How much does a locksmith cost? It’s not a simple question to answer because locksmiths can do much more than you might expect. Their costs will depend on the type of job, the time of day, the complexity of the task, and other factors.
Expect a locksmith in South Africa to cost anywhere from R250 to R3300, depending on the job. Small jobs like rekeying a lock and providing two keys can cost as little as R250 to R350. After-hours or emergency services can cost anywhere from R2200 to R3300, depending on the locksmith. Our clients usually compare us with GP Locksmith.
Here’s what you need to know about locksmiths, the tasks they do, and their costs:
- What can a locksmith do?
- Choosing a locksmith
- How much does a locksmith cost?
What Can a Locksmith Do?
When we think of locksmiths, we often think of two things: a locksmith might work in a stall in a shopping centre and make new keys, or we might need a locksmith’s emergency services when we get locked out of our home or car. In reality, skilled locksmiths can do much more than these tasks.
- They can rekey an existing lock, which is a great idea if you’ve moved to a new home.
- Locksmiths can install door handles or deadbolts on existing doors.
- If a key has broken off in a lock, a locksmith can remove the broken key for you.
- Many locksmiths install keyless and electronic lock systems.
- Locksmiths also handle car locks and ignitions.
These are some of the more basic tasks most locksmiths can do. Many go beyond these basic services and may also:
- Install a security door for you.
- Service a safe or security system.
- Install locks on windows.
- Install locks on garage doors or sheds.
Emergency services are part of a locksmith’s trade. A good locksmith can come to your home or car anytime to help you gain access. They can also provide new keys or do whatever it takes to allow you access to your home, car, or business property.
A locksmith will come to your property in a van fully equipped with everything needed to get the job done, including both tasks done during normal working hours and emergency services. If it’s an emergency, they can give you access to your home, business, or car and fix the problem on the spot. The only exception is if you need a new lock and door handle. They might not have the right parts on hand, but they can provide secure entry and complete the job later.
Locksmiths can also examine all the locks in your home or business and provide recommendations on how to increase security. They might suggest installing security doors, deadbolts, locks on windows, locks on garages, or other locks as needed. They will provide a quote for the cost, and you can choose which items you need. As an amateur, you might overlook some important aspects of your locks. Indoor locks don’t need to meet the standards set for outdoor locks exposed to weather conditions. An experienced locksmith will ensure the locks they install meet or exceed South African standards.
How Much Does a Locksmith Cost?
The average annual salary of locksmiths in South Africa is R610,000. The cost of their services depends on several factors. During regular working hours, you will get a cheaper rate. Some typical costs during normal working hours might be:
- R1000 for two door locks
- R2000 to rekey all seven locks
- R500 to reinstall a round push button lock that had been installed incorrectly
- R2000 to fit an external door and install locks
These are approximate costs and might not include the call-out rate of around R650 to R1100. When you consider that a locksmith has to come to your home and do the work, the prices above are quite reasonable, considering travel time.
Typically, locksmiths may charge (excluding the call-out fee):
- Rekeying a lock costs R250 to R350 plus GST.
- Fitting a new two-lever lock to a door costs R200.
- Lock repairs might cost R500 per hour for labour alone.
After-hours work can be more expensive. Some typical after-hours charges might be:
- R1750 for services before or after normal working hours.
- R2200 for emergency services from 9:00 p.m. to midnight.
- R3300 for services after midnight.
Locksmith costs can vary widely depending on the complexity of the job. For example, you might pay:
- Between R300 and R3000 to change locks, depending on the type of lock.
- R250 to R350 per door to rekey a lock without changing the pins.
- R250 to R500 if the locksmith rearranges the pins in the lock so the old key cannot work.
These costs do not include the call-out fee if the locksmith comes to your home.
Locksmith Pricing Table
| Locksmith Services Price List | Minimum | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| Auto Lockout | R500 | R1500 |
| House Lockout | R500 | R1500 |
| Car key replacement with new remote and programming (no transponder) | R1500 | R2500 |
| Car key replacement plus new transponder | R2000 | R3500 |
| Car key replacement (no transponder) | R850 | R2000 |
| Car key replacement (including coding & new remote) | R2300 | R4500 |
| Car key replacement (includes coding & remote) | R1500 | R2500 |
| Smart car key replacement | R2000 | R3500 |
| Repair of key stuck in lock | R650 | R1000 |
| General door key replacement | R500 | R700 |
