Locksmith in South Dublin

Most residential locksmiths now fit smart and keypad locks and can advise which models fit your door and existing cylinder or deadbolt prep. Installation on a standard door is quick; expect extra cost if the door needs fresh drilling or the smart lock must integrate with an existing high-security cylinder. Ask whether the quote covers setup and pairing, not just physical fitting.

The classic scam: a call centre advertises a rock-bottom price online, dispatches an unqualified operator who drills your lock unnecessarily, then charges several times the quote for 'parts and labour'. Protection: get the all-in price and the company's physical address before dispatch, prefer locksmiths with a verifiable local address and reviews, ask them to attempt non-destructive entry first, and refuse work if the on-site price suddenly balloons.

Usually yes. A skilled locksmith attempts non-destructive entry first — picking, bypassing, or slipping the latch — which succeeds on most standard residential locks. Drilling is a last resort for high-security cylinders or damaged locks, and then the cylinder must be replaced. Be wary of anyone who reaches for the drill immediately on an ordinary door; it is a classic sign of an untrained operator inflating the bill.

Locksmith pricing has three parts: a call-out or trip fee, labour for the job itself, and parts (new locks, cylinders, or keys). Simple jobs like a lockout or single lock change are usually quoted as a flat rate. Time of day matters most — evening, weekend, and holiday call-outs typically cost 50-100% more than business hours. Always get the all-in price by phone before the locksmith is dispatched.

Four things: the call-out/travel fee (and whether it is waived if you proceed), labour for the specific job, parts at stated prices, and any after-hours surcharge. Get it before dispatch, ideally by text or email. On arrival, confirm the price still stands before work starts. Reputable locksmiths quote firm prices for standard jobs; vague 'from' pricing that firms up only after the door is open is the pattern to avoid.

Ask for their PSA licence number and check it against the Private Security Authority's public register of licensed contractors. Operating as a locksmith without a PSA licence is an offence in Ireland, so a legitimate locksmith will volunteer the number readily — hesitation is disqualifying.

Daytime call-outs typically run €50-€110, a standard daytime lockout €80-€190 all-in, and out-of-hours emergencies commonly €120-€300. Dublin prices sit at the top of the range. Get the total price and PSA number in the same phone call before dispatch.