How to Start a Locksmith Business in the UK

Locksmithing is a skilled trade with steady demand — people lock themselves out at all hours, businesses need security upgrades, and property managers need reliable lock services. Starting a locksmith business requires proper training, a clean background, and good financial management.

Training and Qualifications

There is no legal requirement to hold a specific qualification, but reputable training is essential for competence and credibility:

• MLA Approved training courses (Master Locksmiths Association) — the gold standard in the UK
• City & Guilds locksmithing qualifications
• NCFE qualifications in locksmithing
• Manufacturer-specific training — for specific lock brands and electronic security systems

MLA membership is the most recognised credential in UK locksmithing. To become a full member, you must pass their examinations and meet their standards.

DBS Check

A DBS check (Disclosure and Barring Service) is not legally required but is strongly recommended and expected by customers. The MLA requires members to hold a current DBS check. It demonstrates trustworthiness — essential when you are entering people's homes and businesses.

Sole Trader or Limited Company?

Most locksmiths start as sole traders. Simple structure, low admin, and suits the business model perfectly. A limited company can be considered later if profits grow significantly.

Registering with HMRC

Register for Self Assessment within three months. VAT at £90,000 turnover. Most solo locksmiths will not reach this threshold immediately, but a busy business with both emergency and commercial work can grow quickly.

Insurance

• Public liability — essential. Covers damage to customer property.
• Professional indemnity — covers errors in your work (e.g., incorrect lock fitting)
• Tools and stock insurance — locksmith tools are expensive and a target for theft
• Vehicle insurance — commercial cover for your van
• Personal accident — covers income if you are injured

Expect £300–£800 per year for comprehensive cover.

Claimable Expenses

• Lock stock and parts — cylinders, padlocks, deadlocks, handles, hinges
• Specialist tools — lock picks, plug followers, key machines, decoders
• Vehicle costs — fuel, insurance, maintenance, or 45p per mile
• DBS check costs
• Training and qualifications
• MLA membership
• Insurance premiums
• Uniform and workwear
• Marketing — website, Google Ads (critical for emergency locksmiths), van livery, business cards
• Phone — essential for taking emergency calls
• Home office costs
• Accountancy fees

Accounted tracks your expenses automatically and keeps everything ready for your tax return.

Pricing

• Emergency lockout — £70–£150+ (higher outside business hours)
• Lock change — £60–£120 per lock
• Lock repair — £50–£100
• UPVC mechanism repair — £80–£150
• Security survey — £50–£100
• Commercial work — typically quoted per project

Emergency work commands higher prices, especially evenings and weekends. Be transparent about pricing — the locksmith industry suffers from rogue operators who overcharge, and clear pricing builds trust.

Building Your Business

• Google Ads and local SEO — most locksmith work comes from Google searches. Invest in being visible.
• Google My Business — essential for local search and reviews
• Reviews — encourage every customer to leave a Google review
• MLA membership — listed on the MLA directory, which many customers trust
• Partnerships — estate agents, property managers, letting agents
• Emergency availability — offering 24/7 service increases your earning potential

Bookkeeping Tips

• Separate business and personal finances
• Record all income — including cash for emergency callouts
• Track stock purchases — locks and parts are a significant expense
• Keep vehicle expense records — mileage or actual costs
• Set aside 25–30% of profits for tax

Accounted connects to your bank and uses AI to categorise everything. Built for UK sole traders.

Key Deadlines

• 31 January — Self Assessment and payment
• 31 July — second payment on account
• Quarterly — VAT if registered

Getting Started

Locksmithing offers a rewarding, varied career with steady demand. Get properly trained, join the MLA, register with HMRC, and keep your finances locked down from day one.

Ready to secure your business finances? Sign up for Accounted and let Penny handle the bookkeeping while you focus on your clients.