After-Hours lockout and rekey locksmith

Homeowners and tenants locked out in the evening or on weekends, plus landlords who need locks changed between tenants.

A call-out fee plus labour and parts per job, with a premium for urgent after-hours visits. Rekeying for landlords can be booked in advance.

• Basic lock mechanics learned through training
• Clear, reassuring communication
• Reliable and happy to be on call

• Some provinces license locksmiths under security services rules, so check before you advertise
• Commercial general liability insurance, and check what your current job or vehicle policy does not cover
• Verify the customer's right to access the property before every job
• Check any conflict with your main job's hours or contract
• Home-based business rules in your municipality if you store stock or take calls from home

Startup costs are typically around $1,500 to $6,000, depending on your tool kit, training and insurance. These are estimates, so list what you need for lockouts and basic rekeys and price it yourself before you begin.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $600 to $3,000, depending on how many evening and weekend calls you take. The work can start from about 8 hours a week, which suits running it alongside another job.

Some provinces license locksmiths under security services rules, so check before you advertise. Also check commercial general liability insurance, your main job's hours or contract, and home-based business rules in your municipality.