Lock-Update-in-Northwest-London

Lock Update in Northwest London

As technology advances, so do burglars. With today’s advanced lock technology, you’d think that your deadbolt is 100% safe from burglars. We’re here to tell you that that assumption is false.

Burglars adapt to technology. No matter how advanced the lock is, burglars will find their way around it. That’s why it’s so incredibly important to update those old locks on your doors. It’s time to swap out those rustic Victorian-era locks for a smart lock.

That’s exactly what a recent client of ours did in Northwest London:

The Situation

A client of ours in Northwest London contacted us because he recently became uncomfortable with the lack of security his current locks offered. His neighbor had just experienced a burglary and he was not sure his current locks would deter a burglar of any kind.

We arrived at the home and assessed the current lock situation. The client currently had a basic lock standard lock. And although this lock offers a good amount of security, there are a variety of other locks available that provide higher security.

We removed the basic lock and replaced it with a high-security Mul-T Lock on top and a code lock on the bottom. This code lock removes the need for a key and heightens security of the home.

Mission: Lock Update – Replace basic lock with higher security lock

Lock: High-Security Mul-T Lock

Phone Call Date & Time: Tuesday, February 5th 3:35 pm

Arrival Time: 4:09pm

Work Time: 33 minutes

Why You Should Install An Updated Code Lock

If your locks are old and worn down, your chances of a burglar gaining access to your home are heightened. There’s a simple solution to this. Just update your old locks.

Updating your locks regularly is crucial to ensuring the security of your home. And since there’s a variety of lock options available today, code locks are a convenient option. Code locks remove the need for a key. You’ll never worry about losing your key again!

For help updating your locks in the Greater London area, reach out to 24/7 London Locksmith today!

Upcoming-2019-Lock-Technology-Advancements

Upcoming 2019 Lock Technology Advancements

For a while now, we’ve been using technology for surveillance systems, remote monitoring, smart cameras, and more, but until recently we relied on our simple keys and locks to keep our homes safe from intruders.

However, 2019 is bringing many changes to the world of door locks and home security.

Smart Door Locks

Smart door locks use cutting-edge technology to keep us secure. Most of them can connect to your home automation system and can connect with your other home appliances and devices, such as Alexa for example.

Most smart locks offer phone apps that have a variety of different features. Some let you add permanent and temporary users. Some allow you to set an access schedule for specific dates or times.

So, be sure to check out some smart door locks that can make your life easier in 2019.

Keypad Smart Locks

For a keypad smart lock, you need a pin code to unlock it. With some, you can add different pin codes for different residents of your home so that you can know who’s coming and going and at what times.

You can also choose a combination lock that uses keypads and deadbolts, where you can add a knob or a handle-set.

Wireless Smart Locks

Though they usually come with a bit of a higher price tag than cylindrical locks, mortise locks offer more durability, strength, and resistance. They have stronger construction and components, and a convenient feature that releases both the latch and the deadbolt at the same time when you turn the lever.

They also come in a variety of different styles to fit any aesthetic.

You can get these locks for about $35 on Amazon.

Keyless Locks

Wireless locks can detect your presence by using Bluetooth in your phone or a key fob. They offer you higher security by unlocking your door when you’re in the proximity of your smart door lock.

With a key fob, you don’t need apps and you don’t need a smartphone. You simply touch the lock with your key fob and the door will unlock.

A Bluetooth-enabled lock, however, senses when you and your phone are within a specified distance from the door, then it automatically unlocks.

Wi-Fi smart locks have a few features that Bluetooth-enabled locks and key fobs don’t. For example, you can check in real-time whether your door is locked or not.

Geofencing

With wireless smart locks, you have the feature of geofencing. This means that you can set up a perimeter around your house that uses your phone’s location services to let the smart lock know where you are.

Once you are outside the perimeter, the door will automatically lock, and you never again have to worry about whether you’ve locked the door or not.

