Locksmith Questions Answered by Inta-Lock
Everything you need to know about our locksmith services in Oakham, Rutland and across the East Midlands. Can't find your answer? Call us on 01572 503203.
Why do customers choose Inta-Lock?
With 57+ five-star Google reviews, customers consistently highlight the same reasons for choosing Inta-Lock: we answer the phone personally, we arrive when we say we will, we explain the work clearly before starting and we charge a fair, upfront price.
We are DBS checked, NNAL registered, NCFE qualified and fully SERMI accredited. We are also used by Leicestershire Police and Northamptonshire Police for emergency access work — a trust relationship built on our reliability and credentials, not a paid badge.
Unlike national locksmith chains, you deal with one person throughout. The person who answers the phone is the person who arrives at your door — every time. Read our Google reviews to see what customers say in their own words.
Are you available 24 hours a day, including weekends?
Yes. Inta-Lock is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year — including weekends, bank holidays and Christmas. Emergency lockouts and urgent security jobs are our priority at any hour.
Call 01572 503203 at any time and we will answer personally.
What is Inta-Lock Locksmiths and where are you based?
Inta-Lock Locksmiths is a local, independent locksmith business based at The King Centre in Oakham, Rutland. We provide residential locksmith services, commercial locksmith services and SERMI accredited auto locksmith services across Rutland, Leicestershire, Northamptonshire, Lincolnshire and Cambridgeshire.
When you call Inta-Lock, you deal directly with your locksmith — no call centres, no subcontractors. The person who answers the phone is the person who arrives at your door.
Are you available 24 hours a day?
Yes. Inta-Lock is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year — including bank holidays and Christmas. We understand that lockouts and security emergencies don't follow business hours.
For emergency lockouts in Oakham and Rutland, we aim to reach you as quickly as possible. Call us any time on 01572 503203.
How do you price your work?
We provide a clear, upfront quote before starting any work. You know the exact price before we begin — no hidden charges and no surprises on the bill.
Prices vary depending on the job type, parts required and time of day. We carry Avocet ABS, ASSA ABLOY and other leading lock brands on the van, which means most jobs can be completed in a single visit without additional supply costs.
Do you offer a guarantee on your work?
Yes. All locksmith work carried out by Inta-Lock is backed by a guarantee on both parts and labour. If you experience any issue with work we have completed, call us and we will return to resolve it.
We use only quality-approved lock brands including Avocet ABS and ASSA ABLOY — both carry their own manufacturer's warranty in addition to our workmanship guarantee.
Do I need to show proof of ownership before you help me?
We have a responsibility to verify that you are the legal occupant or owner of the property or vehicle before carrying out any access work. In practice, this is straightforward — most customers can provide ID, utility bills, vehicle documents or other reasonable evidence of ownership.
This is standard practice for all reputable locksmiths and is part of what the NNAL (National Network of Approved Locksmiths) recommends its members follow. Our Enhanced DBS check also forms part of the trust framework we operate within.
How much does a locksmith cost?
Locksmith prices vary depending on the type of job, the parts required, the time of day and your location. We always provide a clear, upfront quote before starting any work — you know the exact price before we begin.
Key factors that affect the price:
- Job type — opening a lock is typically less expensive than replacing it. A uPVC mechanism repair costs more than a cylinder change.
- Parts required — standard cylinders cost less than high security anti-snap options. Car keys vary significantly by vehicle make and model.
- Time of day — emergency callouts at night or on bank holidays reflect the out-of-hours nature of the work.
- Location — callouts further from Oakham may carry a travel element.
Call 01572 503203 with your location and job details and we will give you a fixed quote on the spot before committing to anything.
How much does a lock change cost?
The cost of a lock change depends on the type of lock being replaced and whether you want to upgrade to a higher security option at the same time.
- Standard euro cylinder replacement — the most common and most affordable option, suitable for uPVC and composite doors
- Anti-snap euro cylinder upgrade — slightly higher cost but strongly recommended. Avocet ABS and ASSA ABLOY TS007 3-star cylinders provide significantly better protection against the most common burglary method
- Mortice lock replacement — costs more due to the complexity of the fitting, particularly on older doors
We carry stock on the van, so most lock changes can be completed in a single visit with no delay. Call for a specific quote for your door and lock type.
