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Why does a locksmith cost so much?

Locksmiths play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and security of our homes and businesses. However, when we need their services, we can find

Recent Posts

Halloween Home Security Tips

Dark, spooky nights are drawing in. Stay safe during Halloween with these home security tips.

The dark, gloomy night approaches as we get closer to Halloween. As the nights grow longer, you may be wondering why it’s getting darker earlier. For those curious, the clocks go back 1 hour on the 29th which is the last Sunday of October. This means you’ll most likely see Halloween trick or treaters dressed in spooky costumes outside of your house much earlier than expected.

You can expect to see a lot more tricksters roaming the streets this Halloween, dressed as iconic characters like Wednesday Addams and M3gan. Of course, we can’t forget the legendary Michael Myers. Fuelled by the release of the ‘Halloween Ends’ movie last year, the streets promise to be teeming with ‘The Shape’ himself, wandering around your neighbourhood during the dark of night.

To put your mind at ease, here are some Halloween home security tips to keep your home secure.

Lock up, especially at night!

Halloween home security tips - hooded figure standing outside of window

Did you know that 60% of burglary in the UK happens between 6pm – 6am? You’d be shocked to find out that 42% of people don’t lock both their doors and windows together according to the Office of National Statistics. Burglars take advantage of this, and combined with it getting darker much earlier, it only makes it more convenient for them to enter your home. If you’re planning on going to a Halloween party, make sure to lock up and secure your home before you go. After all, you don’t want to return home to find Ghostface waiting in your living room…

Add Outdoor Lighting

Halloween home security tips - house with an outdoor light

Having lights outside of your house gives burglars the impression that people are home and therefore makes it less likely that they will try breaking into your property.

Motion sensor lights can be extremely effective at deterring potential break-ins, as they surprise intruders when approaching your property, signalling your awareness of their presence.

Carving some spooky pumpkins for Halloween? Perhaps your pumpkin could have a light attached outside of your front door or on your porch. What better way to make intruders intimidated than a petrifying pumpkin holding a bright light, exposing those that lurk in the darkness.

Create a Tricky Landscape

Consider strategically placing prickly plants and bushes near your windows. Thorny plants can act as a natural barrier to deter potential intruders and the moment they get hit with a prick, you’ll be alerted by the telltale signs of their presence.

Another way to spot intruders on your property is to add gravel outside of your windows. The sound created acts as a natural alarm system, discouraging potential intruders from approaching your windows.

It’s also worth noting in regards to landscape the importance of trimming your front hedges. Crimestoppers did a poll which showed that ⅔ of people surveyed faced an increased risk of burglary due to high hedges.

Security Cameras

Halloween home security tips - security camera outside of building

Installing 24/7 security cameras on your property is a huge deterrent for burglars. They will see it as a warning and sign that you have a sophisticated security system in place. Intruders prefer to take advantage of less secure properties so having something as simple as a camera can be enough to prevent unwanted break ins.

Video doorbells are useful for knowing exactly who is at your door when they ring the bell. They come equipped with a camera and a microphone allowing you to see and speak to the person before deciding to open the door, minimising the risk of distraction burglary. Learn more about installing a 24/7 surveillance system with our Yale Smart Home CCTV.

Keep your valuables locked away

This Halloween, the only people who should be taking goodies for free are the kids trick or treating. Don’t leave your expensive jewellery lying around. Keep any cash or sensitive documents locked away so intruders don’t get enticed to try and steal it. Ideally, you want it to be so secure that not even those sneaky, spectral spirits can get to your valuables.

Halloween is a night where the mischievous thrive and for many homeowners, it can be quite worrying to think about all the things that could happen. It’s important to focus on what you can control vs what you can’t. While you may not be able to control what other people decide to do on that hallowed night of fun and danger, you can control your own home security. If you’re looking to update your security, find your local locksmith to ensure peace of mind.

Sources:

Office for National Statistics: https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/crimeandjustice/articles/overviewofburglaryandotherhouseholdtheft/englandandwales

Crimestoppers: https://crimestoppers-uk.org/news-campaigns/news/2022/jun/two-thirds-of-households-putting-homes-at-increased-risk-of-burglary-through-high-hedges-warns-crim

How to Prevent Burglary: Top Tips to Safeguard Your Home

As a nationally recognised locksmith company, LockRite truly understands the importance of home security. Your home is your sanctuary, and it’s crucial to protect it from potential burglaries. In this blog post, we’ll provide expert tips and advice on how to prevent burglary, ensuring peace of mind for you and your family. These strategies are based on factual information and proven methods, so you can trust that they work.

