Window lock replacement in Exeter
Professional window lock replacement services in Exeter and surrounding areas. Local, reliable handyman - no job too small.
Price Guide
£60-£85
Typical Duration
30 mins-1.5 hrs
Location
Exeter, Devon
Window lock replacement for broken, worn, or insecure locks. Security upgrade, insurance compliance, matches your window style - peace of mind restored.
Security Fail OR Insurance Fail - Neither Is Good
Broken window lock? Can't lock your ground floor windows? You're a burglary statistic waiting to happen. Worse - your home insurance probably requires working locks on accessible windows. Failed lock = failed insurance claim.
💡 Pro tip: Check your home insurance small print. Most policies require locks on ground floor windows and any window accessible from extensions, porches, or drainpipes. Not having them working can invalidate claims.
Why Professional Replacement Matters
Window locks are security devices. They need to actually work and be secure.
| ✅ Done Right | ❌ Done Wrong |
|---|---|
| Correct lock type for window mechanism | Generic lock that doesn't suit window |
| Securely mounted to solid frame | Screwed to weak material, pulls out |
| Operates smoothly, locks positively | Stiff, jams, or doesn't fully engage |
| Insurance-compliant standard | Cheap lock that doesn't meet spec |
What You Get
🔧 The Full Service
| Stage | What Happens |
|---|---|
| Assessment | Check lock type, window style, what's failed |
| Source | Get correct replacement lock |
| Fitting | Remove old lock, fit new one securely |
| Testing | Check operation, security, smooth action |
📦 Included
- Replacement lock suitable for window type
- All fixings and mounting hardware
- Keys if lock is keyed type
- Operation test and adjustment
Pricing Guide
| Number of Locks | Estimated Time | You'll Pay |
|---|---|---|
| 1 window lock | 30 mins-1 hr | £60 |
| 2-3 window locks | 1-1.5 hrs | £60-£85 |
| 4+ locks or complex | Quote | Call for price |
Based on £60 minimum + £50/hr. Assumes standard replacement locks. Specialist locks cost more.
Perfect For Your Project If...
✅ Broken lock - mechanism failed, key snapped, won't engage
✅ Insurance requirement - policy requires working locks on accessible windows
✅ Security upgrade - old windows never had locks fitted
✅ New tenancy - landlord requirement for rental properties
Why Choose Us for Window lock replacement in Exeter?
Working locks for security and insurance
Upgrade old locks to modern standards
Matches existing finish and style
Works on sash, casement, and UPVC windows
What to Expect
Step 1: Lock Assessment
Check what type of lock you need. Different window styles need different locks - casement stays, sash stops, cockspur handles, espag locks on UPVC. Assess what's failed and whether existing lock is suitable or needs upgrading.
Step 2: Source Replacement
Sometimes I've got common types in the van. More often need to measure and source correct replacement - might be next day or few days depending on lock type. Specialist or old locks can take longer.
Step 3: Fit & Test
Remove failed lock carefully (don't damage frame). Fit new lock securely to solid frame material. Test operation - should lock positively with smooth action. Provide keys if applicable. Show you how to operate if it's a new type.
