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Locksmith

A locksmith fits, repairs and opens locks, and helps people who are locked out or want their home or business made more secure. It suits practical, trustworthy people who are good with their hands, enjoy problem-solving and like helping people in a fix.

Locksmith

4

Construction & Trades

AI IMPACT
AI USED FOR4%moving to49%
THE DOOR, NOWB
THE DOOR, 20 YRSD
STARTING PAYnot published
MOAT NOT YET CLASSIFIEDA real score, but the moat is not yet classified. No claim either way.

THE DOOR: A easy to E extremely hard, now and in 20 years

AI is used for very little of this work today
AI is used for very little of the day-to-day tasks in this job today. We have not yet classified what, if anything, structurally protects it, so we make no claim either way about a moat: the exposure score is the measured part. Learn the tools, and build the judgement that stays human.

The role

The work is fitting and changing locks, gaining entry when people are locked out, repairing and upgrading security, and advising customers on how to keep their property safe. Dexterity, patience and problem-solving matter, along with being honest and trustworthy, since you are given access to people's homes and security.

Many locksmiths are self-employed and on call, which can mean evenings, nights and weekends for emergencies, with income that depends on how busy you are. You travel to jobs with your own tools and van, and being reliable and reachable builds a good reputation.

There is no single legal qualification required, but most locksmiths train through a course or by learning alongside an experienced locksmith, and an apprenticeship route exists. Joining a recognised trade body, getting insurance and a clean background help reassure customers, and a driving licence is usually essential.

Daily responsibilities

  • Fit, change and repair locks
  • Gain entry for locked-out customers
  • Upgrade home and business security
  • Cut keys and replace cylinders
  • Advise customers on security options
  • Travel to jobs with tools and van
  • Manage bookings, callouts and invoices