How much does a spare car key or replacement car key cost?
Car key prices vary considerably depending on your vehicle make, model and year. Modern vehicles with advanced transponder chips and keyless entry fobs cost more to programme than older vehicles with basic keys.
Factors that affect the price:
- Vehicle make and model — premium brands (BMW, Mercedes, Audi, Land Rover) tend to have more complex key systems
- Key type — a basic cut key is cheaper than a transponder key or a proximity fob with push-start
- Number of keys remaining — programming from scratch (no working keys) requires more specialist work than cutting a spare from an existing key
- SERMI-required vehicles — cars manufactured from approximately 2020 onwards may require SERMI-restricted data to programme, which we are fully accredited to access
In almost all cases, we are significantly less expensive than a main dealer for car key replacement. Call with your vehicle registration and we will give you an upfront quote.
How much does a Ghost 2 immobiliser cost to install?
The cost of supplying and fitting an Autowatch Ghost 2 immobiliser depends on your vehicle make and model, as installation complexity varies. Some vehicles have more accessible wiring than others.
It is worth weighing the installation cost against the value of your vehicle and the cost of replacement if it were stolen. Keyless relay attacks have become one of the most common vehicle theft methods in the UK — the Ghost 2 provides reliable protection that cannot be defeated even with a cloned or stolen key.
Some motor insurance providers will also reduce your premium upon proof of a Thatcham-approved immobiliser installation, which can offset part of the cost over time. Call for a quote for your specific vehicle.
Do you charge extra for night or weekend callouts?
Out-of-hours callouts — particularly overnight and on bank holidays — do reflect the nature of the work. We are clear about any time-related elements in our upfront quote before you commit to anything.
We will always give you a fixed, all-inclusive price before starting. There are no hidden charges added after the job is complete.
I'm locked out of my house — what should I do?
Call Inta-Lock immediately on 01572 503203. We will ask a few quick questions about your door type and lock, give you an upfront quote and get to you as quickly as possible.
Do not attempt to force entry yourself — this risks damaging the door frame, the lock mechanism or even injuring yourself. Most emergency lockouts can be resolved non-destructively, meaning your door and lock are left intact. We replace the lock or cylinder only if it is genuinely beyond repair.
While you wait, stay safe — particularly if it is late at night. If you have concerns about your safety, contact Leicestershire Police or Northamptonshire Police.
How quickly can you reach me in an emergency?
For emergency callouts in Oakham, Rutland and the surrounding area, we aim to arrive as quickly as possible — often within the hour. Exact response times depend on your location and current traffic conditions.
Call 01572 503203 and we will give you an accurate estimated arrival time. We cover 35+ locations across Rutland, Leicestershire, Northamptonshire, Lincolnshire and Cambridgeshire.
Can you open my door without damaging it?
In the vast majority of cases, yes. Our first approach is always non-destructive entry — using specialist tools and techniques to open the door without drilling or breaking the lock. This is the preferred approach for uPVC, composite and timber doors.
Non-destructive entry is possible even when a key has snapped inside the barrel, the lock is faulty or the door has dropped on its hinges. Destructive entry (drilling) is only used as a last resort when the lock cannot be picked or manipulated.
We also carry out uPVC door repairs if the mechanism has failed — in many cases a door that won't lock is a mechanism fault, not a lock problem.
My key has snapped in the lock — can you help?
Yes, this is one of the most common callouts we receive. A snapped key in a euro cylinder is usually straightforward to resolve. We extract the broken key using specialist tools, then assess whether the cylinder can be retained or needs replacing.
If the cylinder is a standard type, we carry replacements on the van and can fit a new one on the same visit. We would always recommend upgrading to an Avocet ABS anti-snap cylinder at this point — a standard euro cylinder can be snapped in under 30 seconds by a burglar, whereas ABS cylinders are engineered to resist this attack method.
My uPVC door won't lock — is this a locksmith job?
Yes. A uPVC door that won't lock, won't close properly or is stiff and difficult to operate is almost always a uPVC door mechanism issue rather than a lock fault. The multipoint locking mechanism inside the door can wear out, break or drop out of alignment.