🔧 DIY Tips
Doable DIY but easier to get wrong than you'd think:
🔧 Tools you'll need
- Screwdriver (Phillips and flat)
- Drill and appropriate bits
- Chisel (sometimes needed for recessing)
- Pencil and tape measure
- The correct replacement lock
🔍 Identifying your lock type
- Casement windows: usually cockspur handle, espag handle, or casement stay lock
- Sash windows: sash stops, dual screws, or Brighton fasteners
- UPVC: multipoint espag locks, often specific to manufacturer
📏 Getting the right replacement
- Take photo of existing lock
- Measure key dimensions (backset, spindle size, etc)
- Remove old lock and take it to locksmith or window supplier
- Match exact type if possible, or closest equivalent
- Don't assume "window lock" is universal - hundreds of types
🔧 Fitting new lock
- Remove old lock and clean screw holes
- Position new lock exactly where old one was
- Pilot drill new screw holes if needed
- Don't overtighten screws (can strip threads or crack frame)
- Test before fully tightening everything
- Adjust strike plate or keeper to align properly
⚠️ Common DIY mistakes
- Buying wrong lock type (looks similar but doesn't fit)
- Not drilling pilot holes (splits the frame)
- Mounting to trim instead of solid frame (not secure)
- Lock doesn't align with keeper (won't close properly)
- Overtightening screws (strips threads, lock wobbles)
💡 Pro trick: If you're replacing multiple locks, remove one, source the replacement, test-fit it, then buy multiples of the same. Much faster than one-by-one. And keep old locks until new ones are fitted and tested - you might need to compare measurements.
Rather leave it to a pro? No problem - that's what I'm here for. Give me a call.
Good to Know
🏠 Old Exeter house with original windows? Original windows often never had locks fitted - they relied on the sash weight and friction to stay shut. Modern insurance won't accept that. I can fit sash stops or dual screws that preserve the look but add required security.
Multiple windows? If you're doing a security upgrade or rental prep, get all windows done together. I can assess what's needed, source all the locks, do them all in one visit.
Rental property requirements: Landlords are legally required to ensure windows can be secured. Ground floor and easily accessible windows need working locks. Worth checking all locks work before tenant moves in - easier than emergency callout mid-tenancy.
UPVC lock mechanisms: These are more complex than simple window locks. If your UPVC window won't lock, could be failed mechanism, misalignment, or dropped sash. Sometimes adjustable, sometimes needs full mechanism replacement. I'll assess what's needed.
Keys and security: Keyed window locks are more secure but easy to lose keys. Some people keep one key in the window for quick access (fire escape) and hide spares. Balance security against emergency egress - in a fire you need to get out fast.
Frequently Asked Questions
My window lock is broken - can you just fix it or does it need replacing?
Depends what's broken. Sometimes it's just a loose screw or adjustment needed (cheap fix). More often the mechanism is worn or broken and needs full replacement. I'll assess and tell you honestly - always better to fix than replace if possible, but locks are usually one or the other.
Will replacement locks match my existing windows?
I'll match as closely as possible. If you've got original locks on other windows, I'll try to source matching style. If not available, I'll get the closest equivalent that works with your window type. Function matters more than looks, but I aim for both.
Do window locks actually deter burglars?
Yes - most burglars go for easy targets. Visible window locks make them move on to next house. Also, your home insurance usually requires them on ground floor and accessible windows. Failed insurance claim because locks weren't working is worst case scenario.
Can you fit locks to old sash windows that never had them?
Absolutely. Sash windows are easy to break into without locks - they just lift up. I fit sash stops or dual screws that let you lock sashes in closed or ventilation positions. Big security improvement and usually required by insurance.
How long do window locks typically last?
Modern locks should last 10-20 years. Older ones might fail sooner if they're cheap quality or get lots of use. Locks on windows that get opened daily wear faster than ones rarely used. Salty coastal air corrodes locks faster too - common issue around Exmouth and the coast.
Window lock replacement Also Available In:
Get a Free Quote in Exeter
Call us today for a free, no-obligation quote for your window lock replacement job in Exeter.
01392 964094Request Online QuoteOur Rates
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!
Why Trust Us
Related Services
Door draught proofing
Windows & Draught Proofing
£60-£110
Double glazing repair
Windows & Draught Proofing
£60-£160
Draught excluder fitting
Windows & Draught Proofing
£60-£110
Keyhole draught excluder
Windows & Draught Proofing
£60
Letterbox draught excluder
Windows & Draught Proofing
£60
Misted double glazing repair
Windows & Draught Proofing
Quote - depends on size
Need Window lock replacement in Exeter?
Get a free quote for your window lock replacement job in Exeter today.