If you are looking to hire a locksmith there a some warnings signs you should be aware of before committing to the hiring the locksmith.
Our guide below will cover some major red flags to look out for when searching for a locksmith near you and prevent you from potential hiring a rogue locksmith.
1. Locksmith Google Adverts Stating from £39 / £49 / £59 Price
The locksmith bait and switch price scheme is a major problem in the industry currently, resulting in customers being charged over £500 for a simple job such as a lock out.
Below is what a typical rogue locksmith bait and switch price advert looks like on Google:
The above rogue locksmith advert will draw in desperate customers with the cheap £39 price point.
Bait and Switch Price – The final price is highly unlikely to be £39, we have seen some customers ending up with bills over £500 for a quick lock out job where a cheap initial price was promoted on advertising material.
For advice on costing see our locksmith price guide.
How to Spot a Rogue Locksmith advert
A typical bait and switch rogue locksmith advert will likely consist of the following:
- Cheap Advertised Price be wary of from £39 / £49 or £59 prices – we have found this is the price rogue locksmiths are using
- Top of Google 1st position in the Google Adverts, they have PAID for be here, for a reason!
- Nationwide Problem – Rogue locksmiths also turn on and off their adverts to appear in ALL areas of the UK and at certain times of the day.
If a low price looks too good to be true then more often than not it will be!
This brings us onto the 2nd red flag to look out for, after clicking on their Google advert their website will sometimes make claims of 3rd party approval.
2. Claims of 3rd Party Approval / Certification / Accreditation
One of the other most popular red flags to look out for when hiring a locksmith are false claims of being certified, accredited or DBS checked.
After clicking the Cheap £39 / £49 / £59 Google advert the website usually makes false claims.
Look out for any false claims of the following:
- False claims of being Approved or Certified by a trade association
- False claims of being Vetted by a 3rd party
- False claims of being DBS checked
We come across many false claims of MLA Approved Company status, which is why we recommend verifying your locksmith is a full Master Locksmiths approved company.
As the MLA logo is trademarked we can take action against incorrect use, false claims of being MLA approved is also against the consumer protection from unfair trading regulations.
Genuine Locksmiths will Provide Details of Accreditations
A legitimate locksmith company with genuine 3rd party approval will gladly provide you with the details of their accreditation, most will link through to their 3rd party accreditation profile as proof.
3. Locksmith Claims to be Police Recommended or Work with Police Force
Another red flag is if the locksmith claims to be Police Recommended.
A rogue locksmith will usually claim the following:
- Police Recommended – the Police do not recommend locksmith companies, the Police MAY recommend using an MLA approved locksmith due to the vetting process our locksmiths go through, the Police are highly unlikely to recommend a specific company though.
- Police Approved Locksmith – There is no such thing as being a “Police Approved Locksmith” – the Police DO NOT approve locksmiths!
- Work with MET Police – The MET Police are aware of locksmiths making these false claims and falsely using their logo.
Genuine locksmiths may carry out locksmith jobs for the Police though, but they will not claim to be Police Approved or Police Recommended.
TWO BONUS RED FLAGS
4. Locksmiths Name & Are They Subcontractors?
The final red flag to be aware of when calling a locksmith is the use of subcontractors, this is a clear sign the locksmith is not local and indeed a nationwide company/call centre you are phoning.
Questions to ask a suspected rogue locksmith:
- 1. Name of locksmith – Who will be carrying out the work, do you have the name of the locksmith?
- 2. Are they are a Subcontractor Ask if they are subcontracting the work
- 3. If a subcontractor – ask for the name and contact details in case any problems arise
- 4. Who are you paying – find out who your contract is actually with and who it is that you are paying
5. Locksmith is Vague on the Phone about Price Details
A genuine locksmith should be able to provide a quote for the job either over the phone or by email, as long as they know details about the job.
Red flags of a rogue locksmith prices on the phone are:
- Very vague about price details on the phone
- Keeps mentioning a low price on the phone
- Unable to give accurate price quote for the job e.g price of specific lock, cost to unlock your lock
Pro Top: Read our locksmith price checklist here and don’t be afraid to ask for more information on pricing.
