Locksmiths are a specialised service that supply and install locks and related security equipment. This is a crucial aspect of protecting your family and home as well as being a requirement of most home and contents insurance policies. Locksmiths are best placed to advice on securing your home or business premises, and should be familiar with the latest techniques and technologies in this regard. This includes the supply and installation of locks for your doors, windows as well as padlocks for garden gates.

Besides the supply and installation of equipment, they may also perform a range of other services, including:

• replace lost or stolen keys to your home, premises or car
• duplicate keys
• repair locks
• service and repair safes in the home and in business premises

There are numerous types of locking systems and mechanism. Consult your locksmith for advice on which type is best suited to a particular application. The more common types of locks include:

• Cylinder – one of the most common mechanisms for front door security
• Lever – another common mechanism commonly found on main doors
• Electronic – a key-less system that uses an electronic signal to activate a mechanism
• Deadbolt – a very secure system that is manually operated with no spring mechanism
• Combination – another key-less system that utilises a rotating mechanism of numbers

When contracting a locksmith to supply and install locks in your home, ensure they have police clearance and a confidentiality policy so your privacy and security are not compromised.