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How to start a locksmith business

Are you a skilled locksmith? Do you work for a locksmith company but would like to set up your own locksmith business? If this sounds like you, read on for expert tips on how to start a locksmith business.

Starting a locksmith business

Much like setting up a blacksmith business, starting a locksmith business can be a daunting idea. There’s lots to consider and you want to ensure that you are as successful as possible.

On the flip side, starting your own locksmith business will open up loads of advantages.

As a locksmith business owner, you will now be your own boss. This means that you can set your own working hours, choose the clients you want to work worth, and decide what services you want to offer.

How do I start a locksmith business?

The first thing to do when starting a locksmith business is to register your company with HMRC. This will ensure that your business fully complies with UK law.

As part of the business set up process, you’ll also need to choose the structure of your locksmith company.

Do you want to set up as a sole trader or a limited company? Running your business as a sole trader is generally simpler as there’s less paperwork involved.

Sole traders, however, don’t get the same financial security as a limited company.

Have a read of our guide on what the difference is between a sole trader vs. a limited company for a more detailed comparison.

Locksmith prices

Insurance for your locksmith business

Insurance is an essential part of any business. It is there for both you and your customers in the event of an accident, theft, or damage.

The main types of insurance for you to consider are:

  • Public liability insurance – covers claims made against you by members of the public plus compensation for personal injuries, loss or damage to property etc.
  • Professional indemnity insurance – protects against customer claims for damage to property and problems with work completed
  • Tools insurance – replacement costs of equipment through loss or theft caused by theft, fire or flooding

Once your locksmith business is legally established and insured, you can start on the day-to-day side of your locksmith services.

What do I need to start a locksmith business?

As a qualified locksmith, you’ll already know what locksmith services you want to provide as a locksmith business owner.

These could include:

  • Home locks and security
  • Commercial security systems
  • Automotive locks
  • Installation/maintenance/repair

You’ll also need to highlight to your customers your qualifications and experience.

As a locksmith, it will help your business grow if you’re a member of the Master Locksmith’s Association (MLA).

MLA membership gives your customers peace of mind that they are working with a skilled professional.

You should also be able to show potential customers examples of your work. The best place to do this is with a business website.

How to create a locksmith business website

Today, a business website is essential. Customers use the internet for everything. From product research to opening hours and location, your website is the one-stop shop for all your customers’ needs.

Creating a website may seem like a challenge. With a bit of knowledge, however, you’ll soon have a stylish and user-friendly website to promote your company.

Whether you decide to build it yourself or hire a web designer, the more you know about the process, the higher chances of success.

What should you include in your website?

A professional business website should be clear and easy to use. It should also contain essential information that your customers want to know. This could include:

  • Your business name and logo
  • Your address and contact details
  • Information about the products/services you provide
  • The area you cover
  • Any positive customer reviews
  • Your professional qualifications

Alongside your website, you may want to do some marketing to really make your business thrive.

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Marketing ideas for your locksmith business

Marketing your locksmith business should be perfectly aligned with your business website. The two should be connected and present a united picture of your locksmith business.

Marketing is not all done online, however. By embracing both digital and traditional marketing, you’re sure to have more business success.

Let’s look at both digital and traditional marketing to see how they can help your locksmith business.

Traditional marketing

Traditional marketing involves any business promotion and advertising that is not done on the internet. It can include:

  • Sending brochures and leaflets by mail
  • Creating signs and logos for your vans and workwear
  • Using your brand to sponsor local events
  • Advertising in local magazines and newspapers
  • Posting your services on community bulletin boards
  • Using word of mouth to grow your customer base

Traditional marketing is a great way to promote your locksmith business and get your name known.

To maximise your opportunities, however, you’ll want to carry out your traditional marketing campaign alongside some digital marketing.

word of mouth marketing visual explanation

Digital marketing

Digital marketing involves all the work you do online to promote your business. According to recent statistics, a large number of people research a business online before making a purchase or using a service. This means your digital presence is extremely important.

To boost your digital marketing, you’ll need:

  • A professional and user-friendly website
  • A regularly updated social media profile
  • Online customer testimonials (both on your website and on third party reviews sites)
  • Membership to an online directory (such as Checkatrade!)

Want to find out more about marketing your handyman business? Join Checkatrade today!

Get your new locksmith business off the ground

Join the best trades on the UK's leading trade directory

Join Checkatrade now

Becoming a Checkatrade approved locksmith

The final and perhaps most important part of starting a locksmith business is to join an online trade database. Becoming a Checkatrade member is a great way to grow your locksmith business and build customer trust.

As a Checkatrade member you become part of the UK’s largest database of registered traders.

There’s a host of reasons to get on board. Such as:

  • Offers and discounts on business essentials like workwear, fuel and materials
  • Access dedicated trade app
  • Use of professional quoting/invoicing tool
  • Save on your public liability insurance
  • Plus, more work coming your way!

When you join Checkatrade, you can expect more leads each week. This equates to more business and more profit for your locksmith business.

FAQs

How profitable is a locksmith business

Locksmiths are always in demand. Where there’s a need for locks and security systems, there will be work for locksmiths.

Working as a locksmith can be highly profitable. Average earnings for a locksmith can be quite varied. But as a general guide, the average UK annual earnings for a self-employed sole trade locksmith are £63,000.

Is a locksmith business a good option in the UK?

Yes. As mentioned above, locksmiths are always in high demand. This means that a professional locksmith will never be out of work. You’ll also be able to choose the hours your work and the type of work you specialise in.

There are many ways to become a locksmith if you aren’t one already.

What tools do I need to start a locksmith business?

As a locksmith business owner, you will need any of the following tools and equipment:

  • Screwdriver set
  • Various drills and drill bits
  • Chisel set
  • Lock picks and pick gun
  • Tension wrench
  • Cutting machine

If you work on more specialist locking systems such as car locks or CCTV systems, you will need to invest in more specialist equipment.

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Content disclaimer: This content has been created for general information purposes and should not be taken as formal advice. Read our full disclaimer here.

*Year runs from April 21’ to March 22’. Saving calculation based on average spend across 12,505 members in 2020/2021/2022. Discounts differ depending on the partner. Products range from low value items to high value items. Some exclusions will apply on products.

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