Summary on Spotting a Rogue locksmith
The red flags to look out for when a hiring a locksmith are:
- 1. Cheap Google Advert Price usually states from £39 / £49 / £59
- 2. False Claims of 3rd party approval and accreditation, always check any claims of being vetted/accredited by 3rd parties
- 3. Claims of being Police Recommend or Police Approved
- 4. Using a Subcontractor and refusal to give the locksmiths name usually indicates a call centre subcontracting work.
- 5. Vague on Pricing only mentions low price in advert
For advice on hiring a locksmith see our choosing a locksmith guide here.
Call Now
3 Red Flags When Hiring a Locksmith – How To Spot a Rogue Locksmith & Prevent Being Scammed!
/in Alarm SE7, Alarms se3, Blackheath Locksmith, Canary Wharf, Greenwich locksmith, Latest News, Lock, Locksmith Greenwich, Locksmiths Charlton, Locksmiths Greenwich, NHS Locksmith, Special Offers, Uncategorized /by Bill McFadyenIf you are looking to hire a locksmith there a some warnings signs you should be aware of before committing to the hiring the locksmith.
Our guide below will cover some major red flags to look out for when searching for a locksmith near you and prevent you from potential hiring a rogue locksmith.
1. Locksmith Google Adverts Stating from £39 / £49 / £59 Price
The locksmith bait and switch price scheme is a major problem in the industry currently, resulting in customers being charged over £500 for a simple job such as a lock out.
Below is what a typical rogue locksmith bait and switch price advert looks like on Google:
The above rogue locksmith advert will draw in desperate customers with the cheap £39 price point.
Bait and Switch Price – The final price is highly unlikely to be £39, we have seen some customers ending up with bills over £500 for a quick lock out job where a cheap initial price was promoted on advertising material.
For advice on costing see our locksmith price guide.
How to Spot a Rogue Locksmith advert
A typical bait and switch rogue locksmith advert will likely consist of the following:
If a low price looks too good to be true then more often than not it will be!
This brings us onto the 2nd red flag to look out for, after clicking on their Google advert their website will sometimes make claims of 3rd party approval.
2. Claims of 3rd Party Approval / Certification / Accreditation
One of the other most popular red flags to look out for when hiring a locksmith are false claims of being certified, accredited or DBS checked.
After clicking the Cheap £39 / £49 / £59 Google advert the website usually makes false claims.
Look out for any false claims of the following:
We come across many false claims of MLA Approved Company status, which is why we recommend verifying your locksmith is a full Master Locksmiths approved company.
As the MLA logo is trademarked we can take action against incorrect use, false claims of being MLA approved is also against the consumer protection from unfair trading regulations.
Genuine Locksmiths will Provide Details of Accreditations
A legitimate locksmith company with genuine 3rd party approval will gladly provide you with the details of their accreditation, most will link through to their 3rd party accreditation profile as proof.
3. Locksmith Claims to be Police Recommended or Work with Police Force
Another red flag is if the locksmith claims to be Police Recommended.
A rogue locksmith will usually claim the following:
Genuine locksmiths may carry out locksmith jobs for the Police though, but they will not claim to be Police Approved or Police Recommended.
TWO BONUS RED FLAGS
4. Locksmiths Name & Are They Subcontractors?
The final red flag to be aware of when calling a locksmith is the use of subcontractors, this is a clear sign the locksmith is not local and indeed a nationwide company/call centre you are phoning.
Questions to ask a suspected rogue locksmith:
5. Locksmith is Vague on the Phone about Price Details
A genuine locksmith should be able to provide a quote for the job either over the phone or by email, as long as they know details about the job.
Red flags of a rogue locksmith prices on the phone are:
Pro Top: Read our locksmith price checklist here and don’t be afraid to ask for more information on pricing.
Summary on Spotting a Rogue locksmith
The red flags to look out for when a hiring a locksmith are:
For advice on hiring a locksmith see our choosing a locksmith guide here.
the COVID-19 has turned the Country upside down, locksmiths are seeing the fallout:
/in Blackheath Locksmith, Canary Wharf, Greenwich locksmith, Latest News, Special Offers, Uncategorized /by Bill McFadyenSorry Life under Lockdown is not only changing how people go about their life‘s, but also how crime occurs. There is some good news certain crimes decrease in your area. You may not of noticed that crime is down 20%.
