Drawer lock fitting in Exeter
Professional drawer lock fitting services in Exeter and surrounding areas. Local, reliable handyman - no job too small.
Price Guide
£60
Typical Duration
30-45 mins
Location
Exeter, Devon
Locks fitted to drawers and filing cabinets for security and privacy. I supply and fit cam locks or surface locks depending on what you need.
Lock What Matters
Not everything needs to be accessible to everyone. Documents, medications, tools, valuables - sometimes you just need a drawer that locks properly.
Fitting a drawer lock is simple in principle, but getting it right matters. Wonky drilling, wrong lock type, or poor installation means it either doesn't work or looks terrible.
💡 Pro tip: If you're locking multiple drawers in the same unit, I can use "keyed alike" locks - different locks, same key. Much more convenient than a keyring full of identical-looking keys.
Common Lock Types
| Lock Type | Best For | How It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Cam lock | Filing cabinets, thin drawers | Round barrel, internal cam catches drawer |
| Surface lock | Wooden furniture, thick drawers | Mounted to drawer face, hasp catches frame |
| Cylinder lock | Office furniture, quality units | Similar to door lock, more secure |
What's Involved
🔧 The Fitting Process
| Stage | What Happens |
|---|---|
| Assess | Check drawer construction, advise on lock type |
| Measure | Mark drilling position accurately |
| Drill | Clean hole through drawer front (size depends on lock) |
| Fit | Install lock, secure from inside, check operation |
| Test | Lock and unlock several times, check alignment |
📦 You're Left With
- Securely locked drawer
- Keys (usually 2 supplied with each lock)
- Clean professional installation
- Advice on spare keys if needed
Pricing Guide
| Job Type | You'll Pay |
|---|---|
| Single drawer lock | £60 |
| Multiple drawers (each additional) | +£25-35 |
Based on £60 minimum (first hour). Includes standard cam lock supply. Add materials cost if you want specific lock types.
Perfect For You If...
✅ Home office - secure important documents
✅ Shared spaces - privacy in flatshare or office
✅ Childproofing - lock dangerous items away
✅ Medicine storage - prescription security
Why Choose Us for Drawer lock fitting in Exeter?
Keep important documents secure
Childproof dangerous items safely
Privacy in shared offices or homes
Locks fitted and tested, keys supplied
What to Expect
Step 1: Choose Lock Type
I look at the drawer construction and we discuss what type of lock works best. Sometimes you have options, sometimes the drawer dictates what's possible.
Step 2: Accurate Drilling
Mark the position carefully - it needs to be central and level. Drill clean hole through drawer front. Drilling is the critical bit - can't undo it if it's wrong.
Step 3: Install and Test
Fit lock from front, secure mechanism from inside. Check it locks and unlocks smoothly. Make sure the cam or hasp actually catches the frame properly.
🔧 DIY Tips
This is definitely doable yourself if you're careful:
🔧 Tools needed
- Drill and bits (size depends on lock - usually 16-20mm)
- Tape measure and pencil
- Screwdriver
- Masking tape (to protect finish)
📏 Measuring accurately
- Measure drawer width, mark exact center
- Mark height - usually centered, sometimes higher if there's paperwork
- Check from inside - make sure there's clearance for lock mechanism
- Double-check before drilling - measure twice!
🔨 The actual fitting
- Put masking tape on drill point - reduces chipping
- Start with small pilot hole, then larger bit
- Drill from front through to back (cleaner hole on visible side)
- Feed lock through, check it sits flush
- Secure from inside (usually a nut or clip)
⚠️ Common DIY mistakes
- Drilling off-center - looks terrible, can't fix it
- Wrong size hole - lock either won't fit or rattles loose
- Drilling too close to edge - wood can split
- Not checking internal clearance - lock hits drawer contents
- Rushing the measuring - can't undo drilling
💡 Pro trick: If drilling a wooden drawer, use sharp brad-point bits and drill slowly. Standard twist bits tend to tear the wood around the edges and you get a scruffy hole.
Rather leave it to a pro? No problem - that's what I'm here for. Give me a call.
Good to Know
🔑 Lost keys? Take the lock to a locksmith with the code number (usually stamped on it). They can sometimes cut replacements. Otherwise it's a new lock.
Multiple locks, one key? Tell me at the start - I'll supply keyed-alike cam locks. Same key opens all locks. Proper filing cabinet sets come like this as standard.
Childproofing? Remember that locks are only as strong as the drawer. Determined kids can pull drawers right out of a runner if they really want to. For serious childproofing, consider proper safety catches instead.
Office furniture? Some filing cabinets already have lock preparation holes - just need the lock installing. Makes the job quicker and cheaper.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of lock do I need for my drawer?
Depends on the drawer. Filing cabinets usually use cam locks (the round ones you turn with a flat key). Wooden furniture can have cam locks or surface-mounted locks. I'll advise what works once I see the drawer - sometimes there are options.
Can you fit locks to any drawer?
Most drawers yes, but some flimsy ones aren't worth locking - anyone could just pry them open. I'll tell you honestly if a lock will actually add security or if it's a waste of money.
Do I need to provide the lock?
I can supply standard cam locks and bring a few options. If you want a specific type or already have locks, that's fine too. Let me know when booking.
Will drilling damage my furniture?
There'll be a hole for the lock - that's unavoidable. I drill it clean and accurate. Most locks sit flush and look like they were meant to be there. Can't be completely invisible though.
Can you do this for multiple drawers?
Yes - often people want a whole filing cabinet done, or several drawers in different rooms. We can use the same key for multiple locks if you want, makes life easier.
Drawer lock fitting Also Available In:
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Got multiple jobs?
Make the most of your first hour - I can often tackle several small tasks in one visit. List everything you need done when you call!
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