We carry out full uPVC door repairs including gearbox replacement, hinge adjustment, handle replacement and realignment. Most uPVC mechanism repairs can be completed in a single visit. This is far cheaper than replacing the door and, in most cases, the door performs as well as new afterwards.
I've been burgled and my lock is damaged — what should I do first?
Call the police first to report the burglary and obtain a crime reference number for your insurance. Do not touch or move anything until the police have attended if possible.
Once the police have finished, call Inta-Lock on 01572 503203. We carry out emergency lock changes following burglaries and can secure your property quickly. We would strongly recommend upgrading to a high security anti-snap cylinder at this point — snap attacks account for the majority of domestic burglaries in the UK.
Keep your crime reference number safe — you will need it when claiming on your home insurance for any work carried out.
What is lock snapping and how do I protect against it?
Lock snapping is the most common method used to break into properties fitted with uPVC and composite doors. A burglar inserts a tool, snaps the euro cylinder barrel and removes the internal mechanism — the whole process takes under 30 seconds on a standard cylinder.
The solution is to replace standard cylinders with TS007 3-star rated anti-snap cylinders. We fit Avocet ABS and ASSA ABLOY cylinders, which are engineered with a sacrificial snap point — if forced, the outer section breaks away harmlessly while the inner mechanism protecting the door remains intact.
Key features of anti-snap cylinders:
- TS007 3-star rating — the UK standard for snap resistance
- Also resistant to picking, drilling and key bumping
- Direct replacement for your existing euro cylinder — no door modification required
- Compatible with uPVC, composite and aluminium doors
You can read more about anti-snap technology on the Avocet Security website.
Can you change my locks the same day?
Yes, in most cases. We carry a full stock of euro cylinders, mortice locks and other common lock types on the van — including Avocet ABS and ASSA ABLOY anti-snap options. Same-day lock changes are available across Rutland, Leicestershire and Northamptonshire.
If you need a specific or less common lock type, we will source it and arrange a return visit as quickly as possible — usually within 24–48 hours.
What is the difference between a euro cylinder, a mortice lock and a rim lock?
Euro cylinders are the most common lock type in the UK, fitted into uPVC, composite and aluminium doors. They are the cylinder you see in the middle of the door handle. Standard euro cylinders are vulnerable to snap attacks — we recommend upgrading to an anti-snap version.
Mortice locks are fitted into the body of a timber door rather than on its surface. They are generally more secure than euro cylinders and are common in older properties. British Standard 5-lever mortice locks offer a high level of security and are required by most home insurance policies for external doors.
Rim locks (also called night latches or Yale locks) are surface-mounted and are often used as a secondary lock on front doors. They should always be used alongside a mortice lock rather than as a standalone security measure.
Not sure which lock type you have? Call us on 01572 503203 and we will advise.
I'm moving into a new home — should I change the locks?
Yes, always. You have no way of knowing how many copies of the keys exist or who holds them — previous owners, estate agents, builders, cleaners or neighbours may all have been given keys at some point.
A lock change on all external doors is the most effective way to secure a new property. This is also a good opportunity to upgrade to anti-snap cylinders if the existing locks are standard euro cylinders — which most modern properties will have on uPVC or composite doors.
We can carry out a full property security assessment on the same visit and advise on any additional measures worth considering.
Can you install or open a safe?
Yes. We carry out safe installation and safe opening across Rutland and the East Midlands. Whether you need a new safe fitted, have forgotten the combination or are dealing with a mechanical fault, we can help.
Safe opening without damage is a specialist skill and the approach varies depending on the safe type and manufacturer. Call us to discuss your specific situation and we will advise on the best approach.
I've lost my car keys — what are my options?
Losing car keys is stressful but it is a problem we resolve on a daily basis. As a fully SERMI accredited auto locksmith, Inta-Lock is authorised to programme replacement keys for all modern European vehicles — including those with advanced manufacturer security systems that most locksmiths cannot access.
Your options depend on how many key sets you have remaining:
- Lost all keys: We cut and programme a new key on site using specialist equipment. All lost keys are erased from the vehicle ECU so they can never be used to start the car.
- Have one key remaining: We can cut and programme a spare car key from your existing key — strongly recommended so you are never left without a backup.
For more information, see our lost car keys page.
I'm locked out of my car — can you help?