At the same time there are more domestics violence & and online fraud. and empty promises burgled. Shuttered businesses, notably pubs,. restaurants, offices, and other retail stores, have closed. Leaving them vulnerable.
1. What’s the biggest security mistake you find homeowners make?
Those with a composite or UPVC door tend to close the door and think that it’s completely locked, what they don’t understand is that the correct way is to lift the handle up fully and turn the key.
2. Are there any other common mistakes?
Neglecting home security measures on sheds and outbuildings, leaving ladders unchained (allowing burglars to use them as access to the upper floors of the building), not having locking security measures on the first floor bedroom windows, installing cheap locks and leaving the security alarm unarmed just in case it goes off while on holiday thus annoying the neighbours.
3. What do burglars look out for?
Unanswered mail gives burglars a heads up that you’re on holiday – letting everybody know on social media while they are on holiday is even worse! Leaving keys under the porch carpet or in a pot are obvious places for a burglar to look and leaving valuables on display.
4. Why did you choose to become a locksmith?
In the past, I have been a carpenter, cabinetmaker and a bit of a MacGyver. I’ve always liked playing about and picking as a hobby, but about 10 years ago I was a contracts manager in a window manufacturing company and I was made redundant so I decided to give locksmithing a go.
When I got involved with the Master Locksmiths Association I discovered that this is an industry that I find fascinating. I wouldn’t say it was easy at the beginning – there are quite a few three to five-day courses out there where they say you can become a locksmith instantly – believe me this is not the case.
5. What are the best and worst parts of the job?
The best part of the job is the fact that it’s never the same from one day to the next. You are always meeting different people from all walks of life. One day you could be working in a mansion the next day you can be working in public toilets, you just never know.
Also, where else could you get paid to do your hobby? As I have improved over the years I’ve been able to help other locksmiths enhance their skills which is another highlight. The only negative part of the job would be the unsociable hours and the fact that you are never off duty even when you’re on holiday.
6. What would your one top tip for Home Security Month be?
Go outside your house and question how you would enter your premises if you were locked out. It is surprising the number of surveys I do with homeowners where I ask them to do the same things and they realise themselves where their security is really lacking.
Lockmaster1 Locksmiths is here for you
/in Alarm SE7, Alarms se3, Blackheath Locksmith, Canary Wharf, Greenwich locksmith, Latest News, Lock, NHS Locksmith /by Bill McFadyenLockmaster1 Locksmiths is here for you during this challenging time.
We now function as an essential business to provide customers with emergency Callout. Our Mobile office in Greenwich is generally open with limited inventory, Monday to Sunday 8am to 6.30pm. Please adhere to social distancing.
Mobile Emergency Locksmith Greenwich SE10.
We provide lock and key services 8am to 6.30pm, seven days a week. Whether you are locked out of your home or business, our team of reliable locksmiths will come to you in in 15 minutes. Our service is fast! When you call, we will be there to help you immediately.
Our Locksmith will always be qualified Master Locksmith’s
We offer a wide variety of services and products, so if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact Bill at Lockmaster1 Ltd today for more information about how we can best help you with the security of your home or business.
Lockmaster1 Ltd Locksmith in Greenwich Lockmaster1 Ltd Locksmith has been serving in Greenwich since 2000. There’s nothing worse than locking yourself out of your home or Business and having nowhere to turn.
It’s frustrating, stressful, and sometimes can be dangerous. That’s why at Locksmiths Greenwich, we provide quick, reliable services so you never feel alone in a Time of need.
We want to make the process stress-free and simple.
Our qualified Master locksmiths are trained to handle all types of emergency locksmith calls whether if it’s for commercial, residential, business, Locksmiths Greenwich are here for you.
