Master Locksmiths Association MLA

14/11/2026

🔐 You've got a video doorbell. Maybe even an alarm. But how secure is your front door?

Home security technology can be a useful part of protecting your property. But it's just one part of the picture.

When was the last time you checked:

🔐 Whether your locks provide an appropriate level of security?

🚪 Whether your doors close, lock and secure properly?

🏡 Whether your back and side entrances are as secure as your front door?

A good home security approach considers the whole property, not just the technology.

An MLA Approved Company can help you assess your existing door and lock security and advise where improvements may be needed.

Because good home security starts with getting the basics right.

👇 Find your local MLA Approved Company using the link in the first comment.

13/11/2026

🔐 Don't wait until you're locked out to find a locksmith.

Good advice from Trading Standards Scotland.

When you need a locksmith in an emergency, it's easy to feel under pressure to find someone quickly. But taking a little time to find a trusted locksmith before you need one can help you avoid unnecessary stress – and potentially costly surprises.

A few things worth remembering:

🔹 Save the details of a local locksmith before an emergency happens.
🔹 Be cautious of online adverts offering unusually low prices.
🔹 Ask for clear information about costs before agreeing to work.
🔹 Don't feel pressured into accepting additional work or charges you haven't agreed to.

The MLA's Find a Locksmith directory can help you find a local MLA Approved Company.

Find a locksmith and save their details today locksmiths.co.uk

Peace of mind starts with the right locksmith.

13/11/2026

🔑 Seven years in locksmithing. A new qualification achieved!

Congratulations to CY Brown on successfully completing the MLA Qualification and achieving Qualified Master Locksmith (QML) status! 👏

After seven years working in the locksmith industry, CY wanted to put that experience to the test and achieve a recognised qualification.

💬 “Working towards a recognised qualification was a personal goal and to test my skills I've gained over the years.”

But for CY, the value of the MLA goes beyond qualifications.

CY also recognises the importance of helping consumers find locksmiths they can trust, particularly when they don't have a personal recommendation to rely on.

As CY explains:

💬 “Not everyone knows a locksmith so if friends or family don't have a good recommendation the MLA is certainly the safest website to contact a local locksmith who has been checked, tested and approved.”

And CY has some advice for others considering their next step in locksmithing:

💬 “I would recommend the MLA to anyone wanting to learn, improve and invest in themselves for a successful future in locksmithing.”

Whether you're just starting out or have years of experience, there's always an opportunity to develop your skills and gain professional recognition.

The MLA Qualification is independently assessed and provides a recognised way to demonstrate technical knowledge and practical skills.

🎓 Interested in becoming a Qualified Master Locksmith? Find out more via the link in the comments.

13/11/2026

🔐 Thinking about switching to a smart lock?

Keyless entry, remote access and connected features can offer greater convenience. But does smart automatically mean more secure?

Not necessarily.

Before choosing a smart lock, it's worth checking whether it's compatible with your existing door, whether the smart lock has been independently security tested, what ongoing maintenance it needs and what happens if the technology stops working.

We've brought together insights from locksmiths, security manufacturers and independent testing specialists to help you understand what to look for.

Swipe through for the questions worth asking before you buy.

For advice on choosing a suitable smart lock, including supply and installation where available, find an MLA Approved Company.

🔗 Link in comments.

12/11/2026

🔑 The latest issue of Keyways is out now!

The October/November edition of the MLA's journal is packed with news, technical insight and product updates from across the locksmithing industry.

Inside this issue, we're exploring Sold Secure SS504 Smart Locks and what smart security means for locksmiths, alongside articles on compliance, the history of locks, marketing and more.

Keyways is an exclusive benefit for MLA Members, Approved Companies and Affiliate Partners, bringing industry knowledge and updates directly to our professional community.

A big thank you to editor Simon Griffiths, our contributors and Affiliate Partners for their continued support.

📖 Have you received your copy yet?

