Guides

Plain answers to the lock questions people ask us most.

• Locked out of your home: what to do

  Locked out? What to check first, who to ring, and how to avoid being overcharged by a locksmith.

• How much does a locksmith cost in London?

  Typical locksmith prices for lockouts, lock changes and repairs in north-west London, and what makes a job cost more.

• Should you change the locks when you move house?

  Why changing the locks after moving is worth it, what to fit, and what renters need to check first.

• Anti-snap locks: what they are and whether you need one

  How lock snapping works on euro cylinders, how to check your lock's rating and what to upgrade to.

• Changing locks between tenants: a guide for landlords

  When and how landlords and letting agents should change locks between tenancies, and what not to do.