Call Bill at Lockmaster1 Limited on 07908959198 or email us
Lockmaster1 Locksmith Greenwich
/in Alarm SE7, Alarms se3, Blackheath Locksmith, Canary Wharf, Greenwich locksmith, Latest News, Lock, NHS Locksmith, Special Offers, Uncategorized /by Bill McFadyenInterview with a Locksmith Greenwich
/in Alarm SE7, Alarms se3, Blackheath Locksmith, Canary Wharf, Greenwich locksmith, Latest News, Lock, NHS Locksmith, Special Offers, Uncategorized /by Bill McFadyenTo celebrate Home Security Month we’ve been quizzing our locksmith’s members on their top tips for home security, the ups and downs of their job and the weirdest situations locksmithing has gotten them into.
Our latest interview is with Bill McFadyen of Lockmaster1 in Greenwich. After trying everything from cabinet-making to carpentry Bill stumbled across the Master Locksmith Association and discovered locksmithing was where he wanted to focus his attention.
Here, Bill tells all about the security mistakes homeowners make all too often, and the best and worst parts of his job.
1. What’s the biggest security mistake you find homeowners make?
Those with a composite or UPVC door tend to close the door and think that it’s completely locked, what they don’t understand is that the correct way is to lift the handle up fully and turn the key.
2. Are there any other common mistakes?
Neglecting home security measures on sheds and outbuildings, leaving ladders unchained (allowing burglars to use them as access to the upper floors of the building), not having locking security measures on the first floor bedroom windows, installing cheap locks and leaving the security alarm unarmed just in case it goes off while on holiday thus annoying the neighbours.
3. What do burglars look out for?
Unanswered mail gives burglars a heads up that you’re on holiday – letting everybody know on social media while they are on holiday is even worse! Leaving keys under the porch carpet or in a pot are obvious places for a burglar to look and leaving valuables on display.
4. Why did you choose to become a locksmith?
In the past, I have been a carpenter, cabinetmaker and a bit of a MacGyver. I’ve always liked playing about and picking as a hobby, but about 10 years ago I was a contracts manager in a window manufacturing company and I was made redundant so I decided to give locksmithing a go.
When I got involved with the Master Locksmiths Association I discovered that this is an industry that I find fascinating. I wouldn’t say it was easy at the beginning – there are quite a few three to five-day courses out there where they say you can become a locksmith instantly – believe me this is not the case.
5. What are the best and worst parts of the job?
The best part of the job is the fact that it’s never the same from one day to the next. You are always meeting different people from all walks of life. One day you could be working in a mansion the next day you can be working in public toilets, you just never know.
Also, where else could you get paid to do your hobby? As I have improved over the years I’ve been able to help other locksmiths enhance their skills which is another highlight. The only negative part of the job would be the unsociable hours and the fact that you are never off duty even when you’re on holiday.
6. What would your one top tip for Home Security Month be?
Go outside your house and question how you would enter your premises if you were locked out. It is surprising the number of surveys I do with homeowners where I ask them to do the same things and they realise themselves where their security is really lacking.
READ MORE LOCKSMITH INTERVIEWS: for more Interviews with MLA approved Locksmiths, please see our every interview with a locksmith so far page
Lockmaster1 Ltd Working during COVID-19
/in Alarm SE7, Alarms se3, Blackheath Locksmith, Canary Wharf, Greenwich locksmith, Latest News, Lock, NHS Locksmith, Special Offers, Uncategorized /by Bill McFadyenLockmaster1 Ltd qualified Master Locksmiths are still working with emergency locksmiths open for essential work such as locks outs, lock-ins, lock repairs. During the lockdown locksmith shops will be closed or allowing one customer in the shop at a time.
As qualified member of the UK’s largest trade association for locksmiths our customers are kept up to date with developments in relation to COVID-19 as well as ways of working including isolation, social distancing and hygiene.
The number one priority is the health & safety of both locksmiths and the customer, our locksmiths understand the importance in reducing the spread of Coronavirus.
We would advise customers and Locksmiths alike the following.
Hiring a lockmaster1 ltd Locksmith during COVID-19
Locksmith services
Locksmiths are available and here to help.
If you are self-isolating
Do let your Locksmith know if you are self-isolating, locksmiths work with vulnerable individuals and emergency services on a daily basis and must ensure the safety of all customers.
Follow the Governments advice on protecting yourself and the locksmith.
