Checkatrade REVIEWS

East Kent Locksmiths – Customer Overview

Rating: ★★★★★

East Kent Locksmiths, led by Charlie, is a trusted, local locksmith service covering Thanet and the wider East Kent area. Customers consistently praise the company for its prompt response, professional service, and friendly approach. From emergency lockouts to lock replacements, key cutting, and modern fob programming, the team delivers high-quality workmanship on every job.

Clients highlight Charlie’s expertise, honesty, and attention to detail, noting that he explains work clearly, offers practical solutions, and ensures properties are left safe and tidy. With a reliable, courteous, and highly skilled service, East Kent Locksmiths has earned a strong reputation for customer satisfaction and value for money, making them a go-to choice for domestic and automotive locksmith needs.

See our verified reviews and more details by visiting our Checkatrade profile: East Kent Locksmiths on Checkatrade

Car lock removal

“We were down in Whitstable on holiday. We put our steering lock on our car then realised the key was back at home! We contacted Charlie at EKL – they were with us within 5 minutes. What a courteous, professional, analytical and efficient team. The lock was challenging but they persevered and got it off for us. What a relief. The charge was very modest and I would recommend them to anyone, what a team 😁”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT5

Highly recommend Charlie

“Charlie, thank you. You are a credit to your trade. Trustworthy, professional, and really cares about doing a good job for each and every customer. I would not hesitate in recommending Charlie.”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT14

Front door lock replacement

“We had moved into a new property & the lock was dodgy. East Kent Locksmiths were excellent – contacted us promptly, arrived exactly on time & replaced the lock for a good price on a Saturday. Highly recommend.”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT10

Lock and door fittings changed

“Charlie was excellent, super friendly and knowledgeable. Great, very quick communication too. The job turned out to be much bigger than expected but everything was really well explained and given different options that suited our budget. Everything was done to a really high standard. Thank you.”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT7

New gears on door and new lock fitted

“Lovely and friendly, with an excellent knowledge of the trade. Speedy response without being pushy and came out straight away to complete the job. I would highly recommend them.”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT9

Front gate lock repair

“Would highly recommend East Kent Locksmiths! They repaired my lock within 24 hours of making the call. From start to finish the service was professional, friendly and efficient so will definitely be using them again if needed.”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT9

Opening locks and fitting new ones

“I was very impressed by the service offered by Charlie of East Kent Locksmiths. He arrived on time and once the bailiffs had given the go ahead he opened the locks quickly and efficiently. He changed all the locks to the property and was extremely professional and tidy. I would not hesitate to recommend him or use his services again.”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT3

Fitting a new lock and box on a wooden door, picking a cabinet lock

“Charlie was very prompt and friendly. He fitted a new Yale lock on a wooden front door along with a new lock box. He asked lots of questions re the plate colour to fit the rest of the door furniture and explained what he was doing and if that was what we wanted. He obviously takes pride in his work. I also had an old cabinet with books inside that had a missing key. He even managed to unpick this as well. Thoroughly recommended.”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT14

Replacing garage door lock

“These guys were great – gave an estimate before the work, showed up on time, did the work quickly and competently, and nice guys to boot. Highly recommended.”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT9

New deadlock fitted

“Great! Charlie is completely reliable and friendly. He made sure that his work was perfect. He asked me to try it out when finished so I was completely happy. Charlie brought his own vacuum cleaner and left everything clean and tidy. Charlie also did me a big favour and checked my patio door which was sticking and put oil on it! Great experience – thank you!”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT11

Lock change

“Charlie got in touch immediately and was very polite and professional. We arranged for Charlie to come out the next day but in the meantime we found the key that we thought was lost and called Charlie straight away to update. I will definitely call Charlie if I need any locks changed because his politeness made me feel very comfortable.”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT12

Deadlock engaged. We were locked out

“The deadlock had engaged as the door was being closed – with us on the outside on a cold, dark evening. I phoned Charlie & explained the problem. He was with us within 25 minutes. As soon as he arrived, I knew we were in safe & reliable hands. He was very reassuring, explained what needed doing, & set about doing it. He answered any questions and installed a new lock. We'll definitely recommend him to everyone! The cost was very reasonable indeed.”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT10

Repair the lock on the kitchen door

“I phoned Charlie, and he was with us within the hour. He was really friendly and helpful. I would definitely recommend him.”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT11

