Getting locked out is a frustrating, stressful, and potentially dangerous experience. Furthermore, the aggravation it causes is compounded when you discover the high price of a locksmith. Generally, it is not advisable to actively look for the cheapest locksmith in the area, as lower prices will often mean a lower quality job.
If you’re locked out, calling the cheapest locksmith you can find may seem like the best option, but in a twist of irony, pursuing this option could cost you more in the long run. Additionally, by actively seeking out the cheapest locksmith, you increase the risk of stumbling upon locksmith scammers who quote lower prices to hook unsuspecting customers.
Undoubtedly, paying a lot of money every time you lose your keys or break a lock is annoying, frustrating, and expensive. However, there are some straightforward and smart ways to cut costs when hiring a locksmith, and we will highlight these in the following sections, which are all about locksmithing.
Factors To Consider in Determining Locksmith Costs
Locksmiths can perform various specialized jobs. However, there are several factors that you need to consider when determining the average cost for a locksmith.
1. Service
If you have recently moved into a new home, you may want to have a new lock installed or an existing one rekeyed. This way, you can ensure that only those with the new key can unlock the lock and gain access to your home. You can also get new deadbolts fitted or upgrade to electronic locks. Some locksmiths will also assist you in gaining access to a locked safe, filing cabinet, or suitcase. Note that the cost will depend on what services you ask them to do.
2. Issue
Old locks ultimately wear out and must be replaced; the same goes for keys. If a lock or key is worn out or breaks off in the lock, contact a locksmith to help you. Having a trusted locksmith’s contact details on your phone is always a good idea. This way, you can contact them when needed.
The capacity to contact a locksmith in emergencies is incredibly beneficial. For example, if you are locked out of your house or your car key breaks while in the ignition, it’s nice to know your locksmith is only a text or phone call away.
A new car key with a transponder linked to your vehicle’s security system will cost between USD$75 and USD$400. If you’re locked out of your house, a locksmith will charge you roughly USD$150 to make a new key and let you back in. These prices may seem expensive, but in reality, they are a small price to pay for the security of your car or home.
3. Emergencies
Don’t panic if you find yourself locked out of your house late at night. There are emergency after-hours phone numbers for locksmiths, but since they provide after-hours service, they tend to charge more. An emergency visit will cost, on average, between USD$150 and USD$250.
4. Travel Fees
You may be charged a travel fee if you contact a locksmith for your home or automobile. The standard journey charge is $50 to $100, but this might increase to $150 during peak hours. If you reside in more rural locations, this is almost a given.
How Much Do Locksmiths Cost
Here are the most frequent locksmith charges for you can to use as a point of reference:
Home Lock Rekeying Rates
Since the locksmith only adjusts the pins, rekeying a lock is less expensive than replacing it. To rekey a lock, the typical market price ranges from USD$40 to USD$100 plus the cost of the new lock (USD$15 to USD$40). In addition, you’ll likely be charged a travel fee ranging from $50 to $100.
Changing Lock Rates
The amount charged for changing a lock depends on a variety of factors. For example, if a service call is after hours, it will cost more, and service calls dealing with electronic or smart locks will also cost more. Typically, changing house locks will cost between USD$50 to USD$300. However, if the lock requires drilling or is incorporated into a handle, the cost of replacing the lock will be higher.
Electronic Home Lock Installation Rates
Installing a basic electronic security system will typically cost between USD$100 to USD$400. Installing a comprehensive smart-home electronic system will typically cost between USD$400 to USD$1,800, plus the cost of the system itself.
Deadbolt Installation Rates
Most exterior house doors have deadbolts as a primary safety lock. A deadbolt lock installation costs between USD$40 and USD$75, plus the cost of the deadbolt itself.
Key Extraction Rates
If your key becomes stuck in a lock, you’ll need to hire a better, cheaper locksmith to retrieve it without damaging or replacing it. A key extraction might cost anywhere from USD$50 to USD$200.
Key Duplication Rates
A standard house key costs USD$1 to USD$10 to duplicate, but a transponder key programmed to match your car’s security system will cost USD$75 to USD$400 to duplicate.
Smart Ways To Save on Costs When Hiring a Locksmith
Investing in a qualified locksmith is an excellent method to ensure that your locks work correctly and protect your possessions. However, one factor that affects people’s decision to hire a locksmith is the cost. Fortunately, there are viable ways to save on costs when hiring a locksmith. Here’s a list to guide you:
- If possible, wait until after the peak morning hours to avoid additional expenses.
- Be specific about what is broken so that you may get an accurate quote.
- Call several locksmith companies to compare prices.
- Instead of replacing a lock, consider rekeying it.
- Duplicate a worn-out key before it breaks in the lock.
- Keep a spare key in a safe place and get it duplicated in case the original is lost.
- If you frequently misplace your keys, consider upgrading to a smart-lock system that you can unlock with your phone. Even though the upfront expenses are higher, you’ll quickly recover the difference in locksmith fees in the long run.
- Don’t allow the locksmith to drill a hole to access traditional front doors. Reputable locksmiths can obtain access to a front door without causing more damage.
- Inquire about move-in offers, as well as military or senior discounts.
Key Takeaway
Choosing a reliable locksmith may be a bit expensive, but it will be worth it in the long run. Your number one concern should always be the safety of your family and property. You must have the problem resolved as soon as possible whenever something goes wrong with one of your locks or keys. When you need to hire a professional locksmith in the future, consider the information and tips all about locksmithing mentioned in this article to save on costs.
Be Smart and Save on Costs With Alpine Lock and Safe.
Let Alpine Lock and Safe, the top locksmith in Vail, CO, help you save costs when hiring a locksmith for your security needs. With our company’s years of expertise, you’ll have the assurance that your loved ones and property are safe and protected. Furthermore, we guarantee value for your money when our team of experts provides the services that you need. Call us now and experience the satisfaction and savings you deserve.
