How to Replace a Door Lock or Remove a Broken Key: A London Homeowner’s Guide

You can usually replace a door lock in 15 to 60 minutes, depending on the lock type. If a key has snapped, stop turning it and follow the safe steps below. If you get stuck, call a locksmith near me style local expert who can come to you the same hour.

This guide is written for homeowners, tenants and landlords in Cricklewood, Golders Green, Hampstead, Belsize Park, Swiss Cottage, St John’s Wood and Primrose Hill.

How Long Does It Take to Replace a Lock?

If you are asking how long does it take to replace a lock, here is a simple guide:

1. Euro cylinder (common on uPVC doors): about 15 to 30 minutes.
2. Night latch: about 30 to 45 minutes.
3. Mortice lock or deadlock: about 30 to 60 minutes.
4. uPVC multipoint lock: about 30 to 60 minutes.

A trained locksmith is usually quicker because they carry the right parts. A first time DIY job can take twice as long, especially if the lock is the wrong size.

How to Replace a Door Lock Step by Step

If you want to know how to replace a door lock yourself, follow these steps.

Step 1: Identify your lock type. Look at the edge of the door. A cylinder with a keyhole on a uPVC door is a euro cylinder. A long rectangular case in the door edge is a mortice lock.

Step 2: Measure before you buy. For a euro cylinder, measure from the centre screw to each end. Sizes are written like 40/40. A wrong size can stick out and make the door easier to attack.

Step 3: Remove the old lock. Open the door. Undo the retaining screw on the door edge. Turn the key slightly and slide the cylinder out.

Step 4: Fit the new lock. Slide the new cylinder in, line up the screw hole, and tighten the screw. Do not overtighten.

Step 5: Test it. With the door open, test the key several times. Then close the door and test again, to make sure the bolt moves smoothly.

Choose the right standard. Many home insurers ask for a British Standard lock on the final exit door. For cylinders, look for the anti snap rating on the packaging. Always check your own policy.

How to Extract a Broken Key

Many people search how to extract broken key at the worst possible moment. Here is what to try safely.

If part of the key is sticking out:

1. Grip it gently with needle nose pliers or tweezers.
2. Pull it straight out. Do not twist.

If the key is stuck inside the lock:

1. Spray a little graphite or PTFE lubricant into the keyway.
2. Wait a minute, then try the pliers again.
3. Slide a thin jigsaw blade or key extractor along the side of the key, hook the teeth, and pull out gently.

What not to do:

1. Do not use superglue. It can ruin the lock.
2. Do not force the lock or hammer it.
3. Stop if the piece moves further inside, and call a locksmith.

When to Call a Locksmith

Call a professional if:

1. The key is deep inside and will not move.
2. The lock is damaged after a break in.
3. You are locked out.
4. Your insurer needs a certified fitter.

Need a Locksmith in London?

If you search for a locksmith london wide, choose one that is local, insured and open at any time. A locksmith close to me will usually get to you faster, and that matters when you are stuck outside.

Lock First is a local team. Our locksmiths are DBS checked and fully insured. We offer:

1. No call out fees.
2. Fixed upfront pricing.
3. A 30 to 45 minute target response.
4. A 12 month parts and labour guarantee.

Emergency Locksmith London: What to Expect

If you need an emergency locksmith london service, here is what happens:

1. You call and describe the problem.
2. We confirm a price before we set off.
3. We aim to arrive in 30 to 45 minutes.
4. We fix or replace the lock, test it, and leave your door secure.

We are also a 24 hour locksmith london service. That means nights, weekends and bank holidays. Lock First answers at any time, so a late night lockout does not have to wait until morning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a locksmith near me open now?
Yes. Lock First is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call 07468305302 and we will confirm your arrival time.

How much does it cost to replace a lock?
Price depends on the lock type and the time of day. We give a fixed price before we start, with no call out fees.

Can a locksmith replace a lock the same day?
Yes, in most cases. Most standard locks are replaced in one visit.

Can a broken key always be removed?
Most can. If the key is deep or the lock is damaged, a locksmith will extract it or replace the lock.

Call Lock First

Locked out, stuck with a broken key, or ready for a new lock? Call or WhatsApp Lock First on 07468305302. We cover Cricklewood, Golders Green, Hampstead, Belsize Park, Swiss Cottage, St John’s Wood and Primrose Hill.