Emergency lock needed to be fixed

“I called Charlie, single mum at home with 3 kids, trying to explain the situation and he was so kind on the phone and asked if he could come straight away. I was relieved that he came out so fast and got straight onto the job in hand. Charlie was punctual, knowledgeable and I trusted him. He was able to fix the lock and made sure it was all working before he left. Perfect job, I would highly recommend him and would only use him if I get locked out or in again. Thanks 🙏”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT9

Repair of conservatory and workshop locks

“Very good service, can't fault. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend to my friends and family. Thank you very much.”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT10

Old lock needed replacing

“The lock on my front door was very old and it was increasingly difficult to turn the key. Charlie came out within the hour. He worked quickly and efficiently and was pleasant and friendly. The cost of the replacement lock, which came with three keys, was very reasonable.”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT7

Needed an emergency call out as my PVC front door wouldn’t close nor would the lock work very well

“Charlie was amazing. He came to the rescue within 25 minutes and spent an hour on a really tricky job. He was so kind, polite, professional and reasonably priced. Would definitely recommend.”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT9

New locks

“Charlie contacted me and kept me informed of his ETA. Very courteous and knowledgeable, advised me on what was required and completed the job to our satisfaction. Would definitely use and recommend Charlie in the future.”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT10

Key jammed in patio door

“Within minutes of posting my repair job, Charlie rang me. He gave me a quote for the repair, came round the same day, replaced the lock which I supplied, and charged a very reasonable rate. He did an excellent job.”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT11

Unable to open front door

“Fantastic service from Charlie at East Kent Locksmiths! He attended promptly, quickly assessed the issue, and ordered the necessary parts without delay. The repair was handled efficiently, and I was very pleased with the value for money. Charlie's communication was excellent throughout – he kept me informed at every stage and was a genuinely nice guy to deal with. Highly recommend East Kent Locksmiths for reliable and professional service!”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT12

Lock replacement

“The locksmith phoned to say he was already doing a job in the area, and could come to assess the problem – and deal with it, if required. He arrived within his estimated time frame, dealt with the issue, and was very polite. I would recommend East Kent Locksmiths to anyone else.”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT7

Fabulous efficient service

“Courteous young man who did a great job!”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT10

Roofing bars unlocked

“Helped unlock brand new roofing bars as keys were stuck.”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT12

Adjusting uPVC Porch Door

“After a super fast telephone response to my initial enquiry, a date and time to suit me was arranged. Arrived on time and the job was completed within 30 minutes entirely to my satisfaction. Charlie the locksmith was very friendly and professional and told me exactly what work was done. I have absolutely no hesitation in recommending East Kent Locksmiths. A perfect experience.”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT14

Undo broken locks

“Prompt attendance, speedy rectification, reasonable price and very polite.”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT12

Opening locked door and replacing lock

“This firm is a pleasure to deal with. Very friendly on the phone and obviously eager to help. Came out as promised and was both friendly and very professional. Made sure I was completely happy before he left. A very high standard of work for a very competitive price. Thoroughly recommended.”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT5

Patio door lock broken

“Charlie provided an excellent service, he was prompt, efficient, friendly and extremely helpful. He provided an excellent professional service. Thank you Charlie.”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT12

Changed locks for new house

“Charlie was fantastic; very knowledgeable and an excellent communicator. Got the job done quickly and efficiently. Would not hesitate to use him again.”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT9

UVPC Back door lock adjustment

“I had a problem with a door that wouldn’t lock properly. When my first choice via Checkatrade let me down I rang East Kent Locksmiths. Charlie apologised for not being available immediately but came before 9:00am on a Sunday as soon as he was available. He was polite, courteous, considerate and reassuring. He swiftly diagnosed and explained the problem and carried out the work required to fix it thoroughly and efficiently. I was completely satisfied with the quality and professionalism of his work. The cost was reasonable and I cannot recommend him highly enough.”

erified reviewer – Job location: CT14

Postbox lock change

“After being let down by a previous locksmith, who decided to triple his labour cost at the last minute, I contacted East Kent Locksmith via Checkatrade. From the start Charlie was very courteous and quoted a much more realistic price. He ordered the necessary lock and 3 days later it was fitted. I would highly recommend him and his work, not only for his competency completing the job, but also for his excellent customer service. 5 stars all round.”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT17

Excellent service! Highly recommend.

