For many homeowners and landlords, the first time they ever contact a locksmith is an emergency, typically because they’ve been locked out, have had a key snap in the lock, or have lost their keys and need help quickly to regain access to their properties!

However, in so many cases, we discover that locks have been sticky or temperamental for months, if not years, or that the person has long known they don’t have a backup set of keys and could have avoided the cost of an emergency callout altogether.

To give a better insight into the wide range of services we provide, we’ve summarised some of the many reasons to consider contacting an independent, experienced locksmith, rather than leaving it until a crisis occurs.

Understanding the Services Available from a Master Locksmith

At Eydens Locksmiths and Security, we’re a team of MLA-approved master locksmiths, which means we provide comprehensive lock and security-related services to clients. These range from Coventry key cutting to insurance surveys, fixing or replacing broken lock mechanisms, and advising on the best ways to augment home security.

While we can and do provide emergency locksmith services, the reality is that these can commonly be avoided by thinking about your access points, the sets of keys you have, where these are stored, and whether you’re 100% confident your locks and keys are in good condition.

There are, of course, unavoidable situations, such as having lost keys or having a bag snatched, that you can’t foresee. Even if you have a spare set with a trusted friend, family member or neighbour, you’ll likely still need to contact a locksmith to get the locks changed now that a key is in someone else’s hands.

That said, we can offer advice that, in the vast majority of cases, will ensure your locks, doors, windows, and latches are well maintained, and that you’ve got a backup plan in place just in case you lose a set of keys and need to get back into your home quickly.

1. Organising Key Cutting and Lock Replacements in Coventry

It’s often wise to have a couple of spares, although ensuring you know who has those keys and that they’re stored somewhere appropriate is essential to preventing security risks. 

Key cutting and, potentially, lock replacements can be beneficial in various circumstances, even if the existing locks are working well, and we recommend giving us a call if you:

  • Have just one key to your front door
  • Need to replace locks following the departure of a previous tenant
  • Want to switch a lock where you’re unsure how many people have previously been issued keys
  • Are updating existing keys and locks to more robust security locks 

We also speak with clients who require a copy of a high-security key, or keys that require specialist programming, since these can’t be copied at a conventional high-street kiosk and are only available through verified, professional locksmiths.

2. Replacing Locks Before They Fail or Malfunction

It’s usually fairly easy to spot a warning sign that your locks aren’t going to last much longer, and we’d recommend getting them looked at sooner rather than later. It could be a straightforward job to replace a faulty part or a worn barrel, and it’ll inevitably be less stressful to have new locks installed if necessary, before the lock stops working. 

Should any of the following sound familiar, now is the right time to contact Eydens or your local locksmith:

  • The key is becoming harder to turn in the lock
  • Your locks feel loose and ‘wobbly’
  • You’re having to jiggle and fiddle with the key to open or close the lock

If we suggest an upgraded lock, we’ll be able to run through all the options that will both improve your security and fit within your budget or advise on additional or higher-rated locks if you’re worried about break-in risks.

3. Dealing With Repairs or Replacements to UPVC Window and Door Locks

UPVC doors and windows are a common feature within many modern properties, and within period homes that have had new double glazing, patio doors, or conservatories installed, but the keys can be prone to breakage and, in some cases, are basic models that are scarily easy to bypass.

Most have a standard euro lock barrel, and because these are so common, and the keys are simple, this can create a security issue that homeowners might not be aware of.

It’s well worth calling out a locksmith at a convenient day and time if:

  • You know you’ve only got basic-standard UPVC window or door locks and aren’t satisfied that these are meeting your security needs.
  • There have been increased break-ins in your area, and your lack of confidence in your locks is making you lose sleep.
  • You’re planning a holiday or a few days away and want the absolute peace of mind that you won’t return home to find the door cylinders have been snapped, or intruders have gained entry through your windows.

We can also provide emergency callouts if you have a broken UPVC window or door lock and can provide independent advice for clients who want Sold Secure, 3-star British Standard locks they can fully rely on.

4. Scheduling a Security Assessment for Your Home or Business

We’ve focused mainly on services we provide for residential properties and landlords. Still, as full-service locksmiths, we also assist local businesses, and for many, a security assessment is the first step towards introducing more effective, preventive security measures.

Our assessment process is suited to both businesses and homes and ensures you receive insights from seasoned professionals. We can offer recommendations on how and where to improve security, the condition of your existing locks, the likelihood of a lock breaking or failing, and how best to meet the conditions imposed by your insurance provider.

Often, upgrading locks and providing an independently-produced insurance assessment from a master locksmith can improve your premiums, giving you the triple benefit of a safer premise or home, cheaper insurance costs, and ongoing peace of mind.

For more information about Coventry key cutting, lock replacements, or security assessments, visit the Eydens Locksmith and Security website or get in touch to speak with an experienced, MLA-approved locksmith.