Frequently Asked Questions
- How much money can I expect to earn as a locksmith?
- Can I start trading as a locksmith after the course has been completed?
- What other tools would I need to purchase after the course?
- After successfully learning the lock opening skills on the course can you help with getting work etc.?
- What qualifications or authorisation do I need to be a trading locksmith?
- There are lots of training companies offering locksmith courses, why should I train with ACCESS UNLIMITED?
- Is it necessary to join a locksmith association?
- What if we get stuck on a job once we start trading as a locksmith?
1) How much money can I expect to earn as a locksmith?
Claims of £1000 to £2000 per week in the early stages of any business would be fantastic and probably not realistic (IF ONLY). In my own experience I was able to earn, after overheads, over £20K IN THE FIRST YEAR operating in a rural area Many locksmiths who have been trading over 12 months are earning £25 to £30K per annum and in some cases much more. But in all new business' you should be realistic in your expectations. You can make a good living as a mobile locksmith.
But the real answer to this one is based on you as a business person as much as it is based on how good you are as a locksmith and how much effort you want to put into getting started. It is not rocket science, skill at opening locks comes with practice, If you practice a little each day, up to an hour or so for the first few months, you will hone your skills. Being able to relate to customers is also very important, looking the part and being professional go a long way to being recommended.
With good advertising, a good business plan and control of your capital, and by ensuring your customer is 100% satisfied with your work, your business will grow. However, there are no guarantees, no training provider can guarantee you an income (unless you are on their payroll).
2) Can I start trading as a locksmith after the course has been completed?
Yes: The course is geared towards getting the door open, therefore satisfying your customers needs. On each day there are lock opening demonstrations, you then work individually practicing each technique, building your knowledge throughout the week. By the end of the week you will have the confidence to use the ALL the necessary lock opening techniques needed to trade successfully as a mobile locksmith.
3) What other tools would I need to purchase after the course?
You will leave with a small selection of tools as a starter kit. We will give you a list of additional tools that you may wish to purchase at a later date and also a list of suppliers. There is no need to spend a fortune to get started. Starting up costs, tools and stock will be discussed during the course. It is recommended that you obtain a supply of standard carpentry tools, and an electric drill and a limited lock stock. Additional costs will depend on the quality of the tools you purchase, however, good quality tools work better and last longer.
4) After successfully learning the lock opening skills on the course can you help with getting work etc.?
You will be given advice on setting up your business, suppliers and national bodies you may wish to join and on how and where to advertise. We will also give you help & direction in targeting those customers in your area that benefit from locksmith services.
5) What qualifications or authorisation do I need to be a trading locksmith?
In the UK today there are no recognised NVQ qualifications in locksmithing. Locksmiths (like many other trades) do not have a national register and there are currently no governmental or legal requirements you must fulfil before setting up and trading as a locksmith (over and above your standard insurance policies which we explain on the course). Some traders would require you to have a CRB check prior to trading.
6) There are lots of training companies offering locksmith courses, why should I train with ACCESS UNLIMITED?
The techniques that we teach on the course are those I have used myself over the past 15 years as a practising locksmith. We are one of only a few providers of a 5 day locksmith course aimed at getting you to start trading as soon as possible after the course is finished. We aim to deliver a course that covers all the necessary lock opening techniques at a very competitive price.
You with be provided with a good reference manual and a selection of tools to get you started.
7) Is it necessary to join a locksmith association?
In the UK there is no requirement to become a member of any locksmith association. There are companies that claim you will enhance your business by becoming a member. Only you can decide if what they have to offer is worth paying a subscription for.
8) What if we get stuck on a job once we start trading as a locksmith?
We aim to give you as many scenarios as possible throughout the 5 days of workshop modules in order to prepare you for real-life trading. At times you will get a job and wish you had never started it. The training we provide will help you identify your limitations and work to your strengths. If you find a particular job proves too difficult you can call for advice and we will aim to resolve any issues you may have.