Secret Filming Exposes Locksmith Overcharging London Customers

An undercover investigation has revealed how a locksmith operating in London attempted to charge nearly ten times an original quote, raising fresh concerns about so called bait and switch scams targeting vulnerable customers. The case emerged after journalists secretly filmed a locksmith who initially quoted £40 for a simple door opening before rapidly increasing the cost once on site. The investigation followed dozens of complaints from London and Essex residents who said they were lured by low online quotes only to face inflated bills and unnecessary work. In one filmed encounter, the locksmith claimed drilling was required almost immediately, despite evidence that the lock could have been opened without damage. Consumer groups say such practices exploit urgency and fear, particularly when people are locked out of their homes and feel they have little choice but to agree.

Among those affected were Maureen and Eric Reynolds, both aged 85, who were locked out of their London home after leaving a key in the door. A family member contacted a company trading as 24 7 Locksmiths UK after finding it through an internet search, and was quoted £49 to regain entry. When the locksmith arrived, he said he lacked the tools to remove the key and insisted drilling the lock was the only option. After carrying out the work, he claimed further faults and said the lock needed full replacement. The couple said they felt pressured to agree, fearing they would be left with an unsecured home. They were later handed an invoice for £2,802, far exceeding the original quote and leaving them shocked and distressed.

The damage caused during the visit meant the couple had to pay another locksmith more than £2,200 to replace the entire door and frame. Investigators later found that the original lock could have been opened in seconds without drilling. As part of the investigation, a representative from the Master Locksmiths Association demonstrated several non destructive methods that trained locksmiths should routinely use. The association said complaints about suspected overcharging have risen steadily in recent years, warning that rogue operators often rely on aggressive marketing and paid search listings to appear legitimate. Experts say drilling is frequently used to justify higher charges, even when it is unnecessary and causes avoidable damage.

When confronted, the locksmith involved denied that a scam had taken place and blamed miscommunication, saying call handlers could not know what work would be required in advance. The company has not provided a formal response and its website now appears to be offline. Consumer advocates are urging Londoners to be cautious, advising residents to research reputable local locksmiths in advance rather than relying on urgent online searches. They also warn that extremely low quotes should be treated with suspicion and that customers should always ask for clear pricing before work begins. The investigation has renewed calls for stronger oversight and greater public awareness to prevent households from being hit with unexpected and excessive bills.