Business Details
42 Years
experience
Emergency
services
24/7 Locksmith Services in Reading
Abbey Gate Locksmiths is a family-run business with over 36 years of experience in the security industry. Established in 1984, we are proud members of the Master Locksmiths Association and adhere to British standards through rigorous training and certifications. Our team of DBS-checked professionals provides a comprehensive range of services, including emergency locksmith solutions, safe installation and maintenance, key cutting, and advanced security systems. Operating from our base in Reading, we serve a 50-mile radius across Berkshire, Oxfordshire, Hampshire, Buckinghamshire, and Surrey. All our engineers are supported by 5 million public liability insurance, ensuring complete client confidence.We specialise in both residential and commercial security, offering tailored solutions such as fire door compliance, electronic access control, and vintage lock restoration. Our commitment to quality is reflected in our meticulous attention to detail, from crafting bespoke keys to decommissioning obsolete vaults. With a fleet of fully equipped vehicles and a workshop in Caversham, we deliver rapid response times and precision engineering. Our reputation for reliability and expertise has been built through decades of solving complex security challenges for homeowners, landlords, and businesses.
Services
Emergency Locksmith
Safe Installation
Key Cutting
Security Surveys
Fire Door Compliance
Glazing and Boarding
Access Control
Lock Repair
Vault Decommissioning
CCTV Installation
Details
- Year established: 1984
Highlights and features
- We have over 36 years of experience in security engineering.
- All staff hold full DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks.
- We provide 24/7 emergency locksmith services with real-time updates.
- Our engineers are covered by 5 million public liability insurance.
- We are members of the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA).
Associations and certifications
- Master Locksmiths Association (MLA)
What people say
Excellent service
Prompt and detailed quotation
Professional and friendly
Saved Christmas crisis
Resolved complex lock issues
Services
Emergency Locksmith
Our 24/7 emergency locksmith service resolves lockouts, broken locks, and lost keys for homes and businesses. Engineers arrive equipped with specialist tools to gain non-destructive entry while minimising damage to doors and frames. We operate across Berkshire and surrounding counties, with real-time updates on arrival times. All callouts are handled by DBS-checked professionals insured to 5 million. Common interventions include lock snapping repairs, cylinder replacements, and UPVC door realignment.
Safe Installation
We supply, install, and maintain fireproof, high-security, and antique safes for domestic and commercial use. Our engineers handle floor-standing, underfloor, and wall-mounted safes with options for combination locks, electronic access, or traditional key systems. We also decommission obsolete vaults and remove asbestos-containing models. Bespoke solutions include concrete plinth construction and integration with existing security systems. All installations comply with insurance guidelines and manufacturer specifications.
Key Cutting
Our key-cutting service covers standard, dimple, and vintage keys using manual and machine techniques. We provide replacements for restricted locks, mortice cylinders, and safe combinations. A mobile service operates in East and West Berkshire for elderly or disabled clients. Specialist capabilities include restoring worn key bits and producing duplicates from code numbers. The workshop also offers hand-filing for antique lock restoration projects.
Access Control
We design and install access control systems using Paxton and CDVI technologies for offices, apartment blocks, and commercial premises. Solutions range from standalone smart locks to networked systems managing 3,000+ doors. Features include timed access restrictions, audit trails, and integration with CCTV or intercoms. Demonstrations are available at our Reading showroom, with options for smartphone-controlled Ultion SMART locks combining mechanical and digital access methods.
Glazing and Boarding
Our boarding service secures properties after break-ins, fires, or vandalism using plywood and security screens. We replace broken glass in windows and doors with laminated, toughened, or float glass options. Additional services include installing Perspex shields for reception areas and repairing window mechanisms. Emergency boarding covers Reading, Newbury, Basingstoke, and surrounding villages, with rapid response to prevent further damage from weather or intruders.
People
Steve Underwood
Director
With over 36 years in the security industry, Steve founded Abbey Gate Locksmiths to combine traditional locksmithing with modern security solutions. He oversees operations across Berkshire and manages complex projects like vault decommissioning and high-security installations.
Alexander Underwood
Senior Engineer
Alexander leads residential security projects, specialising in UPVC door repairs, smart lock installations, and emergency callouts. He manages client consultations and ensures compliance with safety standards during on-site work.
Ben Prozzo
Locksmith Engineer
Based in Reading, Ben handles emergency lockouts, key cutting, and commercial security upgrades. He is certified in access control systems and frequently assists with fire door compliance checks for landlords.
Perry Knight
Locksmith Engineer
Perry serves Maidenhead and surrounding areas, focusing on safe installation, lock repairs, and security surveys. He provides technical expertise for vintage lock restoration and mechanical access solutions.
Questions
Do you offer 24/7 emergency locksmith services?
Yes, our 24-hour emergency service covers Reading, Newbury, Basingstoke, and surrounding areas with real-time engineer updates.
Can you repair antique locks and safes?
We specialise in restoring vintage locks and safes, including hand-cut key production and mechanical component repairs at our Caversham workshop.
Are your engineers DBS checked?
All our locksmiths hold full DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) checks for client safety and security.
Do you install smart locks?
Yes, we supply and program Ultion SMART locks with both key and smartphone access options, compatible with existing security systems.
Can you replace broken glass in doors?
We offer emergency glazing services for broken door and window glass, using toughened or laminated glass to BS standards.
Do you provide security surveys?
Yes, we conduct comprehensive security audits for homes and businesses, identifying vulnerabilities and recommending tailored solutions.
Videos
