The pricing of locksmith services is largely determined by multiple factors. Callout fees, charges for the labour, the intricacy of the job and the time of day, are the components that form the total quote your local locksmith gives. However, the typical hourly rate is around $60, which can increase depending on the time of day you are hiring. During business hours, the response fee can be around $100 and $110 while the after-hours or weekend services can cost from $150 to $200. Emergency services after midnight will require an additional $300 for call-out. The cost for different service types also depends on the complexity level, where rekeying a lock costs $150 to $190, and more extreme jobs can cost from $220 to $330. Having these insights at your fingertips, you will be able to make an informed decision when you hire a locksmith, ensuring that the job will be done properly and to your satisfaction.
What Can A Locksmith Do?
Most of the time when we mention locksmiths it is in connection with the manufacture of new keys or in solving an emergency caused by being trapped outside your residence or vehicle. However, the range of available services from trained locksmiths is not limited only to such typical situations.
Core Services
- Rekeying Existing Locks: Particularly useful when relocating to a different property, re-keying guarantees security by invalidating the previous keys.
- Installation of Door Hardware: From knobs to key locks, locksmiths can reinforce the security of doors that are already installed.
- Key Extraction: Locksmiths will possess the tools and expertise to remove a key broken in a lock in a safe manner.
- Electronic Lock Systems: Most locksmiths can install modern keyless or electronic locks, thus providing home and business owners with added comfort and security.
- Automotive Services: Locksmiths are experts in the handling of automotive locks and ignitions and offer solutions for car key lockouts and ignition key problems.
Beyond Basics:
Some locksmiths offer specialized services, including:
Emergency Assistance:
Locksmiths have many choices to select at any time, and prompt restoration of home, vehicle, or office premises. The use of stocked fully-equipped vans allows them to often resolve issues on-site without further trips.
Security Consultation:
Locksmiths do not only provide immediate help, but they also share security advice. They can carry out inspections of existing locks, advise on upgrades, and offer quotes for additional security services. Compliance with Australian standards builds the efficiency and longevity of the locks installed in terms of corrosion resistance and fire resistance ratings.
Quality Assurance:
Certified locksmiths usually specialize in security, being members of associations of locksmith professionals and holding insurance and licensing standards. Of course, licensing isn't always compulsory. But it demonstrates a commitment to industry regulations and standards.
How Much Does A Locksmith Cost?
Locksmith services as a whole incorporate an array of responsibilities, each with its price tag. Knowing the charges can help you plan your finances and choose the best locksmith company to hire.
Average Prices:
- Changing Locks: The price range for car and house locks will be about $100-$250.
- Re-keying or Opening Locks: Similarly, opening locks on houses and rekeying locks usually also costs around $100-$250.
- Installing External Door and Locks: An external door that has locks in it can cost up to $200.
- Additional Fees: Some locksmiths may prefer to charge more for consumables like lock cylinders. Always ask for a quote which is a detailed one.
Call Out Fees:
- Standard Hours: During normal times, call-out fees usually cost between $65 and $110.
- After-Hours Rates: As for the overnight services, these charge higher fees. Expect to pay between $150 to $200 for weekend or weeknight services and up to $300 for midnight services.
Factors Affecting Locksmith Costs
- Complexity of the Job: Prices can differ greatly depending on the complexity of the task. As an example, the price of changing locks can vary from $30 to $300 depending on the type of lock.
- Re-keying Costs: Re-keying a lock without changing the pins is a cost of $15-$20 per door, whereas rearranging the pins to render the old key ineffective could be $40-$100.
- Key Cutting: Usually, it costs between $4 and $20 to have a regular key cut, but if you need a special type of key, then you should pay more.
- Car Lockout Services: If you realize you have locked yourself out of your car, you should prepare to pay between $30 and $50 for a locksmith to get you in.
Additional Considerations:
- Emergencies: Often, after-hour lockouts cost more because of the limited availability and the necessity of fast service.
- Trip Fee: Locksmiths may charge a call fee, which varies depending on the travelling distance. Rural areas usually involve additional costs.
- Service Type: The price of different locksmith services varies depending on the complexity of the problem and the equipment needed to complete the job.
- Security Assessment: A locksmith will assess in advance the level of security of your home or office premises and suggest upgrades or changes if necessary. Their knowledge is essential for the organization of security measures that remain accessible.
- Average Locksmith Costs: The average locksmith services fees entail lock-changing, re-keying, unlock gate assistance and key cutting within the given range.
Expert Tips for Hiring a Locksmith
- Seek Multiple Quotes: Get quotes from different local locksmiths to get a perspective on pricing, based on your needs.
- Review Credentials: Give preference to locksmiths who have positive reviews, insurance, and licensing because it will ensure reliability and safety.
- Verify Training and Reputation: Choose a locksmith who has proper professional knowledge and who has a strong standing in the industry.
- Clarify Additional Fees: Enquire about any additional costs to ensure there are no unwanted surprises.
- Prioritize Experience: Experienced locksmiths can do a great job of unlocking doors without damage, so if drastic measures like lock replacement or drilling are proposed, get a second opinion.
- Knowledge and Reliability: Give preference to locksmiths with a proven reputation for professionalism, punctuality and speed that is anticipated during emergencies.
- Availability and Pricing: Guarantee their 24/7 availability but high cost for weekends and late nights.
- Transparent Pricing: Ask for an estimated cost first, but be ready for extra costs after the assessment.
- Insurance: Make sure that the locksmith carries insurance and belongs to respectable organizations such as the Master Locksmiths Association of Australia for more confidence in qualifications, registration and security licensing.
Deciding a locksmith service comes with the consideration of costs, qualifications and reliability to achieve the best possible results. You can post your work details on ServiceTasker™ to find the best locksmith serving at reasonable rates.
Costs of various services and materials in this cost guide should be taken as estimates. These depend on location, preference and demands in the market.
