What to prepare before a locksmith visit: lock-outs, cylinders and quotes

Locksmith visits cover homes and shops that will not open, internal deadlatches, broken keys or cylinder replacement. HKHome requires the technician to explain the cause and the price outside the door before any work — no dismantle-first negotiation. The more precise your booking notes, the closer the fee band will be to the site.

Before you book, note the door type (timber, metal gate, glass), whether the problem is the outer lock or an internal latch, whether a spare key exists elsewhere, and whether the building allows night work. If someone is inside and the key was only left behind, check whether the door can be opened from inside without destructive entry.

For cylinder swaps or electronic locks, say any brand preference and whether the existing handle spacing must stay. Shop shutters or fire doors may follow extra rules and should be flagged on the ticket so a domestic lock plan is not assumed on arrival.

Safety: do not tell unverified callers that the flat has been empty for a long time; confirm the technician’s name and arrival window through HKHome support. After a cylinder change, update spare-key records left with management or family.

Fees vary by lock type, night urgency, floor and special tools. The quote-before-work rule still applies: drilling or a wider scope waits for your approval. For consumer checks on comparing service quotes, see the Consumer Council’s public education materials.