How to Choose a Locksmith in Singapore — and Avoid Overcharging

When you're locked out, you want help fast — and that's exactly when people get overcharged. You're stressed, it's late, and the first number you find might not be the right one. Here's how to choose a locksmith you can trust, from Uncle Thomas, who has been in the trade since 1998.

1. Get the total price before anyone sets off

Describe your lock, or better, send a photo on WhatsApp, and ask: "What will the total be, including transport?" A good locksmith gives a clear figure, or a narrow range and exactly what would change it — for example, "S$80 to open it; if the lock is broken, a new lock is S$X extra." If a locksmith refuses to give any figure until they see the door, ask why.

Write down or screenshot the price you were quoted. If it changes at your door, you have something to point to.

2. Be careful with very low advertised prices

An advert that seems far cheaper than everyone else can be a sign of bait pricing: a low "call-out" or "starting" price that grows with extra charges once the locksmith arrives — "special tools", "after-hours surcharge", "high-security lock". Compare a few locksmiths' published prices. In 2026, published prices for a standard daytime lockout in Singapore generally start from around S$80–S$90, with higher rates after hours. Ours are on our prices page and explained in our locksmith cost guide.

3. Check real, recent reviews

Look at the locksmith's Google reviews. Focus on recent ones, and on reviews that mention price and honesty, not just speed. A few bad reviews among many good ones is normal; repeated complaints about prices changing on site are a red flag. Check that the business name on the reviews matches the one you're calling.

4. Expect an ID check — it's a good sign

An honest locksmith will ask for proof that you live there before opening your door — an NRIC with the address, a tenancy agreement, a bill or a letter. Some people find this annoying in the moment, but think about it the other way round: a locksmith who opens any door without checking would do the same for a stranger trying to get into your home.

5. Ask about damage-free entry

Most lockouts can be opened without drilling or damaging the door. If a locksmith goes straight for the drill, ask why, and ask what a replacement lock will cost before they start. Drilling a lock out is sometimes necessary — for a broken lock body or some high-security locks — but it shouldn't be the first move on a standard HDB lock.

6. Ask about the warranty

If a lock is replaced or installed, ask what warranty comes with the work and for how long. A locksmith who stands behind their work will tell you clearly. Uncle Thomas covers every lock replacement and installation with a warranty that has no expiry date.

7. Get a receipt

Ask for a receipt or invoice showing the business name, what was done, and what you paid. You'll need it if anything goes wrong with the lock, and it helps if there's a dispute.

Warning signs to watch for

• No business name when they answer the phone, or a different name on arrival.
• Refusing to give any price over the phone, even a range.
• A price that changes once they see you're desperate.
• Going straight to drilling on a standard lock.
• Not asking for any proof of residence.
• Pressure to pay in cash only, with no receipt.

If you think you've been overcharged

Stay calm and ask for an itemised receipt. If you can't resolve it with the locksmith, the Consumers Association of Singapore (CASE) can advise you on your options. Keep your messages, the quoted price and the receipt.

What it costs

With Uncle Thomas, door lockouts start from S$80 (9am–6pm) and S$120 after hours, weekends and public holidays; digital lock opening from S$150; car lockouts from S$100; lock replacement from S$100; and letterbox locks from S$60. Safes are quoted per job. The price we agree is the price you pay.

A quick checklist to save on your phone

1. Business name?
2. Total price, including transport?
3. What could change the price?
4. Will you check my ID?
5. Damage-free first?
6. Warranty on any new lock?
7. Receipt?

Questions to ask on the phone — and what good answers sound like

• "What's the total price?" Good: a figure or a narrow range with reasons. Worrying: "Depends, we'll see when we get there," with no range at all.
• "How do you open the lock?" Good: "Damage-free first; if that's not possible, I'll explain options before doing anything." Worrying: "We'll just drill it."
• "Do you check ID?" Good: "Yes, we'll need proof you live there." Worrying: "No need."
• "Is there a warranty on a new lock?" Good: a clear yes and how long. Worrying: no answer.
• "What's your business name?" Good: a name you can check on Google. Worrying: hesitation.

After the job

• Check that the lock works smoothly with every key, from inside and outside, before the locksmith leaves.
• Count your new keys and keep one spare somewhere safe outside the home.
• Keep the receipt with the date, work done and warranty details.
• If you were happy, leave an honest review — it helps other people find a trustworthy locksmith.

Why this matters in Singapore

Locksmiths in Singapore are not individually licensed in the way some trades are, so the burden is on customers to check who they're calling. Reviews, published prices, a real business name and a locksmith who checks ID are your best signals.

Finally, save a trusted locksmith's number in your phone before you need one. Searching in a panic at midnight is when people are most likely to call the wrong number.