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Your Trusted Locksmith in Chelmsford
Established as a family-run business over a decade ago, The Lock Father has grown into a trusted provider of residential and commercial locksmith services across Chelmsford and Essex. Our team of five DBS-checked locksmiths, personally trained by owner Andrew Marsh, delivers 24/7 emergency assistance and scheduled security solutions with a commitment to professionalism and technical expertise. Accredited by CHAS, Safe Contractor, and Trading Standards' Buy With Confidence scheme, we maintain rigorous health and safety standards while serving clients ranging from private homeowners to London Transport and Essex Police. Every service includes a 12-month guarantee, transparent pricing with no call-out fees, and access to advanced security solutions including anti-snap locks, mechanical access control, and burglary repair.

Our investment in fully equipped vehicles and continuous staff training ensures rapid response times under 15 minutes for emergencies, alongside comprehensive security consultations for long-term protection of properties. With over 6,500 high-security locks installed locally and recognition as the UK's Number 1 24-hour emergency locksmith, we combine technical excellence with community-focused service to maintain our position as Chelmsford's leading independent locksmith provider.
Services
Emergency Locksmith Lock Replacement Key Cutting Security Surveys Garage Security Burglary Repair Access Control Lock Rekeying Door Realignment Safe Installation
Highlights and features
  • DBS-checked team with over 10 years' local experience
  • 24/7 emergency response with sub-15 minute arrival times
  • 12-month guarantee on all workmanship
  • CHAS and Safe Contractor health & safety accreditations
  • Official contractors for London Transport and Essex Police
Associations and certifications
  • CHAS
  • Safe Contractor Approved
  • Buy With Confidence
  • Master Locksmiths Association
What people say
Highly recommended Quick response Professional service Trusted business Excellent workmanship
Services
Emergency Locksmith
Our 24/7 emergency locksmith service provides rapid response for lockouts, broken locks, and security breaches. With guaranteed arrival times under 15 minutes, we use non-destructive entry methods to resolve urgent access issues while maintaining property integrity. Clients benefit from immediate assistance without call-out charges.
Lock Replacement
We install high-security locks including anti-snap cylinders and British Standard kitemarked products. Our specialists replace compromised locks with advanced security solutions that meet insurance requirements. Each installation includes expert advice on appropriate security levels for residential and commercial properties.
Key Cutting
Offering mobile key cutting services for domestic, commercial, and vehicle locks. Our technicians use modern equipment to duplicate keys on-site, including restricted and high-security key systems. This service includes replacement for lost or damaged keys with immediate availability.
Security Surveys
We conduct comprehensive property security evaluations identifying vulnerabilities in existing lock systems. Our surveys recommend tailored security improvements including mechanical access control and burglary prevention measures. Businesses receive detailed reports aligned with health and safety compliance requirements.
Garage Security
Specialist garage door security solutions including lock upgrades, boarding services, and intrusion prevention systems. We address common weak points in garage security that connect to residential properties, providing robust protection against forced entry and tool attacks.
People
Andrew Marsh
Owner & Master Locksmith
With over 15 years' experience in the locksmith trade, Andrew personally trains all team members to ensure consistent high standards. He established The Lock Father's reputation for technical excellence and ethical service delivery, maintaining hands-on involvement in complex security projects.
Questions
Are your locksmiths qualified?
All our locksmiths are DBS-checked and receive ongoing training. We're accredited by CHAS, Safe Contractor, and Trading Standards' Buy With Confidence scheme.
What are your emergency service costs?
Labour charges vary by time, with no call-out fees. High-security lock installations start at £60, with transparent pricing provided before work begins.
Will you damage my door during entry?
We use non-destructive entry methods as standard. Drilling is only used as a last resort to protect your property's integrity during emergency access.
How quickly can you respond?
Our guaranteed response time is under 15 minutes for emergencies, with average arrival times of 20-30 minutes across Chelmsford and surrounding areas.
Do you offer commercial security solutions?
We provide advanced commercial services including access control systems, security surveys, and mechanical locking solutions for businesses of all sizes.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept cash, credit cards, and debit cards for all services, with no additional fees for card payments.