Local, mobile emergency and non-emergency Locksmith trusted by their customers.

Not all Locksmiths work in the same way as those mentioned in the news. Mackay Locksmiths Chester Road Sunderland prides itself on professionalism, honesty and integrity to ensure the customer that they have a reputable tradesman. I qualified as a Locksmith after completing industry leading training via a 3rd generation Master Locksmith and work hard to ensure the job is completed to an extremely high standard.

Rogue locksmiths often lure customers with bait-and-switch tactics, quoting very low prices (e.g., £39-£59) only to heavily inflate them upon arrival. 

These are often national, call-centre operations without local vetting or proper qualifications, resulting in a 25% increase in scams as of 2024.

Frequent damage to doors due to inadequate levels of training, fake qualifications shown on websites, no legal understanding and poor customer service skills are common with any inadequately trained Locksmith.

Key Rogue Locksmith Facts & Red Flags:

1. Bait and Switch Pricing: They advertise an unrealistic low price to get the job, then hike up the cost once they arrive.

2. Call Centre Fronts: They often act as a national company, not a local locksmith, directing calls through central hubs rather than directly to a technician.

3. No Proper Identification/Vetting: Rogue locksmiths may not be vetted, CRB/DBS checked, or qualified, often using false accreditation claims.

4. Intimidation Tactics: They may use high-pressure, intimidating tactics to force immediate payment, often in cash.

5. Destructive Methods: They may insist on drilling the lock immediately rather than using non-destructive entry methods, often damaging the door.

6. Fake Reviews: Many rogue companies use fake 5-star reviews to appear reputable online.

7. False "Police Approved" Claims: They may claim to be "Police Recommended" or "Approved," which is rarely true.

8. Common Targets: They exploit people in stressful, emergency, lockout situations. 

How to Avoid Them:

1. Use accredited professionals like those vetted by the Master Locksmiths Association, which requires strict, independent vetting. 

2. Ask for the company name and confirm they are local.

3. Get a clear, written quote before work begins. Do not pay in full until the work has been completed and you are happy with the work carried out.

Please feel free to contact Mackay Locksmiths 24/7 if you have any questions or require any further information.

Face the future with fortitude 🔐