What Does a Locksmith Do?

A locksmith is a skilled tradesperson who repairs, installs and builds locks. They also make keys and advise on security measures. Some locksmiths specialize in home and commercial security systems. Others work on a wider range of door hardware, including electric strikes, doors closers and hinges.

Often, people call locksmiths for emergency services when they’re locked out of their homes. This might be due to a mistake they made when leaving their house (leaving a key behind) or simply because they’re unable to open the lock themselves.

A good locksmith can help with these issues quickly and efficiently. They’ll inspect the problem and discuss options, ranging from cleaning or lubricating the lock to replacing it completely. Most importantly, they’ll provide an accurate quote before carrying out the work.

Locksmiths should be customer service oriented, as they’re often called to deal with emergencies at inconvenient times. This means they should be able to calm the customer down and explain the problem clearly, as well as offer advice on how to avoid future problems.

To become a locksmith, an individual will need to undergo a background check. This will include a criminal record check, and depending on the country, this may involve a Disclosure and Barring Service in England or a Protecting Vulnerable Groups scheme in Scotland. They’ll also need a full driving licence and access to a vehicle, as they’re often required to travel between sites. Additionally, they’ll need to be mobile locksmith able to operate basic hand tools and machinery.