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Lock help and advice from Brett

Not every lock problem starts as an emergency. A key becomes harder to turn, a handle feels different, or you need a better way for a relative to get inside.

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These guides explain the choices I discuss with customers and when it makes sense to arrange a check.

A lock or door has started playing up

A stiff lock and water damageWhat happened on a real Forsbrook job, and why the cause needs checking.Frozen locksAvoid forcing the key or pouring boiling water into the lock.Types of door locksThe difference between the cylinder, gearbox and full mechanism.

If you need a repair now, go straight to door won’t lock, door won’t open or snapped key.

Access for family, carers and guests

Key-safe fittingChoosing a position and a suitable safe, with supplied-and-fitted prices.An older relative’s homeKeeping the door manageable while planning access for people they trust.Holiday-let locks and key safesArrangements for guest keys and repairs between stays.

Looking after a property

Landlord lock changesPlanned residential changeovers and lost keys.Older doors and locksWhy the individual door matters more than its age.Garage, shed and gate locksExplain what needs securing before choosing hardware.Choosing a locksmithQuestions that help you understand the job and quote.

For costs, see my price guide. If you’re unsure where to start, call me on 07456 807068 and describe the problem in your own words.

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How this website was built

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Not sure which guide you need?

Describe what’s happening in your own words. The assistant answers from Brett’s guides, prices and service pages, and links the page each answer comes from.

Prices and advice from Brett’s own pages
Every answer links to the page it came from
Never type alarm codes, key-safe codes or ID details

Moorlands LocksmithsBrett GarnerMy AI assistant · answers 24/7

Locked out right now? Call 07456 807068

My front door key is getting stiff

Brett’s assistantA lock that’s getting harder to turn is worth checking before the key breaks. Don’t force it. Door alignment is usually £45–£65; a gearbox is £150–£180, supplied and fitted. A stiff lock is worth checking →

Quick questions

AI assistant. Answers can be wrong, so check prices with Brett. Never type alarm or key-safe codes.

Urgent

Locked out, or can’t lock up?

Ring me now. I’m open 24 hours, there’s no call-out fee, and getting you in is £65 at any hour.

07456 807068Urgent? Ring now Or WhatsApp me a photo

Can wait

A repair, a lock change or a key safe?

Pick a day and a time that suits you, and I’ll ring you to confirm. The price is agreed before I start.

Plan a visitCan wait? Pick a day