Install High-Quality Locks:

One of the most effective ways to prevent burglary is by installing high-quality locks on all entry points, including doors, windows, and the garage. Choose locks that meet the British Standard (BS3621) if you can, for the best security. Additionally, you might consider installing deadbolts, rim locks, or mortice locks to further reinforce your home’s defenses.

Reinforce Doors and Windows:

Burglars often target weak entry points. Strengthen your doors and windows by adding security measures such as door chains, peepholes, and good window locks. Reinforced or laminated glass are also options that can make it more difficult for intruders to break in.

Use a Home Security System:

Investing in a reliable home security system can significantly deter burglars. As well as being a good deterrent, it can help you monitor any potential weak spots and may even help to reduce your Home Insurance costs.

Opt for a comprehensive smart system that includes a variety of security products, such as burglar alarms, doorbell cameras, motion sensors, and CCTV cameras. Not only do these components deter potential intruders, but they also provide crucial evidence in case of a break-in. Read how this Ring Doorbell footage helped police to identify a burglar after a failed break-in attempt.

Ensure your security system is professionally installed and maintained for optimal effectiveness.

Smart Home CCTV

Illuminate Your Home:

Darkness provides cover for burglars, so proper lighting is essential. Install outdoor lighting around your property, particularly near entry points and vulnerable areas like the garage or garden. Motion sensor lights are particularly effective as they startle intruders and draw attention to their presence.

Outside Motion Sensor Lighting

Secure Your Garden:

Don’t neglect the security of your outdoor space. Trim overgrown shrubs and trees that may provide hiding spots for burglars. Install sturdy fences and gates, and consider adding prickly bushes or thorny plants near vulnerable access points. Use robust locks to secure garden sheds and garages, ensuring valuable items are out of sight.

A recent study from Crimestoppers polling 1,000 UK households indicated that 2/3 were at an increased risk of burglary because their front hedge exceeded the height recommended by the police and charity Crimestoppers. These statistics highlight the need for routine garden maintenance to help deter intruders. Consider keeping your front hedges from exceeding the 1 metre recommended height.

Don’t Advertise Your Absence:

When you’re away from home, create the illusion of activity to deter burglars. Use timers to turn on lights and perhaps even a radio or television. If you can, ask a trusted neighbour or friend to collect mail and parcels, or you can temporarily redirect deliveries. Avoid sharing your absence on social media, as burglars may exploit this information.

Join a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme:

Participating in a Neighbourhood Watch scheme fosters community collaboration and helps prevent crime. By working together, neighbours can share information and look out for each other. Neighbourhood Watch signs alone can act as a deterrent for burglars, as they indicate a vigilant and proactive community.

Not sure if you live in a Neighbourhood Watch area? Search for a Neighbourhood Watch in your area.

Community and Collaboration - Neighbourhood watch meeting


In conclusion, protecting your home from burglaries requires a combination of smart security measures and proactive strategies. By implementing the tips mentioned above, you can significantly reduce the risk of break-ins and keep your property and loved ones safe. Remember, prevention is key, and investing in reliable security systems and reinforcing your home’s defenses is always worthwhile.

Sources:

Crime Prevention Advice, UK Police: https://www.police.uk/crime-prevention-advice/burglary/

National Home Security Month: https://www.homesecuritymonth.com/

Yahoo News: https://uk.news.yahoo.com/burglar-caught-camera-ring-doorbell-145031212.html

Go Compare: https://www.gocompare.com/home-insurance/guide/security/

Crimestoppers: https://crimestoppers-uk.org/news-campaigns/news/2022/jun/two-thirds-of-households-putting-homes-at-increased-risk-of-burglary-through-high-hedges-warns-crim

Neighbourhood Watch: https://www.ourwatch.org.uk/get-involved/find-my-local-scheme

Why does a locksmith cost so much?

Locksmiths play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and security of our homes and businesses. However, when we need their services, we can find ourselves questioning the cost of their work. All our customers see the value of our work, but before getting in contact, may have asked themselves, why does a locksmith cost so much? We wanted to tackle this question head on and share the factors that account for the fair and reasonable prices that we charge so you can have peace of mind that a Local LockRite locksmith is worth every penny. Know the value in our work? View our up-to-date Locksmith Pricing guide to see the typical cost of a locksmith in the UK.

