Locksmith & Car Key Replacement Services in Kent

Locksmiths are highly skilled local tradespeople who not only work on a variety of different locks but are also security specialists whose expertise can significantly improve the security of your home in Kent.

What Is the Master Locksmiths Association in the UK?

Seeking a locksmith who the Master Locksmiths Association has accredited is a great way to ensure that you receive good service from a locksmith. The association is responsible for the regulation of the industry and the safety of members of the public. The association also helps consumers avoid being scammed by rogue locksmiths.

Regulation Of The Locksmith Industry

Considering the number of complaints and incidents in the locksmith industry, the government decided to look into the issue. This has been done through several measures. The first is through the introduction of official government locksmith courses, which are available at colleges and locksmith training centres. The other measure is the introduction of the logo for the Master Locksmiths Association which can be worn by successful applicants to display.

The Master Locksmiths Association is one of the groups promoting industry regulation. They have also introduced their licensing scheme, allowing locksmiths to show that they meet the required standards. The MLA also does several other measures, including Disclosure and Barring Service checks on members. Another measure is the introduction of a public locksmiths registry, this will give consumers confidence in the security industry.

The Master Locksmiths Association has also rolled out a licensing scheme for auto locksmiths. This is a great way to ensure that a locksmith is a bona fide professional. The scheme is free to join and allows members to display the MLA Approved Company logo. The locksmith industry is expected to continue growing in the United Kingdom. However, this growth will slow down over the next five years due to a decline in downstream construction markets. A new locksmith qualification, a six-month course, was also introduced. This course has both written and practical parts. This is the first step towards regulating the locksmith industry.

Accreditation Scheme

Whether you are just starting in the locksmith industry or have already worked for a few years, you can increase your professional opportunities by earning certifications. Certification will demonstrate your expertise and help you find the best solution to a specific situation. These certifications are also a great way to increase your value to employers. The Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) is the largest trade association for locksmiths in the UK. It promotes the ethical practice of locksmiths and sets standards for materials, practice, and conduct. The MLA also runs the largest locksmith exhibition in Europe, the MLA Expo.

To earn a Registered Locksmith (RL), you must complete twelve eight-hour courses and pass a mandatory exam. You also must pass two elective courses. To earn a Master Locksmith (CML) certification, you must complete nine electives. Alternatively, you can complete a five or six-day introductory locksmithing course and pass a mandatory exam.

You can also earn a Certified Master Automotive Locksmith (CMAL) certification. This level is the highest level of automotive locksmith certification. To achieve this certification, you must pass a course and exam that covers vehicle key duplication and advanced automotive locksmithing techniques. Another certification is the Certified Professional SafeTech (CPS). This level prepares you to become an advanced safe technician. To upgrade your safe locksmith certification, you must pass an exam with 70% or more.

Overcharging By Unscrupulous Locksmiths

Earlier this year, the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) backed a BBC1 programme called Rogue Traders, which investigated unscrupulous locksmiths. The programme highlighted how unscrupulous tradespeople often overcharge customers and do substandard work. The MLA is the largest trade body representing locksmiths in the UK. The association is calling for industry regulation to protect householders from unscrupulous tradespeople. It has also launched an accreditation scheme to ensure approved locksmiths are qualified. The Secured by Design initiative supports the scheme, which sets the gold standard for security products. The Master Locksmiths Association has launched a free service, offering advice to consumers about hiring locksmiths and spotting scams. Following an investigation into fraudulent activity within the industry, the association has also issued a stark warning. The MLA surveyed its members and found that overcharging by rogue locksmiths is a problem in the UK. Rogues overcharge customers by £200 or more and often do substandard work. A survey carried out by the MLA survey showed that 66% of its members have dealt with a rogue locksmith.

The association also revealed that consumers should be wary of locksmiths who quote a meager price for the job. Often, these cheap locksmiths will quote for a job that is more complicated than it needs to be and then overcharge after the job is done. The Master Locksmiths Association has long called for the industry to be regulated, like the gas and electricity industries. It is also a good idea to check the price of a locksmith on its website to avoid getting ripped off.

The Master Locksmiths Association has launched an accreditation scheme to help consumers identify a vetted and qualified locksmith. The website for the association also offers tips for hiring a qualified locksmith and information on typical average prices for everyday jobs. The Master Locksmiths Association has also released a list of five tips for protecting your home. The five tips include:

  • Using a DBS check.
  • Calling a reputable locksmith.
  • Avoiding rogue locksmiths.
  • Ensuring home security is up to scratch and spotting a scam.

Rogue Locksmiths Are Putting the Safety Of The Public at Risk

According to the Office for National Statistics, almost one in four householders had their doors broken into last year. Rogue locksmiths are putting the safety of householders at risk, according to the Master Locksmiths Association. They have urged the government to take action to protect householders from rogue traders. Rogue locksmiths often work underqualified and do a poor job. They may overcharge customers, retain keys to locks they have installed and display threatening behaviour. They also may use a bait-and-switch tactic, quoting a low price and then claiming additional work that was not necessary.