Geofencing

With wireless smart locks, you have the feature of geofencing. This means that you can set up a perimeter around your house that uses your phone’s location services to let the smart lock know where you are.

Once you are outside the perimeter, the door will automatically lock, and you never again have to worry about whether you’ve locked the door or not.

Fingerprint Lock

As the name implies, to open the door with this type of lock, all you need is your fingerprint. This offers you high security, as all fingerprints are unique and very difficult to fake.

Smart locks offer you high security and peace of mind. They will make your life easier and much more convenient. For assistance installing your smart lock, reach out to 24/7 London Locksmith today!

Best-Locks-for-Your-Money

Best Locks for Your Money

Door locks are one of the most important parts of our homes and are designed to keep us and our homes safe.

It can be confusing, however, trying to find the right door lock for you. They vary in design, style, and most importantly – cost. So, let’s dive into the most common and most durable types of locks that won’t break your budget.

Deadbolt

Deadbolts are the most commonly used locks on most residential homes, and they offer superior security. You can choose whether you want the lock to be a single, or double cylinder.

The difference between the two is in how you unlock it from the inside. Your single cylinder deadbolt can be opened with a key from the outside and the double cylinder requires a key from both sides.

You can get a high-quality deadbolt lock online for about $25.

Lockset

A good lockset doesn’t have to put a dent in your budget. These are medium security locks but don’t let that deter you. They’re more than secure enough for your house or apartment.

They are often combined with a deadbolt and have 2 doorknobs – one that can be unlocked from the inside with a button, and one that needs a key to be unlocked from the outside.

You can get a quality lockset for about $60.

Mortise Locks

Though they usually come with a bit of a higher price tag than cylindrical locks, mortise locks offer more durability, strength, and resistance. They have stronger construction and components, and a convenient feature that releases both the latch and the deadbolt at the same time when you turn the lever.

They also come in a variety of different styles to fit any aesthetic.

You can get these locks for about $35 on Amazon.

Keyless Locks

Keyless locks offer you advanced security, and you can most often find them on cars. However, they are becoming more popular with home and business owners.

You can open keyless locks in a few different ways: by using an electronic card reader, wirelessly with a remote, or by a keypad.

Some keyless door locks are compatible with garage door openers and can be connected to your home security system.

They come at a higher price point, but you can find high-quality keyless locks for under $200. Your initial investment will be worth it.

Home security is nothing to be taken for granted, and it starts with the basics – door locks. Each lock has its pros and cons, so do your research before you make your choice. For help with your new lock installation, reach out to24/7 London Locksmith today!

cheapLocksmith

Should I Use a Cheap Locksmith?

Locksmith services are expensive, but only if you think of them as one-off security solutions. To those who understand why installing top-notch locks and deadbolts pays off, the industry pricing makes perfect sense. As in any other industry, the price tag here is a guarantee of quality and endurance, but also a warranty for your peace of mind.

The next time you ask yourself whether you should go with a cheap locksmith, consider this:

Lower Prices Equal Less Quality

Having a cheap lock on an expensive house is a burglary waiting to happen. It is as simple as that. Even so, most house owners opt for hardware store locks or go for inexpensive and unlicensed locksmiths. Their thought process is usually the same – “They just don’t make them as they used too, so why spend anything more than necessary?”

Modern-day locks and deadbolts are actually far more reliable than in the good old days, but only when they are bought from a trusted locksmith shop. Unlike hardware store products, they are made of materials that are certain to withstand the test of time. Go for a cheaper solution, and you’ll end up risking the safety of your precious belongings.

Having a cheap lock on an expensive house is a burglary waiting to happen. It is as simple as that. Even so, most house owners opt for hardware store locks or go for inexpensive and unlicensed locksmiths. Their thought process is usually the same – “They just don’t make them as they used too, so why spend anything more than necessary?”