The Value Of Locksmith Training And Certifications

Firstly, it’s important to understand that a locksmith’s job involves much more than just unlocking doors. LockRite Locksmiths are highly skilled professionals that have undergone extensive training and our business has acquired numerous certifications, so we provide a wide range of security services to domestic and commercial clients while adhering to high quality standards. Our services include installing, repairing, and maintaining locks, security systems and more. See our Locksmith accreditations, which include : ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, CHAS, Constructionline and Altius.

LockRite Locksmiths also need to stay up-to-date with the latest security technology to provide the best possible service to their customers. Learn more about Smart Locks

The Value of Availability

One of the main reasons that drives up prices for Locksmiths is that they are available 24/7, 365 days a year. Emergencies can happen at any time, and when they do, you need someone who can respond quickly and efficiently. Our locksmiths often have to work outside of regular business hours, and this requires us to charge a premium for their services.

The Value of having the Right Tools for the Job

Another factor that contributes to the cost of locksmith services is the equipment and tools they use. Our skilled locksmiths have a range of specialised tools and equipment that are necessary for their work,including specialised lock picks, pick guns, tension tools, key-cutting machines and more. In some cases, Locksmiths may even need to use drills, however, drills are typically a last resort when it comes to opening a door. These tools can be costly to purchase and maintain, and this cost is reflected in our locksmith pricing.

The Value of Door-to-door service

Locksmiths often have to travel to their customers’ locations, and this is also a factor that contributes to the cost of their services. They may need to drive long distances, pay for parking or tolls, and spend time travelling to the job site. All of these factors contribute to the final cost of the service.

The Value of Guaranteed work

It’s also worth noting that not all locksmith services are created equal. A reputable locksmith company like LockRite will provide a guarantee of quality workmanship and stand behind their work. This means that if there are any reported issues with the service provided, we will assess the workmanship and return to fix it if we’re at fault.

The Value of Security

It’s also essential to consider the value of the security services that a locksmith provides. The cost of a locksmith may seem high at first, but when you consider the value of securing your home or business, it becomes a worthwhile investment. Our skilled local locksmiths can provide peace of mind by ensuring that your property is protected and that you and your family are safe.

A worthwhile investment

The cost of a locksmith may seem high at first glance, but it’s important to consider the value of their services. Locksmiths are highly trained professionals who provide an essential service in ensuring the safety and security of our homes and businesses. When you choose a reputable locksmith like LockRite, you can be confident that you are receiving quality workmanship and peace of mind. Are you in need of a Locksmith? Contact LockRite for a no obligation quote. 

Locksmith Services

Lock Outs Service

If you’re locked out, we can get you back in! We’re experts at picking locks and gaining entry.

Lock Changes and Repair Service

We change, repair and fit a wide variety of locks, including : Mortice Locks & Euro Cylinders.

Smart Locks Services

Our expert locksmiths can supply and fit the latest digital smart locks. Including the Yale Linus.

CCTV Installation Service

Our trained locksmiths can supply and fit the latest High definition CCTV to your home or business premises.

Alarm Installation Service

Our locksmiths can professionally install the full range of Yale smart alarms.

Window Boarding Service

Our locksmiths can provide boarding services to secure your home or commercial premises.

Security Surveys Service

We offer a full security survey service. Do you really know how secure your home or property is?

Key Cutting Services

We can cut extra keys for your home or office. Our locksmiths carry a range of key blanks.

Smart Security Installed

Our experts can install a range of smart security products, including smart locks, CCTV and alarms.
Yale Linus Smart Lock

Yale Linus
Smart Lock

The Yale Linus door lock. A keyless lock, designed to secure and simplify your life. Lock and unlock your door, no matter where you are.

yale Conexis L1 Lock Installed

Yale Conexis
Smart Lock

The smart door lock that puts you fully in control. The Yale Conexis gives you the freedom to secure your home without the need for a key.

Yale Keyless Connected Smart Lock Installed

Yale Keyless
Connected Smart Lock

The Keyless Lock allows you complete control over how you lock your home. Unlock with a PIN, key card, key tag, remote fob or your phone.

Yale Sync Smart Alarm Siren

Yale Sync Alarm

The Yale Linus door lock. A keyless lock, designed to secure and simplify your life. Lock and unlock your door, no matter where you are.

Yale Smart CCTV Installed

Yale CCTV

The smart door lock that puts you fully in control. The Yale Conexis gives you the freedom to secure your home without the need for a key.