Mobile emergency locksmith

Homeowners, renters, landlords, property managers, small businesses and people locked out of their cars.

A call-out fee plus labour and parts for each job, with higher rates for after-hours work. Repeat work comes from property managers and local businesses.

• Hands-on mechanical skill and patience
• Calm customer service with stressed people
• Reliable driving and local knowledge
• Honest, trustworthy character

• Licensing rules differ by state and territory, so check before taking any paid jobs
• Public liability insurance, and check if you need cover for tools and stock
• Always verify the customer's identity and right to access the property to avoid being used in a break-in
• Fake or misleading online directory listings and pricing complaints, so quote clearly upfront
• Late-night call-outs and personal safety, so plan your hours and how you handle unfamiliar locations

Estimates suggest startup costs typically sit around $5,000 to $20,000, depending on your vehicle, tools, stock and insurance. Treat this as a guide and get quotes for the equipment you plan to carry before you buy.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $3,000 to $12,000, depending on how many call-outs you take, your hours and your pricing. Hours typically start at around 20 per week and may include late-night work.

Check licensing rules in your state or territory before taking paid jobs. Also check public liability and tool cover, how you will verify each customer's identity and right to access, clear upfront quoting, and personal safety on late call-outs.