“Charlie was very professional and super helpful. He put me at ease with his calm manner, given the fact that we had an emergency of a lost key. He made the whole process stress free and got the job done within 15/20 mins. Charlie exceeded my expectations and I will definitely be recommending his service again!”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT11

New Lock

“Charlie, a fantastic locksmith, ordered us a new lock no problem. Communication on the options available was brilliant. Highly recommend, excellent service.”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT3

Repair/replace jamming lock

“Very prompt, attending the day after called, very efficient in what they did, happy to reattend to repair a second issue that arose, and extremely courteous and polite. I would happily recommend East Kent Locksmiths, and although I hope not to need them again any time soon, it will be they I shall call when that need arises. 10/10, would rehire.”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT14

Unjamming and servicing double-locking patio doors

“Job started and completed perfectly on time, courteously, and even better, cheaper than the original estimate.”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT15

Door lock fitting

“Would thoroughly recommend this company. Sorted out my Son’s door and my side gate locks. Came out within the hour. Very efficient and polite and would definitely call them again if needed.”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT11

Lock handle replacement for security door

“Charlie appeared to be friendly with a professional manner. Ordered the part and replaced it promptly, no wasting time. We are very pleased and will highly recommend him.”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT9

Locksmith

“Charlie and his Dad came out on a Sunday when we were locked out. They were so kind, helpful, cheerful and professional. They got us back in and sorted the problem with the lock so that it now works perfectly. Highly recommend them if you need a locksmith and they are truly 24/7.”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT7

Came out immediately and changed the lock on our front door

“Charlie from East Kent Locksmiths arrived within 30 minutes, was very cheerful and polite and changed the lock swiftly and efficiently.”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT9

Front door lock replacement

“Punctual, efficient, friendly, reasonably priced, and polite. Would definitely recommend them.”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT11

Ancient lock replacement for an ancient door

“Charlie and his team were so courteous, polite, enthusiastic and friendly. Obviously passionate about his trade, Charlie trawled the internet to find a modern (and therefore safer) lock to replace a lock that broke due to old age, returning excitedly with a beautiful replacement lock that is more secure yet still in keeping with the style of door and property. A thoroughly professional service from start to end. I highly recommend this company and would never use anyone else. Thank you Charlie!”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT6

Lock issues

“I called Charlie late in the day as I was locked in my property. Charlie arrived within 20 minutes and rectified the issue, new parts ordered. Charlie was polite, friendly, and very helpful. Excellent service, would highly recommend.”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT9

Replacement lock for uPVC door

“Charlie was really polite and prompt. Did a good job. Would definitely recommend!”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT11

New lock for front door

“Prompt service. Good job done.”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT14

Broken lock and locked out

“Charlie was really helpful when my door lock broke while I was abroad. Ordinarily not a problem, but nobody could get in to feed the cat. He contacted me very quickly and came round first thing on Sunday morning. He made the house secure and saved the day. Very happy with service and would highly recommend.”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT8

Window and door locks fixed and replaced

“Charlie got back to me quickly, which was not the case with some of the other locksmiths I contacted. He and his colleague were very courteous, prompt, and professional. They re-keyed the outside doors of our house and fixed a window lock that was broken. Great value, great work, fast, and highly recommended.”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT10

Repair a conservatory door lock

“Punctual, friendly, efficient, tidy. Excellent. Very pleased.”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT10

Locksmith

“Charlie was efficient, professional, and highly recommendable.”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT10

Replace French door lock that had jammed

“Fantastic service, friendly and efficient. Would heartily recommend.”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT11

Nice young man

“Stupidly I locked myself out of my house leaving the keys inside. I went in to a neighbour for help. She had used East Kent Locksmiths previously and recommended them. About 40 minutes later a smart young man called Charlie turned up and explained that he could gain entry without damaging the lock or drill out the existing one. I chose the no damage service. Within 10 minutes I was indoors, reunited with my keys and did not need a new lock. A very professional service – thank you.”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT6

To renew door lock

“Excellent service, very reasonable price, and on time. Will use again.”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT11

Locked out

“Charlie (the locksmith) was professional, courteous and provided an excellent service. After getting myself locked out of the house it was reassuring to have a local company come out to sort the issue. Would highly recommend.”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT7

Locked out due to broken lock

“A very professional company to deal with. Charlie (the locksmith) was polite, professional and courteous. He had us in the house in no time at all. Would highly recommend.”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT7

Tenant locked out. East Kent Locksmiths came out quickly and both tenant and landlord were happy

“Charlie was great. Friendly, prompt and knowledgeable. He got in without having to change the locks.”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT10

Replaced lock in front door

“Charlie the locksmith was lovely, very polite and professional. He replaced the lock in our front door that was jammed. He arrived on time and tidied up after himself. Very happy and good value for money.”

Verified reviewer – Job location: CT7