If you’re calling a locksmith and wondering whether there is a call-out fee, the short answer is often yes. Understanding how call-out fees work helps avoid surprises and makes it easier to decide whether to proceed, especially for emergency or after-hours jobs.
Do locksmiths charge call-out fees and how do they work?
Many locksmiths charge a call-out fee to cover the cost of travelling to your location and allocating time to your job. This fee is separate from the cost of labour, parts, or additional work that may be required once the locksmith arrives.
Call-out fees are common across the trade services industry and are not unique to locksmiths.
What does a call-out fee usually cover?
A call-out fee typically covers:
- travel time to your location
- fuel and vehicle costs
- time allocated to attend your job
- availability of the locksmith
In emergency situations, the call-out fee also reflects the urgency of the job and the need to prioritise your request over other work.
Do call-out fees vary by time and location?
Yes.
Call-out fees often vary depending on:
- whether the job is during business hours or after hours
- weekends or public holidays
- how far the locksmith needs to travel
- local demand at the time of the call
A reputable locksmith will explain when higher call-out fees apply so you can make an informed decision.
Is the call-out fee refundable?
In most cases, call-out fees are not refundable once the locksmith has been dispatched or has arrived. This is because the time and resources have already been committed.
However, good communication upfront reduces the risk of misunderstandings about what the fee covers.
Will I be told the call-out fee before the locksmith attends?
A professional locksmith will explain:
- whether a call-out fee applies
- how much it is
- what it covers
- whether additional labour or parts are likely
This information should be provided before you agree to proceed.
When you contact Terry’s Locksmiths, we explain call-out fees clearly so you know what to expect before a locksmith is dispatched.
Why extremely low advertised call-out fees can be misleading
Some advertised call-out fees appear very low but may not include:
- after-hours loading
- minimum labour charges
- additional service fees
A reputable locksmith focuses on transparency rather than headline pricing.
Need help right now?
If you need urgent locksmith assistance or want to understand call-out fees before booking, contact Terry’s Locksmiths here:
https://tlslocks.com.au/contact-us/