How Long Does a Locksmith Take to Change a Lock?
How Long Does a Lock Change Actually Take?
It is one of the most common questions people ask before booking a locksmith. The honest answer is: it depends. A straightforward euro cylinder swap on a uPVC door can be completed in as little as 20 minutes. A mortice lock change on a timber door, or a full multi-point lock replacement, may take an hour or more.
As a general guide, most standard residential lock changes take between 20 and 60 minutes.
Factors That Affect How Long a Lock Change Takes
1. Type of Lock
The lock type is the single biggest variable:
- Euro cylinder (uPVC or composite door) - 20-30 minutes for a standard replacement
- Mortice deadlock (timber door) - 30-60 minutes, depending on whether the door pocket needs any adjustment
- Multi-point locking system - 45-90 minutes for a full replacement
- Smart lock installation - 30-60 minutes, plus time for pairing and configuration
- Padlock or rim lock - Often 15-20 minutes
2. Skill and Experience of the Locksmith
An experienced locksmith who has fitted hundreds of locks will work faster and more accurately than a less experienced one. They also anticipate complications - a door that is slightly out of alignment, a frame that has shifted - and address them efficiently without the job becoming a half-day project.
3. Condition of the Door and Frame
Old, warped, or damaged doors require additional work. If the lock pocket needs chiselling out to new dimensions, or the door needs planing to close properly, this adds time. In such cases, it is always worth having the work done correctly rather than rushing it.
4. Availability of Parts
A locksmith who arrives with the correct replacement lock in stock completes the job in a single visit. If a specific lock needs to be ordered, there may be a delay. Reputable locksmiths carry a wide range of cylinders and common lock types in their van to avoid this.
What Happens During an Emergency Lock Change?
Emergency locksmiths - those called out at short notice, often after a break-in or lockout - typically aim to arrive within 30-60 minutes of your call. They prioritise restoring your security as quickly as possible.
In a post-break-in scenario, a good emergency locksmith will:
- Assess the damage to the door and frame
- Secure the property immediately if the door has been forced
- Replace or upgrade the damaged lock
- Advise on any additional security improvements
Emergency call-outs attract higher rates due to the out-of-hours or urgent nature of the work - expect to pay a premium compared to a pre-booked appointment.
Typical Locksmith Prices for Lock Changes in the UK
| Service | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|
| Euro cylinder replacement (parts included) | £60-£120 |
| Mortice lock replacement | £100-£180 |
| Multi-point lock replacement | £120-£250 |
| Emergency call-out (out of hours) | Additional £50-£100 |
| Smart lock installation | £100-£200 |
Prices vary by location, time of day, and lock quality. Always get a full quote - including parts and VAT - before work begins.
Why You Should Always Use a Professional
DIY lock changes are possible for confident, experienced homeowners, but there are compelling reasons to use a professional:
- Precise measurements - An incorrectly sized cylinder compromises security and can damage the lock body
- Correct installation - A poorly aligned cylinder is easier to attack and wears out faster
- Security expertise - A professional locksmith can assess whether your current lock specification is adequate for your property and risk level
- Time saving - What might take you two hours, a locksmith completes in 30 minutes with the right tools
Quality and security should never be sacrificed for the sake of saving an hour of labour.
Book a Lock Change with City Locksmith London
City Locksmith London provides fast, professional lock changes across London - from a quick cylinder swap to a full security upgrade. We carry a wide range of anti-snap cylinders and quality lock hardware, so most jobs are completed on the same visit.