There’re so many routes into locksmithing, Simon Brown from StockLock in Stockport explains how locksmithing became an additional trade that fitted in ‘nicely’ with everything else he was doing. His service offering is continuously growing with the latest addition being high security locks.
How did you get into locksmithing?
Well, I kind of fell into the job really. I worked for a company fitting garage doors, and I really wanted to work for myself so I built up a little sideline at the weekend, and once I had enough work, I became full-time self-employed.
I have been a locksmith now for six years and got involved in locksmithing when a family friend asked me to look at some locks on their French doors when the mechanisms failed. I quite enjoyed it, so carried on doing odd jobs.
My experience of installing garage doors didn’t really help me because it’s totally different to locksmithing, but the two trades go hand-in-hand really businesswise, and having certain tools and a van already was useful.
I am a general locksmith who also does window repairs, garage door installations and repairs, as well as automation. I work by myself and can make a decent living out of what I do, I couldn’t be happier. The work I do is mainly domestic and I also work with landlords.
Likes & dislikes about locksmithing
I like that every job is different, I like meeting new people and being presented with new challenges every day. I really wouldn’t change a thing about working as a locksmith. I even look after my own social media.
Dislikes, I can honestly say I enjoy it all, except maybe paperwork but we all have to do it!
High security locks
Over the last 12 months, I have also offered new services such as key cutting and high security locks. I invested in Mul-T-Lock key machines and I’ve found them to be a reliable brand, that allows me to provide a hassle-free service to my customers.
Advice to other budding locksmiths
I would say if you want to become a locksmith just go for it! If finding money for training is an issue, I would say that forking-out for training is definitely not a necessity, it is possible to teach yourself the basics and putting in the hard work will pay off. I guess you know yourself if you’re the type of person who can learn on the job, or whether formal training is best for you. It’s about choosing whatever is right for you.
Personal perspective
I find I can make a decent living out of locksmithing, and it’s enough to keep my family. Life is busy at work, but also busy at home having three children ages eight months, seven and 14 years. Self-employment works well around family commitments, being my own boss, I can do the school run, take my son to football and ferry-around my teenager daughter. I hope to pass on my skills to my children one day, if they wish to join me, we can become a family business.
About StockLock
StockLock is a local locksmith companby based in Stockport who supply and fit replacement high security locks for front doors, patio doors, UPVC doors and French doors. They also repair and replace external door handles, window locks and can even replace failed double glazed units.
Tel: 07540 802169