How to Choose a Trustworthy Locksmith: 12 Questions to Ask Before You Call

A locksmith is one of the very few tradespeople you trust with the keys to your home or business. Yet many people choose one in a hurry, often while locked out and stressed, by tapping the first result on their phone.

Most locksmiths are skilled, honest professionals. The industry does, however, have a known problem with misleading online listings and call centres posing as local businesses. This guide shows you how to tell the difference.

Why choosing carefully matters

A locksmith may:

Enter your home or business
Know the type and weaknesses of your locks
Cut or hold keys to your property

That's a lot of trust. A few questions take minutes and can save you money, stress and risk.

The 12 questions to ask

1. "What's the name of your business?"

A genuine business answers with its name straight away. Be cautious of vague greetings like "Locksmith, how can I help?".

2. "Are you licensed?"

In Victoria, people who install, maintain or repair security equipment, which includes locksmithing, generally need a private security registration issued through Victoria Police. Ask for the registration number. A genuine locksmith won't mind.

3. "Are you a member of an industry association?"

The Master Locksmiths Association of Australasia (MLAA) vets its members, who must meet standards including trade qualifications, police checks and a code of ethics. Membership is a useful trust signal.

4. "Can you give me an idea of the cost?"

Exact prices can depend on the lock and situation, but a professional can explain the call-out structure and a likely range, and will tell you before starting work if things change.

5. "Are there extra fees?"

Ask about after-hours rates, travel and parts. No surprises.

6. "Will you try to open the lock without damage?"

A skilled locksmith tries non-destructive entry first where possible. Be wary of anyone who wants to drill the lock immediately.

7. "Will you ask for proof that I can access the property?"

You want the answer to be yes. It means they protect every property, including yours.

8. "Are you insured?"

Professionals carry appropriate insurance.

9. "Will I get an invoice?"

Always get an itemised invoice with the business name and contact details.

10. "Do you offer a warranty on parts and workmanship?"

Reputable businesses stand behind their work.

11. "Can you repair it, rather than replace it?"

An honest locksmith will tell you when a repair or rekey is enough.

12. "Where can I read reviews?"

Look for genuine reviews over time on Google and other platforms, and read what people actually describe, not just the star rating.

Red flags

No business name, or different names in different places
An unusually low "from" price in ads
Prices that rise dramatically on arrival
Pressure to decide immediately
Drilling or replacing a lock before trying other methods
An unmarked vehicle and no identification
Cash only, with no invoice
Not asking whether you have the right to access the property

Green flags

A consistent business name, phone number and website
Clear explanations and pricing before work starts
Licence and registration information available
Industry membership
Genuine, detailed reviews
Honest advice, including when not to replace something
Proper invoices and warranties

Save a locksmith before you need one

The best time to choose a locksmith is before an emergency. Research one now while you're calm, then save their number in your phone with a clear name. If you're locked out later, you'll know exactly who to call.

Frequently asked questions

How can I check a locksmith's licence in Victoria? Ask for their private security registration number, which you can check against the Victoria Police licensing records.

Are online reviews reliable? Look for patterns: reviews spread over time, with specific details and replies from the business. Be cautious of sudden bursts of short, generic reviews.

Should I always choose the cheapest quote? Not necessarily. Choose a clear, honest price from a business you can identify.

About us

Locksmith Of Brighton aims to answer every one of these questions clearly and honestly. Read more about us, see our FAQs, or contact us and ask us anything.