Lock repair in Exeter
Professional lock repair services in Exeter and surrounding areas. Local, reliable handyman - no job too small.
Price Guide
£60-110
Typical Duration
45-90 mins
Location
Exeter, Devon
Lock repairs for sticky mechanisms, broken springs, worn components, and alignment issues. We diagnose the problem properly, advise whether repair or replacement makes sense, then fix it so your lock works smoothly and securely again.
Not all lock problems need replacement. Springs break, mechanisms wear, and misalignment causes issues - often repairable for less than buying new locks. We assess the fault, explain options, and fix what can be fixed economically.
What's Included
| Service | Details |
|---|---|
| Diagnosis | Identify the actual problem, not just symptoms |
| Honest assessment | Advise repair vs replace based on cost/value |
| Repair work | Fix mechanism, replace worn parts, adjust operation |
| Testing | Ensure smooth, reliable operation before finishing |
| Advice | Maintenance tips to prevent future issues |
Common Lock Problems
| Issue | Typical Cause | Repair Approach | Cost Guide |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sticky/stiff operation | Dirt, old grease, lack of lubrication | Clean and lubricate properly | £60 |
| Key won't turn fully | Worn mechanism, broken spring | Replace spring or worn components | £85 |
| Lock won't latch | Misalignment, worn strike plate | Adjust strike, align door | £60-85 |
| Loose door handle | Worn spindle, loose screws | Tighten fixings, replace spindle | £60 |
| Broken spring | Wear from use | Replace spring in mechanism | £85 |
| UPVC multipoint issues | Worn rollers, misaligned door | Adjust door, replace rollers | £85-110 |
Repair vs Replace Decision
| Lock Type | Usually Worth Repairing? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Quality mortice lock | Yes | Well-made, parts available, worth fixing |
| Cheap cylinder lock | Often no | Replacement lock costs £15-25, labour similar |
| UPVC multipoint | Sometimes | Depends on age and part availability |
| Yale/nightlatch | Sometimes | Balance cost of parts vs new mechanism |
| Vintage/unusual locks | Yes | Replacements hard to find, repair preserves original |
Why Choose Us for Lock repair in Exeter?
Often cheaper than replacement
Same-day service available
Proper diagnosis of issues
Honest advice on repair vs replace
What to Expect
1. Diagnosis & Assessment We examine the lock operation, identify the actual problem (not just symptoms), test alignment and mechanism function, and explain what's wrong and why it's happening.
2. Repair Options Discussion We explain repair options and costs, advise honestly if replacement makes more sense, show you what needs doing, and get your go-ahead before proceeding.
3. Professional Repair We dismantle the lock as needed, replace worn components or springs, clean and lubricate mechanisms, adjust alignment or strike plates, and test thoroughly for smooth, reliable operation.
🔧 DIY Tips
Want to attempt lock repair yourself? Here's the reality:
- Diagnosis first: Don't assume - sticky locks might be lubrication, alignment, or worn mechanisms requiring different fixes
- Alignment check: Before dismantling locks, check door alignment - sometimes the lock's fine but the door has dropped
- Take photos: Before removing anything, photograph how components fit together - lock mechanisms aren't intuitive
- Springs are fiddly: Mortice lock springs require specific technique to fit - they ping off easily
- Strike plate position: Sometimes just repositioning the strike plate solves latch problems - check this before complex repairs
Simple lubrication and adjustment are manageable DIY. Mechanism repair needs experience and the right parts. If you're not confident, we'll do it properly first time.
Rather leave it to a pro? No problem - that's what I'm here for. Give me a call.
Good to Know
When to repair: Quality locks with isolated faults (broken spring, worn keeper) are worth fixing. The lock body and basic mechanism should be sound.
When to replace: Cheap locks with multiple issues, severely worn mechanisms, corroded internals, or damaged lock bodies. Sometimes replacement is smarter.
UPVC multipoint locks: These have cylinders, rollers, hooks, and shootbolts. Often one component fails while others are fine - we can replace just the faulty part.
Door alignment matters: Dropped doors force locks to work harder, causing wear and sticking. Adjusting hinges often improves lock operation dramatically.
Parts availability: Modern locks usually have available spare parts. Vintage or unusual locks might need fabricated components - costs more but preserves originality.
Security consideration: Sometimes lock problems indicate attempted forced entry. We'll check for damage and advise on security improvements if needed.
Mortice lock repair: Quality mortice locks (Chubb, Union, Era) are well-made and repairable. Replacement springs, levers, and bolts are available. Worth repairing unless body is damaged.
Cylinder replacement: Euro cylinders in UPVC doors are consumable parts - they wear out. Replacing just the cylinder (£60-85 fitted) is cheaper than replacing the whole multipoint mechanism (£150+).
Emergency repairs: If your lock's failed and you need security restored quickly, we can often do temporary repairs to secure the property, then return to do proper repairs when parts arrive.
Maintenance prevents repairs: Annual lubrication and adjustment prevents most lock problems. External locks need twice-yearly servicing in coastal areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does lock repair cost?
Lock repair costs £60-110 depending on the issue. Simple fixes like lubrication, spring replacement, or adjustment cost £60-85. Complex mechanism repairs or worn components cost £85-110. We'll diagnose and quote honestly.
Can all locks be repaired?
Most locks can be repaired if the issue is springs, keeping plates, lubrication, or adjustment. Severely worn mechanisms, corroded internals, or damaged lock bodies usually need replacement. We'll advise honestly whether repair is worthwhile.
How long does lock repair take?
Simple repairs like lubrication or spring replacement take 30-45 minutes. Mechanism adjustments or component replacement take 60-90 minutes. We'll give you a time estimate when we diagnose the problem.
Is repair better than replacement?
Depends on the lock condition and cost. Quality mortice locks are worth repairing. Cheap cylinder locks are often cheaper to replace. We'll give honest advice - sometimes replacement is smarter long-term.
Lock repair Also Available In:
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