Most people call a locksmith for the first time in a stressful situation — locked out, a key snapped, a door that won't close. The uncertainty of not knowing what to expect makes the situation feel worse than it needs to be. This post walks through exactly what happens when you call AMP Lock, from the first contact to the end of the job, so you know what to expect at every stage.
When You Call or WhatsApp
The first thing that happens when you contact us is a conversation about what's going on. We'll ask you a few basic questions — what's the problem, what type of door and lock, and where you are. This isn't bureaucracy: the answers determine whether we can help, what we're likely to need to bring, and how quickly we can realistically get to you.
We'll give you a price at this stage. For most standard jobs — a lockout, a cylinder change, a mechanism replacement — we can quote accurately over the phone. We'll break it down: labour is £65 per hour with a one-hour minimum, and if any parts are needed, we'll tell you what they are and what they cost before anyone sets off.
If you're happy with the price, we agree a time. If it's an emergency, we head straight to you. If it's a planned job, we arrange a time that suits you.
If you WhatsApp a photo of the lock or door, we can often assess the situation in advance — which means we arrive with the right part already in the van and avoid the possibility of a second visit.
What Happens on Arrival
On arrival, the first thing is a proper look at the situation. Even if we've discussed the problem on the phone, seeing the door and lock in person takes about 30 seconds and confirms exactly what's needed. For lockouts, we assess which entry method is most appropriate. For mechanism issues, we check alignment, test the handle, and look at the mechanism from the door edge.
If anything changes from what was discussed on the phone — if it turns out the job is more involved, or a different part is needed — we stop and explain before doing anything further. You always have the opportunity to agree or decline before any additional work or cost is incurred.
The Job Itself
For lockouts, the aim is always non-destructive entry — opening the door without damaging the lock or frame. The method depends on the lock type and its condition. For a standard euro cylinder on a uPVC door, non-destructive entry is possible in the vast majority of cases. For a high-security anti-snap cylinder, it may take longer and require different techniques, but the same principle applies.
If drilling becomes necessary — which is rare — it will only happen after we've explained why it's needed and you've agreed to it. Drilling is never the first option.
For replacement work — cylinders, gearboxes, mechanisms — we carry out the job, then test everything thoroughly before we leave. Every locking point is checked, the key is tested in both directions, and the door is opened and closed multiple times to confirm it's working correctly. We don't leave until it does.
On proving identity during a lockout: A responsible locksmith will ask for some form of identification and evidence that you live at the property before carrying out a lockout. This isn't awkward or unusual — it's standard practice. A driving licence, a piece of post addressed to you, or a bank card showing your address are all typically sufficient. If a locksmith carries out a lockout without asking for any ID, that's worth noting.
Payment
Payment is taken at the end of the job. We accept cash and bank transfer — no card machine, so if you're planning to pay by card, it's worth mentioning when you call. The amount is exactly what was quoted — no additional charges added on arrival, no unexpected extras.
After the Job
We take away any old parts and leave the area tidy. If you have any questions about the work carried out — how to operate a new lock, what to do if something feels different, anything at all — ask while we're there. We're happy to explain and demonstrate before we leave.
If you've had a lock or mechanism replaced, it's covered by our guarantee. If anything isn't right, contact us and we'll come back and sort it.
Ready to Call?
If you need a locksmith in Stourbridge, Halesowen, Dudley, Kingswinford, Hagley, Kidderminster, or anywhere in the surrounding area, call or WhatsApp on 07961 169 681. We'll answer your questions, give you a clear price, and let you decide whether to go ahead — no pressure, no surprises.