Modern-day locks and deadbolts are actually far more reliable than in the good old days, but only when they are bought from a trusted locksmith shop. Unlike hardware store products, they are made of materials that are certain to withstand the test of time. Go for a cheaper solution, and you’ll end up risking the safety of your precious belongings.

Locksmith Services Are Complex

No, not everyone can do what a licensed locksmith does. After all, it takes a certain skill set and a fair amount of experience to master this delicate craft. Don’t you think that this kind of expertise should amount to something too? It costs real money to run a reputable business, which is why quality, commitment, and continuous improvement all come at a price.

Attention to Detail Comes at Cost

Attention to detail comes at a price too. It’s one of the main requirements for being a trustworthy locksmith – not only are we as service providers aiming to help our clients choose the highest-quality security systems for their households, but we’re also responsible for installing them without leaving any scratches or making any damages to their expensive doors.

Higher Prices Ensure Sturdiness

Finally, higher-priced locksmith services most of the time guarantee longevity. Being made from plastic and die-cast, cheap locks and deadbolts are doomed to quickly deteriorate even if nobody tries to break them first. And need we mention how easy it is to manipulate and pick these low-quality locking systems? Most of them can be opened in under a minute or two.

When you take product sturdiness into account, the math is really simple – the more you pay your locksmith, the longer you’ll stay protected. Try not to underestimate the importance of having a foolproof locking system – it serves not only to safeguard your valuable assets but also to protect your family. And you can hardly put a price on that.

Locksmith services are expensive, but only if you belittle the true value of having an unbreakable locking system that’s certain to last you for years to come. Once you start thinking about your locksmith in these terms, everything they do and charge for will start to make sense. At the end of the day, using a cheap locksmith just beats the whole purpose.

If you’re looking for a reliable lock installation that’s built to last, reach out to the trusted locksmiths at 24/7 London Locksmith today!

locksmithForADay

London Locksmith: A Day in the Life

As a certified technician for 24/7 London Locksmith, I respond to our clients’ emergency calls day and night. I often travel to the outskirts of London, where I provide just as many residential and commercial services as in the central areas of our city. The thing I like the most about what I do? My favorite thing about this job is the stories I get to be a part of.

And, of course, the people I meet.

My name is Brian, I typically arrive in less than 30 minutes, and this is a day in my life as a locksmith.

What You Think I Do

For most people I know, the first association of being a locksmith is usually running around town and getting elderly Londoners out of trouble. Sure, I help people get inside their apartments, homes, and cars every single day, and sure, some of them are indeed older. But it would shock you to know how many of them are busy, running-on-a-tight-schedule, professionals just like you and me.

In our industry, this is just regular stuff. We earn our average salaries (if you work at night or provide emergency services, you usually get paid more), and we make a fair living. Locksmiths rarely have to worry about going out of business, which is great – everyone needs a lock and a key, after all. As for our competition, well, you just keep working, you give your best every day, and you stay committed.

What I Think I Do

The one thing I’ve learned in my career as a locksmith is that what people believe we do in this industry is often a misconception. No, I don’t spend my time waiting for lockout calls. I don’t get paid more than you do either. I simply go from door to door applying my skills, helping people, and having a blast being a part of their crazy stories.

And some of these stories have stuck with me for years.

As a locksmith, you’re in a unique position to take a sneak peek into somebody’s life. It usually doesn’t last longer than 10 to 15 minutes, but it’s fascinating nevertheless. I’m constantly meeting new people all over London. I’ve definitely heard my fair share of crazy lockout stories. I’ve really seen everything.

What I Actually Do

Officially speaking, I am a part of a team of professional locksmiths who cover all types of locks around all areas of London, regardless of what needs to be done. Emergency door opening is one tiny fragment of my job. I also repair, replace and install locks, deadbolt and other locks. I work with cylinders and levers, I know my way around uPVC, and I do my fair share of auto locks too.

What I actually do as a locksmith is solving unusual problems.

