Locksmith FAQs Belfast — Common Questions About Our Service
Here are honest answers to the questions we get asked most. If your question isn't covered here, call 07549 347928 any time.
About All Hours NI
Are you a local Belfast locksmith or a national company?
We're a local Belfast-based locksmith service. When you call, you speak directly to the locksmith who'll attend your job. No call centres, no franchises, no national company routing calls to the nearest available contractor.
Are you qualified?
Yes — we're an experienced local locksmith and fully insured. Every job uses non-destructive entry as standard, with proper lock identification, security assessment and honest advice on whether a repair or replacement is right for your door.
What areas do you cover?
We cover Belfast city and surrounding areas including East Belfast, South Belfast, Lisburn, Bangor, Newtownards and Dundonald. Call 07549 347928 if unsure about your location.
Are you available 24 hours a day?
Yes. All Hours NI operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year — including all bank holidays, Christmas Day and New Year's Day.
Pricing
Do you charge a call-out fee?
No. We never charge a call-out fee. You pay only for the work carried out.
How much does an emergency lockout cost?
Pricing depends on the lock type, time of day and work required. We give you a clear quote over the phone before we leave. Call 07549 347928 for an honest figure — no commitment required.
Is it more expensive at night?
We don't charge a call-out fee at any time. Some late night work may carry a small uplift which we'll always be transparent about before starting. We'll never surprise you with a higher charge at the door.
Do you quote before you start?
Always. We quote before we leave. What we quote is what you pay. No extras at the door. We accept cash, card and bank transfer. Payment on completion.
Emergency Lockouts
How quickly can you get to me?
We aim to reach most Belfast locations quickly. For Lisburn, Bangor or Newtownards, allow 25–35 minutes. We give an actual arrival estimate, not a vague 'as soon as possible'.
Will you damage my door?
Non-destructive entry is always our first approach. In the vast majority of lockouts the door, lock and frame are completely undamaged. If drilling is genuinely necessary we explain the situation and get your agreement first.
What if I've lost my keys completely?
We can still get you in. We'd strongly recommend changing the locks afterwards — particularly if your keys had your address on them or may have been stolen.
I've locked my keys inside — can you help?
Absolutely. This is one of the most common callouts we receive. We'll have you back inside quickly and without damage in the vast majority of cases.
Do I need to prove I live at the property?
We may ask for reasonable proof — a driving licence, utility bill, or tenancy agreement. This is standard responsible practice and protects both you and the property.
What if it's a rented property?
Tenants have every right to access their home. We may ask to see your tenancy agreement. If there's any uncertainty, we can wait while you contact your landlord.
Do you work on Christmas Day?
Yes. We operate every single day of the year including Christmas Day, New Year's Day and all bank holidays in Northern Ireland.
Locks & Security
What is an anti-snap cylinder?
An anti-snap cylinder is a specially engineered euro cylinder designed to defeat lock snapping — the most common break-in method for UPVC and composite doors. When force is applied, a designated weak point sacrifices the outer section while the internal mechanism stays intact. We fit British Standard rated cylinders combining anti-snap, anti-drill, anti-pick and anti-bump resistance.
Do I need an anti-snap cylinder?
If your door is UPVC or composite with a standard euro cylinder, almost certainly yes. Standard cylinders offer very little resistance to snapping. The upgrade is quick, affordable and one of the most effective security improvements you can make.
Should I change my locks when moving into a new home?
Yes — we always recommend it. You have no way of knowing how many copies of the keys are in circulation. A lock change costs relatively little and gives you complete control over access.
What locks do you recommend for home security?
For UPVC/composite doors: British Standard anti-snap cylinders minimum. For timber doors: a 5-lever mortice deadlock to BS3621 standard. We're happy to advise on your specific situation.
Do you fit insurance-approved locks?
Yes. We're familiar with common home insurance lock requirements in Northern Ireland and can advise on and fit locks that meet your insurer's requirements.
My UPVC door won't lock — is that a locksmith job?
Yes. UPVC door mechanism problems — doors that won't lock at all points, dropped handles, failed multipoint mechanisms — are all within our remit.
Can you open a lock without the key?
Yes. Using professional non-destructive entry techniques, we can open the vast majority of residential and commercial locks without the original key and without causing damage.
Commercial & Landlord Questions
Do you do commercial locksmith work?
Yes. Full range of commercial services — emergency access, lock changes, rekeying, high-security installation, master key systems and more. Available 24/7 with no call-out fee.
Do you change locks for landlords between tenancies?
Yes. We carry out landlord lock changes regularly across Belfast. Usually same-day or next-day availability. Call 07549 347928 to arrange.
Can you set up a master key system for my business?
Yes. We design and fit master key systems for commercial premises of all sizes — different keys for different staff, one master key opens everything.
Still have a question?
Call 07549 347928 any time — we're happy to help.