Social Distancing
As we are all aware social distancing measures are in place, our locksmith will not be offended if the normal close proximity and chatty conversations are not happening.
Open 24hrs
Click Here For Directions
MLA APPROVED LOCKSMITH
Locksmith approved by Master Locksmiths Association
LICENSE No: 003657
Lockmaster1 are DBS Checked Locksmiths in Blackheath, SE3 in South East London approved by UKs largest locksmith association. Our locksmiths offer a 24-Hour Emergency Locksmith service in Blackheath, Greenwich and other areas of South East London.
Need a Emergency Locksmith in South East London?:
Mobile: 07908 959198 TAP TO CALL
Blackheath & Greenwich Locksmith
If you are locked out, lost your keys or need your locks changing Lockmaster1 can help with the following:
Locks – Supplied/Fitted & Repaired in Greenwich
Key Cutting in Blackheath & Greenwich (All Keys Cut)
Safe Opening in Blackheath/Greenwich
Access Control Installed
Security Gates & Grilles Fitted
We offer a made to measure service. Designed to deter criminals, gates and grilles can be fitted to almost any door or window. Steel sheets can be fitted externally on vulnerable doors.
Burglar Alarms Installed
Areas We Cover
Accreditations
CPD Approved
Share Locksmith:
Why use a MLA Approved Locksmith?
We are Vetted
We are Inspected
We are Qualified
Home security
/in Uncategorized /by Bill McFadyenIt’s that time of year when you should start looking at your security. Check that your Locks are up to BS 3621 Standard.Also check if your alarm has any faults or needs servicing. Check with your safety Neighbourhood Team if there is any increase in burglaries in your area. Or call my Company Lockmaster1 Ltd or go to the Master Locksmith Association website to find your nearest Master Locksmith to have a full survey undertaken.
Master locksmith Association
Emergency Call out Greenwich
/in Canary Wharf, Latest News, Special Offers, Uncategorized /by Bill McFadyenI attended The customers Premises after he Lost he’s Kays When he was out running in Grenwich park . I opens both doors In less than 30 seconds . He said he couldn’t believe how easy it was open he’s doors. I explained to him that the locks will note up to BS3621 2007. And Low standard of lock. I upgraded he’s Euro Cylinder to a 3 star Cylinder I think insurance documents requested looks up to BS3627 2007. I Advanced Him to contact hey is insurance To let them know what Locks he had installed. On he’s doors. 7 out of 10 customers I visit if they looked up their insurance documents before install new locks. They wood find there locks on the hour or flat door Does not mate there insurance-requirements
.
Emergency Call out Greenwich
/in Canary Wharf, Latest News, Special Offers, Uncategorized /by Bill McFadyenI attended The customers Premises after he Lost he’s Kays When he was out running in Grenwich park . I opens both doors In less than 30 seconds . He said he couldn’t believe how easy it was open he’s doors. I explained to him that the locks will note up to BS3621 2007. And Low standard of lock. I upgraded he’s Euro Cylinder to a 3 star Cylinder I think insurance documents requested looks up to BS3627 2007. I Advanced Him to contact hey is insurance To let them know what Locks he had installed. On he’s doors. 7 out of 10 customers I visit if they looked up their insurance documents before install new locks. They wood find there locks on the hour or flat door Does not mate there insurance-requirements
.
Emergency locksmith Greenwich Blackheath
/in Alarm SE7, Alarms se3, Blackheath Locksmith, Canary Wharf, Greenwich locksmith /by Bill McFadyenMLA qualified and approved company
● No Call Out Charge
● Emergency Door Opening
● 12 Months Guarantee
● No Parking Fees
● Lock Replacement & Repair
● Competitive local rates
● Free estimate
● No Parking Fees
● Locks supplied & fitted to BS3621
● Locks supplied and Fitted to postboxes – cabinets
● Burglary & Door Repairs
● No Parking Fees
● Locks supplied & fitted to BS3621
● Locks supplied and Fitted to postboxes – cabinets
● UPVC mechanism replacements – repair
● Boarding door & window service
● And high-security cylinders
● Commercial & domestic Access Control Systems
● Key Cutting
● safe
● CCTV and Alarms