Estate and letting agents are being warned about an increase in locksmith scams, as new data shows growing consumer concerns about fraudulent operators in the unregulated sector.
Research by The Perspicacity Life found 4,000 Google searches for “locksmith scam” in the past month, whilst searches for emergency locksmiths have increased by 60% over the past year. The figures highlight growing awareness of issues within a sector that property professionals frequently use for key cutting, lock changes and emergency call-outs at managed properties.
Regulatory gap creates risk
The locksmithing trade currently operates without formal regulation in the UK, which can allow unqualified or fraudulent operators to advertise services. Reports indicate some operators advertise low initial prices before increasing charges to hundreds of pounds once work has commenced.
Craig Andres, a master locksmith and founder of The Perspicacity Life, said: “Unfortunately, fraudster locksmiths prey on people in a vulnerable position, when they’re locked out of their homes or cars and needing immediate help. Rogue locksmiths benefit from customer’s urgency and are able to exploit them.”
Implications for property sector
The issue affects estate and letting agents who rely on locksmith services for property management operations. Agents may face increased costs or disputes if they inadvertently engage unqualified operators, whilst tenants locked out of rental properties represent a particular vulnerability point.
The lack of regulatory oversight in the locksmith sector contrasts with other trades commonly used by property professionals, where licensing or accreditation schemes provide consumer protections. The rising search volumes suggest increased consumer awareness of the issue, though no formal regulatory changes have been announced.
