Key cutting near me

Key cutting services create accurate copies of house, car, and specialist keys using dedicated cutting equipment.

If you need a spare set quickly — for family, tenants, or just peace of mind — finding a checked local key cutter is paramount.

Here, you'll discover how to find key cutting services in your area, who can cut keys, typical costs, and what to check before you book.

How to find key cutting near you

1. Search your postcode

Enter your postcode to see the key cutting services in your area, whether that's Kettering, Kenilworth, Kendal, or anywhere else across the UK.

2. Compare options

View company profiles, look for experience with your key type and read verified reviews about real jobs.

3. Get in touch

Share details of the key you need copied (so the service can confirm they can cut it) and request quotes — so you can compare prices at your convenience.

4. Use the Checkatrade app

Track messages, quotes, and job updates all in one place.

Find key cutters near you with Checkatrade

Only tradespeople who pass our checks and commit to the Checkatrade Standard appear in our listings.

To find reputable key cutters and locksmiths working in your area, enter your postcode and hit search.

Find reputable key cutting services in your area

• Find key cutters in London

• Find key cutters in Manchester

• Find key cutters in Birmingham

• Find key cutters in Leeds

• Find key cutters in Glasgow

• Find key cutters in Bristol

Find related services you may need

• Auto locksmiths near me

• Emergency locksmiths near me

• Burglar alarm installers near me

• Smart home technology consultant near me

Why not download the Checkatrade app for all the tradespeople you need at your fingertips?

Why might you need a key cutting service?

People often search for a key cutter when they need:

• Spare house keys

• Extra keys for family, tenants, or carers

• Replacement keys for worn or damaged originals

• Garage, shed, or padlock keys

• Window, cabinet, or filing cabinet keys

Who can cut keys?

Key cutting is usually carried out by:

• Locksmiths – can cut most domestic and specialist keys, including from locks

• Key cutters – tradespeople who specialise in duplicating keys using cutting machines

• Auto locksmiths – required for car key cutting and programming

If you need car keys cut or programmed, always look for an auto locksmith with the right equipment.

We check the reviews on Checkatrade are from real people, and that trades meet our high standards.

What does key cutting involve?

Step 1: Key assessment

The key cutter starts by checking the key type, wear, and whether it can be duplicated.

Step 2: Cutting or duplication

The key is then copied using a manual or digital key-cutting machine.

Step 3: Testing

The new key is checked for accuracy to ensure smooth operation in the lock.

How much does it cost to get keys cut?

Key cutting costs depend on the key type and complexity. As a guide:

• Standard house keys are usually inexpensive

• Specialist or security keys cost more

• Car key cutting and programming is priced higher due to the equipment involved

Some locksmiths charge by the job, while others work on an hourly rate. In the UK, this is normally around £65 per hour — emergency locksmith rates are higher.

Always confirm pricing before work starts and compare quotes from key cutting services working in your area.

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Questions to ask before hiring a key cutting service

• Can you cut this specific type of key?

• Will you test the key after cutting?

• Do you require ID or proof of authorisation?

• Can you cut from a lock if I don’t have the original key?

• Do you offer mobile key cutting?

• Are you experienced with security or restricted keys?

On Checkatrade, you'll only find trades who meet our high standards and pass up to 12 checks.

Why use Checkatrade to find key cutting near you?

• Checked - Every Checkatrade member must pass up to 12 checks and commit to upholding the Checkatrade Standard

• Reviewed - Over 6.2 million reviews have been published on Checkatrade on everything from communication, tidiness, timekeeping, and quality of work

• Guaranteed - Jobs booked through Checkatrade are covered up to £1,000 (T&Cs apply)

Request a quote, search in the Checkatrade app, or enter your postcode below to find key cutting near you.

FAQs about key cutting services

Do you need ID to get a key cut?

Often yes. Many key cutters ask for ID to prevent unauthorised duplication, especially for security keys.

What types of keys cannot be cut?

Some keys, such as restricted or high-security keys, can only be copied by authorised locksmiths with the right equipment.

However, some types of keys can’t be copied easily or at all. These include transponder keys, VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System) keys, tubular keys, four-sided keys, abloy keys, and internal cut keys.

Can all house keys be copied?

Most house keys can be copied, but keys marked 'Do Not Duplicate' (DND) require a locksmith to go through a thorough process to check that the duplication is authorised.

On the other hand, some DND keys are actually illegal to copy. These are known as restricted keys.

Restricted keys can only be copied if they are cut by an authorised locksmith with permission from the person who manages the key system.

How long does it take to cut a key?

Most standard keys take between 1 and 25 minutes to cut.

Can tenants get keys cut?

Whether tenants can get keys cut depends on the tenancy agreement. Some landlords restrict key duplication or issue restricted keys.

Your landlord may also provide you with a DND key or even a restricted key to prevent you from duplicating it without their permission.

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