I combine function with aesthetics to deliver the best possible solutions for my clients, and I do that on a daily basis. It makes me happy because of the way I choose to approach it. In my opinion, a good locksmith is an artist of a special kind.

If you’re in need of any emergency locksmith services or lock replacements of any kind, reach out to us today!

Banham-Lock-Fresh-Installation

Banham Lock Fresh Installation

No matter where you are in London, it’s necessary to update your locks every so often. Locks can become worn down through natural wear and tear. Just imagine how many times you open your day a day – that eventually adds up. This will cause your lock to deteriorate over time and compromise the safety of your home.

In order to keep your home at maximum security for as long as you live there, it’s absolutely necessary to update your locks. That’s exactly what our most recent job was for.

Two Updated Banham Locks

One of our most recent calls was from a family who did not feel safe with their current lock condition. The locks that they had currently were outdated and could’ve easily been compromised. They contacted 24/7 London Locksmith looking for help on how to maximize the security of their household.

We arrived at the house quickly and assessed the situation. We confirmed upon arrival that the current locks were not suited for maximum security. These locks we’re nearly 20 years old and were rusted. It was evident that any burglar could’ve broken in easily. We removed this lock quickly and replaced them with 2 maximum security, high-quality Banham Locks.

Mission: Replace outdated locks with new high-security Banham locks

Emergency: Client did not feel safe with current lock situation. Needed maximum-security lock installation.

Lock: Banham locks

Location: South East London

Phone call date & time: Monday, December 10th, 2018, 2:05 pm

Arrival time: 2:30pm (~25 minutes)

Work time: 50 minutes

Banham Locks

Contact us today and we promise we’ll get to you within 30 minutes!

Touchscreen-Locks-Are-They-Worth-It

Touchscreen Locks – Are They Worth It?

Ask anyone if they are currently carrying a set of house keys, and most will readily jangle their pockets in response. However, keys may become a thing of the past as touchscreen lock technology evolves and becomes more commonplace. If you often forget your keys or just aren’t a fan of keys in general, then read on to find out if investing in a touchscreen lock is for you.

Convenience

Touchscreen locks are easy to use right from the point of installation. These mechanized deadbolts can often be fitted in the place of old locks, so no need to change out your whole door. Once installed and a personalized code selected, you are essential ‘key-free’. This means that not only can you go for a jog or walk the dog and not have to worry about carrying keys, but it also means you will never get locked out again. And because these locks rely on batteries, you won’t be caught short in a power outage.

You can also create temporary access codes for other users, for example, housekeepers, dog walkers, or contractors, limiting both the time and duration of access. Once these codes expire or are cancelled, they cannot be used again – far safer than handing out keys that can be copied.

Home Security

Having a tangible set of keys makes us feel secure because as long as they are in our possession, no one else can use them. In lieu of hardcopy keys, touchscreen locks give you peace of mind by providing remote monitoring via PC and smartphone apps.

The locks feed digital access history to these apps so that you can easily see a timeline of when your door was opened and by whom. Much like a security system when you are at home, you can switch on audible alerts to sound when the door is opened or closed, or if someone is trying to force entry.

Insurance

One last thing to consider before investing in a touchscreen lock is whether or not it can save you money on your insurance premiums. Most insurance companies give discounts for homes which have increased security and remote monitoring systems, however, they also require you to have British Standard 3621 locks fitted on all final exit doors in your home.

Be sure to contact your insurers to understand the exact stipulations of your policy before making the switch to touchscreen.

With all the different options available, the best thing to do is contact the professionals. London Locksmith is available 24/7 to answer queries, find the best locks to fit your needs, and stock a full range of insurance approved locks. Contact us today for a free cost estimate.

Chubb-or-Ingersoll-Locks

Chubb or Ingersoll Locks – Which One Protects You Better?

When choosing locks for your home, one of the key deciding factors should be their compliance with your insurer’s requirements. Most insurers require homeowners to have British Standard 3621 deadlocks fitted on all their final exit doors because they are the most resistant to forced entry methods employed by thieves. In fact, having a BS3621 lock is often a prerequisite for your insurance policy to remain valid.

