Question 1

How quickly can you get to me in Canberra?

Accepted Answer

From our Flynn base, we average 20–30 minutes across Canberra. Belconnen and Gungahlin suburbs are usually 5–15 minutes, Inner North 15–25 minutes, and Inner South 25–30 minutes.

Question 2

How much does an emergency locksmith cost in Canberra?

Accepted Answer

Upfront pricing varies by suburb and the size of the job. We give you a full price quote on the phone before we leave so there are no surprises, and confirm it on-site before any work begins.

Question 3

Do you damage the lock to open it?

Accepted Answer

No — we use non-destructive entry methods (lock picking, bypass tools) wherever possible. Drilling is the last resort, only used when a lock is already damaged or anti-pick.

Question 4

Are you available overnight and on weekends?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We answer the phone 24/7, including nights, weekends, and public holidays.

Question 5

Can you help if I'm locked out of my car?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we open vehicle lockouts using non-destructive techniques. Note: we do not cut new car keys — only open the vehicle.

Question 6

Should I rekey or replace locks after moving in?

Accepted Answer

Rekeying is faster and cheaper if your existing locks are good quality (Lockwood, Yale, Schlage). Replace only if locks are old, damaged, or low-grade. We can advise on the spot.

Question 7

Can you key all my locks to one key?

Accepted Answer

Yes — keyed-alike rekeying lets you open every lock in your home with the same key. It's a popular service for new homeowners and saves carrying multiple keys.

Question 8

How long does a smart lock installation take?

Accepted Answer

Most smart lock installs take 45–90 minutes, including app pairing and showing you how it works. We fit Lockwood Cobalt, Yale Assure, Schlage Encode, and similar.

Question 9

Do you do landlord rekeys between tenancies?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We provide fast turnaround rekeys for property managers and landlords across Canberra, with invoicing options for agencies.

Question 10

Do you provide invoicing for businesses?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We invoice with ABN, GST, and itemised pricing. Accounts and purchase order arrangements available for ongoing clients.

Question 11

Can you work after hours to avoid closing the business?

Accepted Answer

Yes — we regularly schedule commercial work in the evenings or on weekends to avoid disrupting trading hours.

Question 12

What's a master key system?

Accepted Answer

A master key system lets different people have different access — for example, a manager's key opens every door, while staff keys only open specific areas. We design and install master systems on request.

Question 13

Are your technicians security cleared?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our lead locksmith Ian is security cleared and SCEC approved, which is required for government and high-security commercial work.

Question 14

Is rekeying as secure as replacing the lock?

Accepted Answer

Yes — the security of a lock depends on its internal pins, and rekeying changes those completely. The result is identical to a brand-new lock for a fraction of the cost.

Question 15

How long does rekeying take?

Accepted Answer

About 15 minutes per cylinder on-site. A typical 4-lock home rekey takes around an hour, including testing all keys.

Question 16

Can you rekey all my locks to one key?

Accepted Answer

Yes — keyed-alike rekeying is the most popular option for homeowners. One key opens every lock in the house, including deadlocks and security screen doors where compatible.

Question 17

Do you rekey commercial properties?

Accepted Answer

Yes, including offices, retail, and strata buildings. We can also set up master key systems where different staff need different access levels.

Question 18

Should I repair or replace a broken lock?

Accepted Answer

Most locks can be repaired for a fraction of the replacement cost. We only recommend replacement when the lock body is cracked, very old, or no longer secure. We tell you the honest answer on-site.

Question 19

Why is my key getting harder to turn?

Accepted Answer

Usually it's worn pins, dry mechanism, or door misalignment. We can lubricate, rebuild the cylinder, or realign the door — all on-site.

Question 20

Can you remove a broken key from the lock?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Broken key extraction is a common job — we use specialist tools to remove the key without damaging the lock. Usually quick to fix on-site.

Question 21

Do you guarantee your repairs?

Accepted Answer

Yes — we aim to back all repair work with a workmanship warranty. If the same issue returns within the warranty period, we'll come back to assess and resolve it.

Question 22

Which smart lock is best for a Canberra home?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your door and how you'll use it. For most homes we recommend Carbine or McGrath (reliable, well-supported in Australia). For Wi-Fi remote access, Lockton is a strong option, and Eufy works well for households already using a smart-home ecosystem.

Question 23

Do smart locks work in a power outage?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Smart locks run on batteries (typically 6–12 months per set) and most have a key override. You won't be locked out if the power goes.

Question 24

Is a smart lock as secure as a regular deadlock?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Reputable smart locks (Carbine, McGrath, Lockton, Eufy) meet Australian security standards and use the same deadbolt mechanisms as traditional deadlocks. The electronic part is for convenience, not security.

Question 25

Can you install a smart lock I bought online?

Accepted Answer

Yes — we offer an install-only service if you've bought your own. We'll check it's compatible with your door first and quote the install before we start.

Question 26

What does SCEC approved mean?

Accepted Answer

SCEC (Security Construction and Equipment Committee) is an Australian Government body that certifies locksmiths and security products for use in government and high-security facilities. SCEC approval is required for most Australian Government locksmith work. SCEC Locksmiths adhere to the Protective Security Policy Framework (PSPF).

Question 27

Are your technicians security cleared?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our lead locksmith Ian holds the security clearance required for government and defence work. We can provide clearance documentation when required.

Question 28

Do you handle restricted key systems?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We install and service restricted and registered key systems, where keys can only be cut against documented authority. This prevents unauthorised key duplication.

Question 29

Can you provide compliance documentation?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All SCEC and government work is fully documented, including product certifications, install records, and service history — suitable for audits and security registers.

Frequently Asked Questions