Yes. Car lockouts are one of our most common callouts. Whether you have locked your keys inside, your key fob battery has died, the remote has stopped working or the lock mechanism has failed — we can get you back into your vehicle.
We use non-destructive entry techniques wherever possible to avoid any damage to your vehicle. Call 01572 503203 and we will give you an estimated arrival time and an upfront quote.
What is SERMI accreditation and why does it matter?
SERMI (Security Related Repair and Maintenance Information) is the European vehicle security accreditation scheme that authorises locksmiths and garages to access manufacturer-level security data for key programming on modern vehicles.
Since the introduction of the EU Regulation on type approval (EU 2018/858), manufacturers are required to restrict access to vehicle security information to accredited technicians only. Without SERMI accreditation, a locksmith cannot legally programme keys for many modern European vehicles.
Inta-Lock holds full SERMI accreditation — one of a small number of locksmiths in Rutland and Leicestershire to do so. This means we can programme replacement keys for all modern vehicles including those from Volkswagen Group, Stellantis, Renault Group, BMW Group, Mercedes-Benz and others.
You can verify SERMI accreditation at sermi.org.
Can you cut and programme a key for any make of car?
We programme keys for all modern European vehicle makes including Volkswagen, Audi, Seat, Skoda, Ford, Vauxhall, Peugeot, Citroen, Renault, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota, Honda and many more.
For vehicles requiring SERMI-restricted security data — which includes most cars manufactured after 2020 — our full SERMI accreditation allows us to access manufacturer security systems legally and programme keys correctly. See our car key replacement page for more detail.
We also carry out transponder key programming for vehicles where the key contains a chip that must be coded to the immobiliser.
What is the Autowatch Ghost 2 immobiliser?
The Autowatch Ghost 2 is an aftermarket CAN bus immobiliser designed to protect modern vehicles from keyless theft, relay attacks and key cloning. It is hidden within the vehicle's wiring — undetectable by diagnostic equipment — and requires the driver to enter a unique PIN sequence before the vehicle will start.
Key facts:
- Thatcham Category S7 approved
- Works on all modern vehicles including those with keyless entry and push-start
- Even with a cloned or stolen key, the vehicle cannot be driven without the PIN
- Concealed installation — invisible to thieves and undetectable by OBD scanners
- May reduce your vehicle insurance premium
Inta-Lock is SERMI accredited and fully authorised to install the Ghost 2 across all modern vehicles. View the Autowatch Ghost 2 official product page for full technical information.
Is it cheaper to get car keys from a locksmith or a main dealer?
In almost all cases, a mobile auto locksmith is significantly less expensive than a main dealer for car key cutting and programming. Main dealers typically charge a premium for the same programming work that a SERMI accredited locksmith can carry out on site at your location.
There is also a practical advantage — we come to you. If you have no working keys at all, you cannot drive to a dealer. We programme keys on site, wherever you are across Rutland and the East Midlands.
Is your locksmith DBS checked?
Yes. The locksmith behind Inta-Lock holds a current Enhanced DBS (Disclosure & Barring Service) certificate — the highest level of government background check available. This check covers criminal records and other relevant information and is renewed regularly.
When you invite a locksmith into your home or business, you have a right to know they are a safe and trustworthy individual. Our Enhanced DBS certificate provides exactly that assurance. You can ask to see it at any time.
Are you a member of the NNAL?
Yes. Inta-Lock is a registered member of the NNAL (National Network of Approved Locksmiths). NNAL membership requires locksmiths to meet defined professional standards covering training, insurance, conduct and customer service.
NNAL membership provides independent verification that we operate to a recognised professional standard. You can verify our membership directly on the NNAL website.
What does NCFE qualified mean?
NCFE is a nationally recognised awarding body in the UK. Our NCFE qualification in locksmithing covers the full technical curriculum — lock types and mechanisms, non-destructive entry techniques, key cutting, lock fitting, security assessment and automotive locksmithing.
It is a formal vocational qualification that demonstrates our locksmith has received structured, assessed training rather than simply learning on the job. You can find out more about NCFE qualifications at ncfe.org.uk.
Are you trusted by the police?
Yes. Inta-Lock is used by Leicestershire Police and Northamptonshire Police for emergency access work — including property lockouts and welfare checks where safe, non-destructive entry is required.