The Master Locksmiths Association has launched a campaign to protect householders from rogue locksmiths. It is calling for greater public awareness about the need to hire a qualified locksmith. A recent survey of MLA members revealed that two-thirds of members had been called out to bogus jobs in the last year. Rogue locksmiths have been responsible for hundreds of botched jobs. It is recognised by the Police and the Home Office. It has a robust accreditation and certification scheme and provides guidance to consumers on spotting scams. The association is also a member of the approved locksmith panel for BSI.

The MLA predicts that unethical activity within the locksmith industry will likely rise in the coming year. It has recently published research into bogus locksmiths based on feedback from 100 members. The association has also been called out 500 times in the last year, showing that households are still vulnerable to rogue traders. The Master Locksmiths Association has urged the government to take action to protect consumers from rogue traders and regulate the industry. It also calls on the police to help protect consumers from rogue locksmiths.

Things To Look Out For When Hiring a Locksmith

Whether you are looking for a locksmith or you have already hired one, you are going to want to be aware of some of the red flags you should be on the lookout for. These red flags can help you avoid getting scammed and get the help that you need.

Always Ask For A Quote

Whether you need to have a new set of keys made or rekey your locks, it is essential to ask for a quote when hiring a locksmith. This will allow you to determine which locksmith will best fit your needs. It would be best if you asked for a quote from several locksmiths to compare prices and services. Many locksmiths charge a flat rate, while others charge by the hour, and the latter is more expensive.

Before hiring a locksmith, you should ensure they are licensed and insured. Also, you should check their references. If they have them, then it is likely that you will receive good service. Another thing to consider is the type of lock you have. Some locks require more expensive replacement parts and a higher up-front cost. You should also ensure you get a price for any security features you want to be installed. A good locksmith will answer all your questions and provide you with references.

You should also ask the locksmith if they provide extra locks. This will add additional protection to your home. It is also essential to make sure that you are not charged for extra time. It may take longer than you think to rekey your locks, so do not be tempted to get charged for spare time if you are not comfortable. Locksmiths use heavy equipment and specialized tools to perform their services. You should never sign a blank invoice. Also, make sure the locksmith has an identification card and is insured. Locksmiths charge different prices based on the complexity of the lock and the amount of time they need to work on it. The price will also vary based on the location. It would help if you also asked the locksmith for additional fees for things like travel and service call minimums. You can also check the website for the business to see how long they have been in business and what other services they provide. You can also ask your friends and neighbours for referrals.

Look for a Kent Based Locksmith

Whether you are looking for a locksmith to get you back into your car or home, there are some things to consider before committing to a service provider. It is also important to know that not all locksmiths are created equal; some are scams, while others are honest. The MLA has provided some tips to help you determine whether a locksmith is legitimate or a rip-off. First, you should look for a local locksmith address. Second, you should check the website for the company. Third, you should ask for an estimate. And finally, you should make sure you get the price in writing. Make sure you know what the estimate includes, including tools and mileage. If the estimate is too good to be true, it probably is.

The MLA also recommends that you look at reviews before committing to a locksmith. You can also get recommendations from friends, family, insurance agents, and other sources. While you should not expect to get the same quality service from all locksmiths, it is important to look for a locally available locksmith. Sometimes, a locksmith may only work from their van, resulting in travel expenses. A local locksmith is more accountable for their work than a mobile locksmith. To ensure the locksmith you are researching is legitimate and local, look for the same address, a business phone number, and an actual logo on the van or website. It would help if you also asked questions about the process. Another good way to find a local locksmith is to look at the phone book. Some locksmiths have several listings, and other businesses own others. You may find a local locksmith on Google Maps. You may contact your local consumer protection association if you still need help determining if a locksmith is trustworthy. In addition, you should consider asking the locksmith for an invoice and a written estimate. Finally, get an estimate of travel time and after-hours fees.

Ask For Their Business Card

Getting a business card is a great way to confirm that the locksmith you are dealing with is legitimate. The card should contain the name of the locksmith as well as their business name, address, phone number, and website. If the locksmith does not have a business card, the locksmith is likely operating out of their vehicle. Locksmith businesses usually advertise by using signs on their trucks or vans. In addition to putting signs on their vehicles, locksmiths often advertise by listing their street address and phone number in local phone books.

Before paying for any locksmith services, it is essential to get an itemized invoice. This invoice should include the labour cost, parts, mileage, and other fees. The invoice should also list emergency service costs, replacement locks, and additional charges. Depending on the fee of the locksmith, you may be required to submit the invoice to your insurance provider. If you need to contact the locksmith again after a few days, follow up by calling the phone number for the business on the business card. Reading the fine print on any contract you sign would be best. Obtaining itemized invoices and receipts from a locksmith will help you understand how much money you are expected to pay.

You may be required to pay a base fee to the locksmith before they arrive at your home. This may include a minimum service charge, a night-time fee, or a fee for a call that takes place after hours. Locksmith businesses that are licensed and bonded should be able to provide you with a written estimate. The locksmith should not charge you more than the estimate unless the work is done in an emergency situation. The locksmith should also provide an itemized invoice that lists the amount charged and the services provided. The locksmith should also provide you with a receipt for parts and labour. The receipt should cover any mileage that was charged, as well as the cost of the administration call.

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