Lost keys, locked doors

Losing your keys or locking yourself out with your keys inside is a situation that can happen to anyone. How should you handle it? Should you call a locksmith or a metalworker? And who is the right professional to open a safe? How can you ensure quality service at a reasonable price? This article will guide you through these questions.

LOCKSMITH VS. METALWORKER – WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?

In some languages, the term locksmith applies to both professionals who work with locks and those who work with metal structures. However, in Czech, there is a distinction:

A locksmith (zámkař) specializes in working with locks, keys, safes, and security systems. Their expertise includes key duplication, lock repairs, and non-destructive entry.
A metalworker (zámečník) focuses on metal structures, such as gates, railings, doors, and other metal fabrications.

Historically, metalworking evolved from blacksmithing. Blacksmiths worked with iron using heat, while metalworkers shaped and assembled metal parts using cutting, drilling, and filing techniques. Over time, a separate specialization emerged for working with locks and keys—this became the field of locksmithing.

Despite this distinction, many metalworkers in the Czech Republic still advertise lock-related services, even though they lack the proper training and certification. Conversely, some certified locksmiths refer to themselves as metalworkers simply because the term locksmith is not widely recognized by the general public.

For any lock-related issue, always ensure you are calling a professional locksmith, not a metalworker, as the latter may not have the necessary skills or authorization for working with security systems.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT LOCKSMITH?

If you find yourself locked out, have lost your keys, or need to access a security system, always call a certified locksmith. A professional locksmith has the proper tools and expertise to handle the situation efficiently and with minimal damage.

When contacting a locksmith, be prepared to provide:

Proof of ownership (e.g., an ID with your address, car registration papers)
A clear description of the issue (locked door, broken key, malfunctioning safe lock)
Your location

A reputable locksmith will always verify that you have the legal right to access the property before proceeding with the service. This not only protects you but also ensures that locksmith services are not misused for unauthorized access.

WHO TO CALL FOR SAFE LOCKS?

Opening safe locks is a specialized skill within locksmithing. Not all locksmiths (and certainly not metalworkers) have the knowledge and tools required for working with safes. If your safe is locked and you cannot access it, it is crucial to call a locksmith who specializes in safes. Always check whether they use non-destructive techniques. Some locksmiths may immediately resort to drilling, which can destroy your safe and require costly replacement. A skilled safe locksmith, however, can open most safes without damage using specialized tools such as mechanical or electronic decoders.

COST AND QUALITY OF SERVICE

The cost of locksmith services depends on factors such as the type of lock, the complexity of the issue, and the time of day. Emergency services during evenings, weekends, and holidays are typically more expensive. A professional locksmith will provide a price estimate over the phone and explain their method before starting the job. Be cautious of unqualified metalworkers offering cheaper services—they may end up damaging your locks or doors, leading to additional expenses.

A skilled locksmith can:

Open 99% of non-locked doors without damage
Open most modern car locks without destruction
Open 80% of safes using non-destructive methods

Some people consider calling emergency services (firefighters or police) instead of a locksmith. While this may be justified in cases of life-threatening emergencies (e.g., a child locked inside or a fire hazard), firefighters will typically force entry, causing damage to your door, lock, and frame. In addition, misuse of emergency services can lead to fines of up to 20,000 CZK (approx. $900).

If you lose your keys or lock yourself out, make sure you call a qualified locksmith, not a general metalworker. A professional locksmith can save you time, money, and unnecessary damage. To be prepared, save the contact information of a trusted locksmith in your phone—it could be a lifesaver in an emergency.