This is a direct working relationship built on the quality of our work, our vetted credentials and our reliability. It is not a paid accreditation or a badge that can be purchased.
It is worth noting that police forces cannot formally endorse or recommend private tradespeople — the correct and accurate description is that Inta-Lock is “used by” these forces, not “approved by” them.
Are you fully insured?
Yes. Inta-Lock carries full public liability insurance for all residential, commercial and auto locksmith work. This covers any damage or loss that might occur as a result of our work — giving you complete peace of mind.
We are happy to provide evidence of insurance cover on request. If a locksmith is unable or unwilling to provide proof of insurance, we would recommend using a different provider.
How do I know a locksmith is legitimate?
Unfortunately, rogue locksmiths operating with misleading local phone numbers and inflated prices are a known problem in the UK. Here is what to look for when choosing a locksmith:
Check for:
- NNAL or MLA (Master Locksmiths Association) membership — both require vetted professional standards
- Enhanced DBS certificate — ask to see it on arrival
- A fixed, local address — not just a phone number
- Clear upfront pricing before work begins
- Verified Google reviews from real customers in your area
You can check NNAL membership at nnal.org.uk and MLA membership at locksmiths.co.uk. Citizens Advice also publishes guidance on choosing a trustworthy tradesperson.
Do you cover Oakham and Rutland?
Yes — Oakham is our base. We cover the whole of Rutland including Oakham, Uppingham, Stamford, Cottesmore, Empingham, Edith Weston, Langham and Whissendine. For emergency callouts within Oakham itself, we can usually be with you very quickly.
Do you cover Leicester and Leicestershire?
Yes. We cover Leicester city and all major Leicestershire towns including Melton Mowbray, Loughborough, Hinckley, Market Harborough, Lutterworth, Oadby and Wigston. See our Leicester locksmith page for more detail.
Do you cover Northamptonshire?
Yes. We cover Corby, Kettering, Northampton, Wellingborough, Daventry, Oundle, Towcester and Rothwell in Northamptonshire. This is also the area covered by Northamptonshire Police, one of the two forces we work alongside.
Do you cover Lincolnshire and Cambridgeshire?
Yes. We cover Grantham, Bourne and Market Deeping in Lincolnshire, and Peterborough, Whittlesey, March and Huntingdon in Cambridgeshire.
I'm not sure if you cover my area — how do I check?
The easiest way is to call us on 01572 503203 — we will confirm immediately whether we cover your location. You can also see the full list of 35 locations on our areas we cover page.
If your location is not listed, call anyway. Depending on job type and time of day, we may still be able to reach you.
Do you charge extra for areas further from Oakham?
We provide an upfront quote that accounts for your location before any work begins. There are no surprise charges after the job — the price quoted is the price you pay.
Call 01572 503203 with your location and job details and we will give you a clear, fixed quote on the spot.
How quickly can you reach Oakham?
Oakham is our base, so for emergency callouts in Oakham town centre and the immediate surrounding area — including The King Centre, Braunston, and Barleythorpe — we can typically arrive faster than for more distant locations. Call 01572 503203 and we will give you an accurate ETA based on current conditions.
How quickly can you reach Stamford?
Stamford is one of our most frequent callout areas — approximately 15 minutes from Oakham depending on traffic. We cover all parts of Stamford including the town centre, Uffington, Barnack and the surrounding villages. See our Stamford locksmith page for more detail.
How quickly can you reach Uppingham?
Uppingham is approximately 10 minutes from Oakham. We regularly serve customers in Uppingham and the surrounding villages including Caldecott, Lyddington and Seaton. See our Uppingham locksmith page for more information.
Do you cover Corby, Kettering and Northampton?
Yes. We cover Corby, Kettering, Northampton, Wellingborough, Daventry, Oundle, Towcester and Rothwell. These areas also fall within the Northamptonshire Police area — one of the two forces we work alongside for emergency access work.
Do you cover Peterborough and Grantham?
Yes. We cover Peterborough, Whittlesey, March and Huntingdon in Cambridgeshire, and Grantham, Bourne and Market Deeping in Lincolnshire.
Still Have a Question?
Call Inta-Lock directly on 01572 503203 — we answer personally and will give you a clear, honest answer. No call centres, no scripts.