It can be frustrating and stressful to get locked out of your house, replace your key, or upgrade your security system. In these situations, professional locksmith services are often required. How much should you be expecting to pay? Understanding Locksmith Service Prices will help you to budget and avoid unexpected costs.
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Average Locksmith Service Cost
Locksmith services costs can vary depending on factors such as service type, location and time of service. In the U.S., the average price of locksmith service is between $50 and $215 per call. The national average is around $150.
These are the most common locksmith services costs.
- Home lockouts: $50 to $150
- Vehicle Lockouts: $60 to $85
- Lock changes: $75 to $220 for cars and $80 to $200 for homes
- Rekeying Locks: $50-$130 for Homes, $75-$180 for Cars (plus $10-$25 per lock cylinder).
- Duplication of Keys: From $1 to $10 for standard car keys up to $400 for advanced keys and fobs
- Emergency/After-Hours Service: Additional $100 – $250
What factors affect locksmith pricing
The cost of hiring an expert locksmith is determined by several factors.
1. Types of service
- Lockouts in Urgent Situations: In urgent situations such as lockouts of your home or vehicle, you may be charged higher fees.
- Rekeying & Lock Installation: Prices can vary depending on whether the lock is electronic, high-security or traditional.
- Duplicating keys: Basic car keys are cheap, but high-tech keys can be expensive.
- Installation of Smart Locks: The installation of smart locks, or advanced digital locks, often requires additional labor and expertise. This increases the cost.
2. Service Time
- After-Hours vs. Regular Hours: Charges for services provided at night, on weekends, and during holidays will be higher.
- Locksmiths Charge more for emergency services, especially after-hours.
- Peak Hours : Some Locksmiths may charge higher prices during peak hours of business when the demand is greater.
3. Location
- Urban vs. Rural Areas: Due to the higher costs of living and operating in cities, locksmiths charge more.
- Travel Charges: Additional fees may be charged for areas with high traffic or long distances.
- State-by-State Variations: Prices may vary depending on local economies and costs of living.
4. Job Complexity
- Advanced Lock Systems High security locks or electronic system require specialized tools, which increases the cost.
- Old or damaged locks: Additional labor and parts might be needed if your lock is old or damaged.
- Safe opening: Safe opening can be complex and require advanced techniques. This may lead to higher costs.
The Hourly Locksmith Rates
Locksmiths typically charge $97 to $215 per hour, depending on the services. After-hours or emergency services can cost you an extra $100 up to $250.
Unlocking a Car or Door
- Lockout of the House: $50 to $150 (upto $250 for emergency lockouts).
- Car lockout: $50-150 (luxury cars or vehicles with high security may cost between $90-120).
- Safe Unlocking : $35 to $400 depending on the type of safe and the method required
What is the cost of rekeying by a locksmith?
Rekeying can be more affordable than replacing locks. You can expect to pay the following:
- Rekeying a Single Lock: $50 to $130
- Rekeying multiple locks: $75 to $300
- Rekeying High-Security locks: $100-$250
Rekeying can be a cost-effective method to improve security, particularly when you move into a new house or lose your key.
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Additional Locksmith Services and their Costs
1. Lock Installation & Replacement
- Deadbolt Installation: $100 – $250 per lock
- Electronic/Smart Lock Installation: $150 – $400 per lock
- Commercial Lock Installation: $200 – $500 per lock
2. Key Cutting and Duplication
- Standard House key: $1 to $10
- Copy of a Car Key: $50 to $150
- Transponder Key Copy: $75 – $250
- High-Tech Car Key Replacement: $200 – $400
3. Installing Security Systems
- CCTV Installation: $500 – $2,000
- Access control system: $1,000 to $5,000
- Smart Home Security System $500 to $3,000
Saving Money on Locksmith Services
Consider the following to avoid paying too much for locksmith services:
- Compare prices: Get quotes from multiple locksmiths.
- Ask about Additional Fees: Inquire regarding extra charges such as service fees or trip fees.
- Hire Local Locksmiths Local providers offer better rates than national chains.
- Avoid Emergency Calls: When possible, schedule your calls during regular hours.
- Regularly maintain your locks: Regular upkeep prevents costly repairs.
How To Find A Reliable Locksmith
It is important to hire a reputable locksmith for your safety. How to hire the best professional
- Review and Ratings: Search for locksmiths who have positive feedback from customers.
- Verify Credentials : Make sure the locksmith has a license, bond, and insurance.
- Ask about Experience: Select locksmiths who have a track record of success in the industry.
- Request an Estimate in Writing: Prevent unexpected charges by obtaining a detailed estimate upfront.
- Ask about Guarantees: Reliable Locksmiths offer warranties for their work.
Common Locksmith Scams – How to Avoid them
Some locksmiths are dishonest and take advantage of their customers during emergencies. Beware of:
- Low-cost Quotes: Scammers can advertise low prices but then increase the cost upon arrival.
- Unmarked vehicles: An established locksmith should arrive with a company-branded vehicle.
- Insufficient Licensing Always request proper identification and licensing.
- Pressure tactic: Scammers might insist on costly replacements instead of simple repairs.
Refuse service if you suspect that a locksmith may be trying to scam. Contact a reputable professional instead.
Unico Locksmith – Reliable and Affordable Locksmith Services
Unico Locksmith can help you if you are looking for fast and professional locksmith services. We offer expert locksmith services for residential, commercial and automotive needs at affordable prices. We can help you if you are locked out, require lock replacements or wish to upgrade your security.
We offer the following services:
- Locksmiths available 24/7
- Rekeying locks and lock replacement
- Smart lock installation
- Duplication and programming of car keys
- High-security locks
Call Unico Locksmith today at 240-426 3755 for reliable service that you can rely on! We offer the highest quality security solutions for the lowest prices.