Why You Shouldn’t Try to Fix a Broken Lock Yourself

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you discover that one of your locks is broken or not functioning properly? It’s a common problem that many homeowners and renters face here in the Essex area.

Your first response, like so many people, might be to jump on YouTube and see if you can find a quick DIY solution. While it may be tempting to try and fix a broken lock mechanism yourself, it’s important to understand the potential risks and dangers associated with attempting a repair without the proper tools or training.

The Risk of Causing Further Damage

It’s easier than you think to accidentally break off a key or damage the internal workings of the lock, making it even more difficult or impossible to open. In addition, some locks, particularly sophisticated modern ones, require specific tools or equipment that you may not have access to or know how to use.

The risk of causing further damage isn’t just limited to the lock itself. Your efforts could cause damage to the door, hinges, or other components of your home’s security system. This can ultimately end up costing you more money in repairs and replacements in the long run.

The Importance of Proper Tools and Training

Fixing a broken lock requires more than just a simple twist or turn. Most locks are complex mechanisms that require specific tools and knowledge to repair. That’s where a team like Lockout247 in Essex comes in. We’ve got several decades of experience and keep up to date with all the latest advancements in technology.

Professional locksmiths undergo extensive training and are familiar with the different types of locks and their internal workings, allowing them to diagnose and repair the issue with ease rather than trusting a DIY video online. Hiring a professional locksmith means one thing is 100% certain –  you can be confident that your lock will be fixed properly and efficiently, without the risk of causing further damage.

Any professional locksmith worth their salt can also offer valuable advice on the best type of lock for your specific needs if you require a replacement, as well as provide tips on how to properly maintain and care for it to prevent future issues from arising.

Security Risks and Vulnerabilities

In addition to the risk of causing further damage, attempting to fix a broken lock yourself can also leave your home or business vulnerable to security risks. One of the main concerns is that an improperly repaired lock may not function correctly, leaving you more openly exposed to potential break-ins or theft.

Locks are an essential part of your home or business’s security system, of course, and any issues with them should be taken seriously. At Lockout247, we pride ourselves on providing a quick response and we don’t usually leave without having fixed the problem for you.

The bottom line is that the security risks and vulnerabilities associated with attempting to fix a lock yourself are simply not worth the risk. By entrusting your lock repairs to a professional locksmith, you can be confident that your security is being taken seriously and that your locks are functioning properly.

Legal Implications of DIY Lock Repair

Attempting to fix a lock yourself may have legal implications as well. In some cases, tampering with a lock or attempting to repair could, for example, go against the terms of your insurance policy. That could mean if you suffer from a burglary, that the insurance company may deem that you have acted irresponsibly by not getting the lock fixed properly.

If you rent a property and you don’t contact your landlord to say there is a problem and try to fix the issue yourself, you could be open to paying for repairs if any damage is caused or you are later the victim of a burglary.

Are Locksmiths Licenced in the UK?

Unlike many countries like the USA, you don’t need to have a licence to act as a locksmith here in the UK. That, of course, means that anyone can set themselves up and call themselves a locksmith. It’s important that when you are thinking about hiring this type of service you do a little due diligence. Check their website and contact details and whether they’re on sites like Checkatrade.com and what the reviews are.

When to Call a Professional Locksmith

Knowing when to call a professional locksmith is key to ensuring the security and functionality of your locks, whether it’s for the home or you run a business. In general, it’s best to call a professional whenever you encounter any issues with your locks, including broken keys, jammed locks, or difficulty turning the key. If you’ve been broken into and the locks have been damaged, of course, it’s critical to have them replaced as soon as possible.

If you notice any signs of wear and tear on your locks or if you are concerned about the security of your property, then the good news is that we’re always on hand to give advice. Our locksmiths can carry out a security audit and offer advice on the best type of lock for your needs, as well as install additional security features such as deadbolts.

Other situations where you may need our services include if you have recently moved into a new home or if you have lost your keys and need a replacement set. Our locksmiths can help rekey your locks or provide you with new keys, ensuring that your property is secure and accessible only to those who are authorized to enter.

Why Call Lockout247

Lockout247 is a family-owned business that has been operating across the whole of the Essex area for the last couple of decades. We’ve helped with lock issues from Basildon and Colchester to Epping and Upminster and everywhere in between. We pride ourselves on a fast response and a no-nonsense approach.

You may only need a professional locksmith once or twice in your lifetime, if at all. It always pays to have their number on speed dial when you most need it. Add our number to your directory today.