.
4,439,000
People self-employed in the UK, June to August 2026 (seasonally adjusted).
55p a mile
HMRC flat rate for cars and vans for the first 10,000 business miles in 2026/27 (45p before 6 April 2026), then 25p.
£90,000
VAT registration threshold: you must register when taxable turnover for the last 12 months goes over this.
Source: GOV.UK, VAT registration
6% and 2%
Class 4 National Insurance for 2026/27: 6% on profits from £12,570 to £50,270, then 2% above that.
Last reviewed: . Figures are the latest official releases at that date; follow each link for the full data and any later update.
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The average locksmith call-out fee in the UK is £60–£150 in 2026. Emergency out-of-hours call-outs can reach £150–£300 in London. The call-out fee typically covers the first 30–60 minutes of work.
Locksmith hourly rates in the UK range from £60–£120/hr in 2026. London locksmiths charge £90–£175/hr. In Northern England and Wales, £55–£112/hr is more typical.
Opening a locked door in the UK typically costs £60–£150 during standard hours in 2026. Out-of-hours emergency entry can cost £100–£250+. If the lock needs replacing, add £30–£150 for the new lock and fitting.
Locksmiths in the UK are not currently subject to statutory regulation, meaning anyone can call themselves a locksmith. Look for membership of trade bodies such as the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) as a mark of quality and vetting.
Always ask for a written quote (including call-out fee and parts) before work begins. Get the total price confirmed before the locksmith starts. Use MLA-approved locksmiths or those with verified reviews. Avoid locksmiths who refuse to give a price upfront.
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