Locksmith - new lock for door

jezebel

So I had call out today for a door that wouldn't lock, after quite a bit of banging the locksmith said he couldn't fix it and fitted temporary "overnight" lock and said he'll call back tomorrow. Today cost £125 - which didn't include a call out but I assume parts and labour. 

I asked how much it would be tomorrow, but he said he couldn't say as it depends on the work required.

My mum thinks the £125 today was quite high, although I think it's probably a reasonable rate for a "made it safe/secure" based on a few other posts on here already.

My question is mainly how do I ask for an upfront costing for the work tomorrow? Should I ask any specific questions and should I shop around for other quotes in the meantime.

Also, if anyone knows a ballpark as I may need to borrow some funds to cover it - it's a three point lock for a upvc door which I understand is probably quite pricy

greenface2

depends what is wrong . what is a temporary overnight lock . While open ,lift the handle and turn the key . If it turns and you cannot pish the handle down its locked . the keepers needs adjusting to fit the lock (door probably needs packing to suit the keepers really) If its not moving the claws or bolts then its a new gearbox ( about £25 max . or , new mechanism ( upto £100 ) it maybe a new eurocylinder barrel ( between £10 and £40 ) Locksmiths like to bash things and call back . I'm not to say what they will charge but I can normally get new parts for a upvc door and charge the customer no more than £160 total inc parts . If its a lock or gearbox normally under £90 and I carry some spares to save me time calling back . HTH but lift handle turn key and get back in the morning . Pics would help to see what you have and what they have fitted 

jezebel

Thanks.

He fitted a basic single point lock to secure the door - assume as he is replacing it with new 3 point tomorrow he said it was "overnight" lock. 

The ballpark is also helpful, I'll ask him before he completes any work to advise on what he's doing so at least I know. 

Edited to add: Came back today with a colleague and fixed it for no extra charge - it was the keeps (?)