TradeMatch vs Checkatrade for Locksmiths
Comparing platforms for locksmith work in the UK? Here is how TradeMatch and Checkatrade stack up across the three things that matter for hiring a locksmith: how much you will pay, how well the tradesperson has been vetted, and what happens if the job goes wrong. Average locksmith cost in the UK: £80–£200.
Updated May 2026 · By TradeMatch Editorial Team
£80–£200
UK average for locksmith work in 2026. TradeMatch customers typically pay 5–15% less than on Checkatrade because of competitive quoting and transparent pricing.
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TradeMatch vs Checkatrade for Locksmiths
| Feature | TradeMatch | Checkatrade |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 5 locksmith quotes | Yes | Varies |
| Escrow on payment | Yes | No |
| MLA Approved (Master Locksmiths Association) verified | Yes | Yes |
| Verified reviews only | Yes | Mixed |
| Background checks | Yes | Yes |
| Dispute resolution for locksmith work | Yes | Limited |
Why TradeMatch Wins for Locksmith Work
- Locksmith-specific vetting — TradeMatch verifies MLA Approved (Master Locksmiths Association) and CRB/DBS Checked before any locksmith can quote. Checkatrade has similar checks but relies on ongoing self-attestation.
- Escrow holds your money — Payment for locksmith work sits protected until you confirm the job is done to spec. Critical for locksmith jobs involving emergency lockout.
- Five competing quotes — open competition on pricing — typically saves 5–15% on locksmith jobs.
- No pass-through costs — TradeMatch fees only apply on confirmed work, so there is no marketing overhead baked into your quote.
Typical Locksmith Jobs & UK Pricing
| Job | Low | Average | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Emergency lockout | £60 | £100 | £180 |
| Lock change (single) | £50 | £80 | £130 |
| Full house lock change | £200 | £350 | £600 |
| Security survey | £50 | £100 | £200 |
| UPVC lock repair | £60 | £100 | £180 |
UK average pricing. London and South East run 20–40% higher. Get an exact quote by posting your locksmith job on TradeMatch.
Best platform for locksmith work in 2026?
For locksmith work, both platforms have merit — but TradeMatch's combination of 5 quotes, escrow, MLA Approved (Master Locksmiths Association) verification and dispute resolution means fewer surprises. Checkatrade's weakness around "Subscription model means tradespeople pay whether they get work or not" matters more on locksmith work than on cosmetic trades.
Locksmiths on Checkatrade vs TradeMatch — FAQ
Is TradeMatch better than Checkatrade for finding a locksmith?
For locksmith work specifically, TradeMatch offers escrow-protected payments, up to 5 competing quotes and verified reviews from real completed jobs. Checkatrade lacks payment protection, which matters more for locksmith work because jobs often involve Emergency lockout where you want recourse if something goes wrong.
How much does a locksmith cost compared to what Checkatrade shows?
Average locksmith prices on TradeMatch: £80–£200. Checkatrade pricing tends to be inflated 10–20% because tradespeople pass on their annual subscription costs. TradeMatch's competitive quote model typically gets you 5–15% lower prices for locksmith work because professionals compete openly.
What qualifications does a locksmith need, and does Checkatrade verify them?
A locksmith in the UK should hold MLA Approved (Master Locksmiths Association) and CRB/DBS Checked. Checkatrade does verify locksmith qualifications as part of its standard vetting. On TradeMatch every locksmith is background-checked, qualification-verified and insurance-validated before being allowed to accept work.
What happens if a locksmith job goes wrong on Checkatrade vs TradeMatch?
On Checkatrade, the platform has some mediation but no escrow to hold funds. On TradeMatch, payment sits in escrow until you confirm the work is complete; if there is a dispute, our resolution team mediates and your money stays safe. For locksmith work — where snags like emergency lockout are common — this makes a meaningful difference.
How quickly will I get locksmith quotes on TradeMatch vs Checkatrade?
Most TradeMatch locksmith jobs receive the first quote within a few hours and 3–5 quotes within 24–48 hours. Checkatrade uses a browse-and-contact model, so quote speed depends on how many tradespeople you message. Posting your locksmith job on TradeMatch is free and only takes 2 minutes.
Can I read reviews of locksmiths before hiring on Checkatrade and TradeMatch?
Both platforms display reviews. Reviews are published on Checkatrade profiles. Historically, tradespeople could influence which reviews were displayed, though this has improved. On TradeMatch, every review is verified — only homeowners who have completed a locksmith job through the platform can leave one. No ability to buy or solicit reviews, and every review stays visible (tradespeople cannot delete negative feedback).
Compare Checkatrade for Other Trades
Locksmiths on Other UK Platforms
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