5 Reasons Why You Should Hire A Professional Locksmith

smslocksmiths • April 9, 2025

Many situations warrant calling a professional locksmith to resolve the problem. From accidentally locking yourself out of your home to wanting to secure all the entryways in your newly built property, there are many reasons you could find yourself in need of such expertise. Before we delve into the top reasons these professionals and their services are worth paying for, let us define who and what they do. 


What is a professional locksmith? 

Professional locksmiths are skilled tradesmen that install, adjust, unlock, repair, and replace locks and other security devices on residential, commercial, and industrial properties. They also provide key duplication, unlocking, and changing of lock combination services. 


Their services can also extend to window and door installations and repairs that are typically done in conjunction with lock installs, repairs, and replacements. Some professional locksmith engineers are also trained in auto locksmith services and the installation, servicing and repair of access control systems. 


There is a wide range of services that can be offered by a locksmith company, including emergency services that enable clients to be served outside of normal working hours and when emergency situations like break-ins occur. 


While no governing or licensing body oversees the sector, you can find a certified locksmith that is a member of the Master Locksmith Association. This reputable association provides certifications and a professional standard of conduct by which members of the industry can abide. Here are 5 reasons why you should hire a professional locksmith. 


1. Non-destructive services 

A common mistake that many people make when faced with a lock that will not open or is faulty is tampering with it. Whatever the kind of door lock, chances are if you attempt to correct the situation without understanding its mechanism, you will cause more damage. 


A professional locksmith has better knowledge and experience when it comes to fixing a problem lock and is more likely to do so without causing further damage. Even when it comes to gaining access by bypassing a door lock, they often have specialist knowledge and all the correct tools that let them open the lock without damaging it. 


This allows the client to continue using the lock and only have to pay for the locksmith’s labour charges. If you damage the lock further, you may need to pay for a replacement. 


2. Enhance security 

Professional locksmiths have excellent knowledge when it comes to criminal activity like burglaries and understand weak points where such intruders gain access to properties. They can use their knowledge to recommend security features you can use to enhance safety. From the best locking system that cannot be picked or slipped to advice on deterring theft, they offer a comprehensive professional service you can tap into to ensure your property is well protected. 


In the event of an emergency, like a break-in, they can also step in to secure the property after the police are done. Boarding up and repairing locks is done to secure the property as you await insurance or other sources of funding to make long term repairs. 


3. 24/7 Availability 

Many situations which may call for locksmith services occur at inopportune moments. It could happen in the dead of the night or on the weekend. Not to mention burglaries that are often discovered in the early morning hours or even at night. These are times when most businesses have closed, but you are still sure to find a locksmith available. 


Most emergency locksmiths are available whenever disaster strikes. Though the cost is higher than when you call for them during normal hours, what matters is you will get help whenever you need it. If you call local locksmiths, the response time can be fairly quick, often within 30 to 60 minutes. 


4. Communication and reassurance 

Talking to a locksmith directly reassures people that they will not only be attended to quickly but that there is someone that understands their problem. Many locksmith-related situations are an emergency or at least a source of anxiety. 


Locksmith companies that have several active communication channels and professionals that can discuss the problem with clients give the impression that they are compassionate and eager to help. They can also more reliably communicate to clients when they can expect to arrive at their location. 


5. Reliability 

Dealing with a professional locksmith guarantees reliable service. Those certified and in good standing with the MLA are considered to be appropriately trained professionals when it comes to delivering locksmith services. Ensure that the certified locksmiths you engage are also suitably insured and DBS checked. 



When you hire a professional and trained locksmith, it will give you peace of mind, especially when it comes to granting them access to your home and placing the safety of your family and property in their hands. 

Smart Locks vs Traditional Locks: What’s Right for Your Home in Putney?

By Locksmiths • October 13, 2025
Introduction With technology advancing, you might be considering replacing your traditional locks with a smart or electronic locking system. But is that the right move for your Putney home? Here’s a breakdown of pros, cons, and what to look for. Traditional Locks: Still Reliable Time-tested mechanical systems no battery or electronics to fail Straightforward to repair or rekey Wide compatibility with UK standard locks (euro cylinder, mortice) Lower up-front cost Smart / Electronic Locks: Modern Convenience Remote access: lock/unlock via app or Bluetooth Temporary access codes or keycards (useful for visitors, workers) Audit trails: check who locked/unlocked and when Integration possibility with home automation / alarms Potential Downsides of Smart Locks Require power - battery changes or wiring More parts that may fail (electronics, motors) Compatibility: not all doors/frames will suit smart lock retrofits Cost: higher initial investment What to Consider for Your Home Usage : Are you in often, or out most of the time? Smart locks shine if you plan to use remote functions. Door type : UPVC or multipoint doors require particular coordination; some models may not fit. Security standard : Make sure the smart lock is certified (e.g. to British Standards) and offers forced-entry resistance. Backup method : Always maintain a mechanical backup (key override) in case electronics fail. Warranty & support : Pick brands with good support and ensure the locksmith can service them locally. Conclusion Smart locks can bring convenience and modern control, but they don't necessarily replace the need for a solid mechanical lock foundation. In many cases, a hybrid solution (mechanical + smart) works best. At SMS Putney Locksmith, we install and service both and we can advise what’s right for your door, budget, and security needs. 

How to Prepare for a Locksmith Visit: What You Should Do Before They Arrive

By Locksmiths • October 13, 2025
Introduction Having a locksmith come to your home can feel a little stressful, especially if it's in an emergency. But if you take just a few simple steps before they arrive, you can help them work more quickly and effectively and maybe reduce the cost in time and labour. 1. Identify the problem clearly Before you call, try to figure out exactly what’s wrong: is the key broken in the lock? Has the door warped? Did someone force entry? Observations like “key turns but won’t unlock” or “door alignment shifted after a move” help the locksmith arrive prepared. 2. Provide property details & photos if possible Send a photo or tell them the door type (UPVC, wooden, metal), lock brand or style (euro cylinder, mortice, multipoint), and whether there are other locks on that door (deadbolt, chain). This helps the locksmith bring the correct parts. 3. Clear access Make sure the path to the door is clear. Move cars or bins that could block access. Unlock gates if possible. The easier it is to get to the door, the quicker the work. 4. Have proof of address or identity ready A locksmith should verify you are the rightful occupant before gaining entry. Having a utility bill or ID ready will smooth this process. 5. Consider temporary security If a lock is failing and you’re waiting for the locksmith, consider using a chain lock or secondary bolt to add security until proper repair. 6. Ask for an estimate up front A trusted locksmith will give you a rough cost estimate before starting work, especially if parts are needed. Ask them what additional costs (parts, mileage, late hours) might apply.  Conclusion Preparing in advance helps the locksmith help you faster, safer, and potentially cheaper. At SMS Putney Locksmith, we aim to make the process smooth from beginning to end. Call us anytime for advice or to schedule a visit.
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