Locked out — what to do before you call anyone

Is there another way in?

Back door. Side gate. Window you left ajar. Garage. Conservatory. Check every possible entry point before calling anyone. A locksmith is the last resort — not the first.

Does anyone else have a key?

Family member. Friend. Neighbour. Landlord. Managing agent. Even a taxi to collect a spare key costs less than a rogue locksmith callout.

Are you renting?

Your landlord or letting agent may have a legal obligation to assist. Call them first — particularly out of hours when a rogue operator is most likely to be the top Google result.

Is it late at night? Consider a hotel.

A budget hotel room costs £50 to £80. A midnight rogue locksmith callout can cost £300 to £800. Book a room. Charge your phone. Find a genuine MLA locksmith in the morning. Remove the panic — remove the vulnerability.

"What company name will appear on my invoice?"

Same name as the listing — genuine. Different name or hesitation — fake call centre. End the call.

"Can you give me a firm total price before you arrive?"

Realistic range — genuine. "From £49" or "depends on the job" — bait price tactic. End the call.

"Will you try non-destructive entry before drilling?"

Yes always — genuine. Vague or no — end the call.

Standard lockout

£80—£150

Cylinder replacement

£80—£160

Late night emergency

£120—£200

Quoted £39 or £49?

Hang up