Here we compare Chubb and Ingersoll, both well-respected brands in the locksmith industry, to help you choose which is right for you.

Chubb

Chubb has been manufacturing locks since the early 1800s. Since then their locks have become synonymous with deadlocks. They can only be operated with a key and have no latch. These locks provide more security as potential burglars cannot simply reach in through a broken window and turn the latch to gain access.

Chubb offers a 5-lever British Standard mortice lock, which meets most insurance companies’ requirements as it is very robust and resists lock picking as well featuring anti-drill plates. Buying a Chubb mortice lock means that with a single installation, you have achieved insurance approved security for your home. Chubb locks are a reliable and resourceful way to keep your home safe 24/7.

Ingersoll

Ingersoll SC71 Classic 10-lever deadlocks came on the market in the late 1960s and quickly became widely favoured across the UK. Operated from the inside with a latch and from the outside with a key, this lock provides a solid foundation for securing your home.

However, the SC71 alone does not meet the British Standard 3621 deadlock requirements. If you want to opt for this lock, then you will have to augment it with a secondary BS3621 certified mortice deadlock. Fortunately, despite having two locks you can use the same key to operate both. This is a great option if you would prefer two points of security on your door, but the convenience of only requiring one key.

Overall both locks provide your home with the necessary and proper security measures to ensure a safe home. You can’t go wrong with either. It’s just a matter of personal preference.

Contact the professionals at London Locksmith who service the Greater London Area. We are available 24/7 to provide advice and a free quote and ensure that you choose the best option for your needs.

How-Often-and-When-Should-I-Change-My-Locks

How Often and When Should I Change My Locks?

Security is a major buzzword in today’s world – from firewalls and encryption, to password complexity and personal data protection. However, often we are so concerned with virtual security that we overlook the physical measures in place to protect ourselves and our property. In fact, one of the quickest and easiest ways to improve home security is to change your locks regularly.

In a world where we change flatmates more frequently than our email passwords, it is a good idea to follow the tips below to determine if it may be time to have new locks fitted.

Moving

Try counting how many of your keys are floating around and you may find yourself hard pressed to keep track of them all: parents, flatmates, boyfriends, girlfriends, cleaners, estate agents, landlords – the list goes on! One of the best times to wipe the slate clean and start over is when you move. When you move into a new flat or house, chances are there’s a lot of keys floating around to that new apartment. Changing the locks upon arrival ensures that only you have the keys, and that old, outdated or damaged locks are exchanged for new ones.

As a new property owner, be sure to have the locks changed as soon as the old owners move out. However, if you are renting, then you should have new locks fitted when you move in and thereafter any time you have a change of flatmate.

Home Renovation

Whether you are undertaking a full refurbishment or just having smaller jobs done, you may decide to entrust contractors with your keys while you are at work. However, you may not realise just how many people will have access to your keys. During the course of a home improvement project, electricians, plumbers, and masons, will all require access to your property. These contractors may then delegate work to their employees, which means your keys will make the rounds amongst quite a few people.

So, even if you have a lovely contractor and the renovation went off without a hitch, it is still a good idea to have your locks changed at the end of any home improvement project.

You Lose Your Keys

You may think that losing your keys is just a minor annoyance easily remedied by simply using your spare set, but this is not the case. If you lose your keys as a result of petty crime, such as pickpocketing or bag snatching, your personal effects, including ID cards, driver’s licenses, or even bills, give criminals clues as to where you live. The bottom line is that when you lose keys, you never know who may find them, so as a precaution it is wise to have new locks fitted.

Whether you’ve recently moved or simply lost your keys, contact London Locksmith. Servicing the Greater London area, we are available 24 hours a day and can offer advice via the telephone, provide free estimates, and no call out charges. For all your locksmith needs contact London Locksmith today!