How to become a locksmith in the UK
Locksmith training opportunities
What is the best way to become a locksmith in the UK?
If the idea of becoming a locksmith in the UK interests you, here are a few things you need to know.
How long does it take?
Like any professional industry you develop your skills over time and develop new techniques. You could specialise as an Auto Locksmith, but for many this is an expensive option as you will need a heavy investment for the specific systems all modern cars have in place.
A commercial and residential locksmith can train up quickly and begin work straight away. Fast-Track Locksmith Courses provide a three day training course that will cover the basics, and they will also support you on the job.
What services will you provide?
There are many areas you can cover.
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Domestic doors and windows
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Safes
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Cars
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Access Control
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24 Emergency Call outs
Set up costs?
These will vary depending on the area you cover, but in your business plan you should work out your expenses for:
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Vehicle and associated costs
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Tools (such as hand tools, picks, key cutting machines)
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Insurance
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Advertising
Print advertising is still viable, with local publications bringing in business. The majority of leads will however come from the Internet.
Google Ads campaigns can be pricey, but you can also build a following and come up in searches by developing your own online presence. Fast-Track Locksmith Courses include business training and post-course support.
A lockdown friendly business
Being a locksmith is pandemic proof as people will still need your services whatever else is going on in the world.
What skills do I need
You will need to be physically fit due to the nature of the job, but in fact doing the job is a great way of keeping in trim too. Attention to detail and patience are important. We get a lot of enquires from people who are 50+ and want to wind down the physicality of their work.
Is it an easy job?
To be successful you will need to put in a lot of hours, both in tending to locks, but also with advertising and accounts. Of course you are not working set hours, so it can be extremely convenient to be able to pick your kids up from school sometimes. On the other side though you will sometimes work unsociable hours if for example you do emergency call-outs, the benefit there is you usually charge a higher rate.
How much will I earn?
There is not one answer, but providing you work full-time a good locksmith can expect to make £40,000 - £65,000. Many people fall somewhere between this. One locksmith talks here about his experience and earnings. The more you diversify, the more you will earn.