How much should an emergency lockout cost in Glasgow?
The short answer
A standard daytime lockout, where the locksmith gets you in without damaging the lock, typically costs £90 to £130, around £110 on average. At night, expect a call-out fee of £50 to £150 on top of a higher hourly rate. If a lock has to be drilled and replaced, add the cost of the new lock. Always agree the total price before the locksmith sets off.
Key points
- Regaining entry typically costs £90 to £130 during the day.
- Out-of-hours call-out fees usually range from £50 to £150.
- A good locksmith tries non-destructive entry before drilling.
- Adverts promising "from £49" often lead to much bigger bills on the doorstep.
- Ask for the full price, the locksmith's name and their business address before they travel.
Typical lockout prices
| Job or time | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Regain entry to a property | £90 to £130 (average £110) |
| Out-of-hours call-out fee | £50 to £150 (average £100) |
| Out-of-hours hourly rate | £80 to £200 (average £140) |
| Remove a broken key | £80 to £100 |
| Hourly rate, 8am to 6pm | About £65 |
| Hourly rate, midnight to 6am | About £120 |
If the lock has to be replaced
Most lockouts on a standard front door can be opened without damage. If the lock has to be drilled, or you want it changed after losing keys, add the lock:
- Yale-type nightlatch: around £90 to £120 fitted.
- Standard uPVC cylinder: around £100 to £150 fitted.
- Anti-snap uPVC cylinder: around £125 to £175 fitted.
- Mortice lock: around £115 to £165 fitted.
If you need a new lock anyway, choose one that meets your insurer's requirements. Our guide to which locks home insurance requires explains the standards.
The "from £49" trap
The Master Locksmiths Association warns about a scam it calls the "49er": an advert, often at the top of search results, promises a lockout from a low fixed price. The call goes to a national call centre, which sends whoever is nearest. On the doorstep, the price climbs, sometimes to several hundred pounds, often after drilling a lock that could have been opened.
To avoid it:
- Ask for the total price including call-out, labour, VAT and any parts, before anyone sets off.
- Ask for the locksmith's name and the business address. A local firm will happily give it.
- Ask whether they will try non-destructive entry first.
- Pay by card, and get a receipt with the business details.
Choosing a locksmith before you need one
The best time to find a locksmith is before you are standing outside in the rain. Save the number of a local firm with good reviews. Our ranked table of Glasgow locksmiths checks reviews, Master Locksmiths Association membership where we could confirm it, and company records.
If you rent, tell your landlord or letting agent. Some keep spare keys, and the tenancy may say who pays for lock changes.
Questions
Can the police or fire service let me in?
Not for a routine lockout. Call 999 only if there is an emergency, such as a child or vulnerable person locked inside, or a risk to life.
Will my home insurance pay for a lockout?
Some policies include home emergency or key cover. Check your policy before calling, because some insurers require you to use their own helpline.
Should a locksmith ask for ID?
A responsible locksmith will ask for proof that you live at the property, such as ID with the address, once they have let you in.
How long does a lockout take?
Many standard lockouts take under 30 minutes once the locksmith arrives. High-security locks can take longer.
Sources
- Checkatrade: locksmith prices (opens in a new tab)
- Master Locksmiths Association: advice and tips (opens in a new tab)
This guide is general information about Glasgow and Scotland, checked on 3 November 2026. Prices and rules change, so confirm anything important with the organisation named before you act.
