Whether you are facing a lockout emergency, the need to re-key, or plan a new lock installation, you are likely to have one thing in common. And that is the help of an experienced, skilled, and dependable locksmith.
A locksmith is essentially a trade professional skilled in the art of making – and defeating locks. They manage the task of selecting, installing, and maintaining lock-based products. From safes through to doors and automobiles, their handy workmanship ensures locks function as they should.
For many, our first encounter with a locksmith is in the case of a lock-out emergency. Stressful as this may be, their steady hands and cool demeanour work to get us on our way quickly. For others, this need is often in the planned residential or commercial space for lock replacements or new installations.
Now finding the right locally licenced locksmith technician can at times be a mission. Fortunately, we have done some of the leg work for you and selected our pick of the best locksmiths in Wagga.
What makes a great locksmith?
A great locksmith is always available, delivering quality outcomes quickly and efficiently for clients. The following attributes may help assess your next locksmith candidate:
- Qualified, licenced and insured. When searching for a locksmith, their credentials should be at the top of your list. The best locksmiths are highly skilled, offering years of practical experience and formal qualifications to match. Importantly, all locksmiths operating with New South Wales must hold a government issued Class 2 security licence. Finally, ensure any locksmith engaged is professionally insured.
- Accredited. A great way to source the region’s finest locksmiths is by narrowing the search to those with an industry accreditation. In Australia, these accreditations are issues by peak industry body, the Master Locksmiths Association. Here membership indicates that your trade is not only qualified for the job – but that they also adhere to strict ethical standards governing practise.
- Professional integrity. Within the security industry two simple words are known to separate the best from the rest – professional integrity. In a space where ultimate trust is sought, the best locksmiths conduct their business as meticulously as the trade itself. High standards here ensure clarity in stressful emergencies whilst offering peace of mind for services overall. To assess, peruse past client reviews and seek recommendations from family, colleagues, and friends.
- Quality outcomes. Security for oneself or one’s property is a consideration that deserves the best quality outcome. Low quality, ill-fitted lock solutions are counterproductive and contrary to their purpose. So, when seeking a locksmith select one that prioritises quality. Look for quality fixtures and fittings from reputable brands along with guaranteed work.
- Swift service. The best locksmiths are always available. Their round the clock offering ensures help is available when and where it is needed. Regardless of whether your needs are planned or a result of an emergency, seek a trade with reputation for punctuality and prompt execution.
The best locksmiths in Wagga
Region Riverina has combed through online reviews and recommendations to compile a list of the most recommended businesses according to you.
To be listed in our Best of Wagga series, each business needs to have consistently received positive feedback on Region Riverina and Facebook as well as maintaining a minimum average of 4/5 stars on Google.
Riverina Safes & Locks
With over thirty years in business, Riverina Safes & Locks have built an enviable reputation for their locksmithing and security system services. Known for their friendly approach and professional delivery they assist with many aspects across the home, office, factory, and farm.
As long time Master Locksmith members, their fully qualified and licensed technicians can assist with an extensive range of services from opening, repairing, and resetting safes, to all manner of key, lock, restricted system, and vehicle transponder keys.
Darcy Blomfield had this to say on Google, “Two jobs in a couple of days. Both required something a bit out of the ordinary. Completed in a short time and at a very reasonable cost for the work involved. Great service from the telephone reception right through to the technicians.”
Keys On The Move
Keys On The Move is a local locksmith service that specialises in automotive vehicle security. As a master locksmith with over thirty years’ experience, owner Steve and his team perform lock, key, and diagnostic testing services for cars, trucks, and motorcycles.
Specific services include new or duplicate keys and remotes, immobilising systems, vehicle diagnostics, and emergency lockout assistance. To ensure your vehicle keys and locks function as they should look no further than On The Move.
Susie Stimson shared this experience on Google, “Steven was fabulous in what for me was a pretty stressful situation. 10/10”
Next Generation Locksmiths
Newcomers, Next Generation Locksmiths are a locally owned operation run by two industry recognised Allan Axford Apprentice of the Year winners Charles McMahon and Lyndon Edgerton.
Providing all-encompassing solutions, Next Generation Locksmiths service offering includes residential, commercial, and automotive along with master key systems, safes, and electronic security. For professional, integrity, and competitive prices look to Next Generation Locksmiths.
Stuart Chalker shared this glowing review on Google, “I have never been so happy to deal with a tradie, professional, prompt, introduced themselves on arrival. I had all the keys in my house converted to a master key and they even asked if I needed help wiping old remotes from the memory of my garage door.. that is service, above and beyond! I know who I’m calling for everything in the future.”
Your experience with locksmiths in Wagga
Thanks to our commenters who have provided insightful feedback. If you believe we have got it wrong, please let us know.
Have you had experience with any of the locksmiths listed above? If so, share your feedback in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know whether a locksmith is qualified?
Qualified locksmiths hold a Certificate III in Engineering Mechanical Trade (Locksmith) and have completed a four-year locksmith apprenticeship. To practise their trade locksmiths are also required to hold a security licence.
Do locksmiths need to be licenced?
This requirement varies by state however in NSW, locksmiths are required to hold a state government issued Security Employee Licence, which is generally a Class 2 categorisation. You can check their licence number on the Service NSW website.
What does a locksmith charge for an emergency lock-out call?
Whilst the price charged varies depending on time of day, day of week, and distance travelled, expect to pay between $150-$350 for an emergency lock-out call. Any parts or products such as new keys are typically an additional charge.
Is it cheaper to rekey or replace locks?
On most occasions it is much more affordable to rekey existing locks. This is due to the price of key pins in the locks themselves, which tends to be cheaper than replacing and fitting a new lock.
Can a locksmith make a key without the original?
Yes, in most cases locksmiths can make keys without the original and the method used depends on the type of lock and whether it is fixed or not.