12/11/2026

🔑 “Hi, I'm Sam from SG Locksmiths Ltd in Swansea.”

We're putting more faces to the businesses behind MLA Approval, and today we're introducing Sam Grey from SG Locksmiths Limited.

Established in 2016, Sam and his business support customers across Swansea and South Wales.

For Sam, MLA Approval is about giving customers confidence that they're calling someone with the knowledge, experience and understanding to help.

💬 The MLA signals integrity and expertise, which is exactly what we want to represent.

And Sam has a simple reminder for anyone in South Wales:

📱 Save the number of a trusted locksmith before you need one!

Swipe through to meet Sam, find out what MLA Approval means and discover how to check his company's details.

Peace of mind starts with the right locksmith.

🔗 View SG Locksmiths Ltd MLA Approved Company profile via the link in the comments. 👇

12/11/2026

🔑 Your home security plays an important part in protecting your vehicle.

Police Scotland Fife has issued advice following reports of properties being targeted in the Dunfermline area for high-value vehicles parked outside.

In these incidents, offenders are reportedly targeting homes to gain access to vehicle keys.

It's a useful reminder to review both your home and vehicle security.

🏡 Check that your door locks offer appropriate protection, particularly against lock snapping.

🔑 Keep vehicle keys out of sight and away from doors and windows.

🚗 Consider additional vehicle security measures, including physical deterrents and signal-blocking protection where appropriate.

If you're unsure whether your existing locks provide adequate protection, an MLA Approved Company can assess your security and advise on suitable upgrades.

For independently tested lock cylinders, look for recognised security ratings such as TS 007 3 Star or Sold Secure SS312 Diamond.

Thank you to Police Scotland Fife for sharing this important advice.

Peace of mind starts with the right locksmith.

https://www.facebook.com/100069258397506/posts/1445187864466480/?rdid=qIjUbWwolU1cqit6 #

🚨CRIME ALERT & HOME SECURITY ADVICE: High Value Vehicle Theft 🚨

We are advising residents in the Dunfermline area to review their home and vehicle security, this is following recent incidents where properties have been targeted specifically for high-value vehicles parked outside.

In these cases, offenders aim to force entry to the home solely to locate car keys. Taking a few key security measures may reduce the risk of your home and vehicle being targeted.

🛡️Check your door locks: Euro Cylinder Security
Standard Euro profile cylinders fitted to uPVC and composite doors are vulnerable to a technique known as “lock snapping” if they are older or unrated.

How to check your locks
• Look for the Kitemark / accreditation: Open your door and inspect the face of the lock cylinder. Look for a British Standard Kitemark with 3 Stars (TS007 3 Star) or a Sold Secure Diamond (SS213) logo stamped on it.
• Check the fit: Ensure your lock cylinder is flush with the handle face plate. A cylinder which protrudes more than 3mm is far easier to grip for an intruder to grip and snap.
• Upgrade Unrated Locks: If your lock shows no star rating or is flush mounted without anti-snap accreditation, consider upgrading to a TS007 3-Star of SS312 Sold Secure Diamond rated cylinder

🔑 Vehicle and Key Security
• Out of Sight, Out of Reach: Never leave car keys on hallway tables, key hooks near the front door, or visible through glass panels. Store them out of sight in a secure location
• Block Signal : If your vehicle has a key less entry/start system, store your key fobs in a Faraday pouch / box or a signal blocking container when inside your home to prevent relay attacks. Remember to test the Faraday pouch / box regularly
• Physical Vehicle Locks: Use a visible steering wheel lock or pedal box lock as a secondary physical deterrent.

🏡General Home Target Hardening
• Secure Key Storage: Lock away spare keys to garages vehicles, or outbuildings
• Keep Side Gates Locked: Use high-grade padlocks and latches to prevent access to the rear or side of your home
• Double Check Door: Always lift the handle (if applicable) and turn the key to fully engage multipoint locking systems.

Report Suspicious Activity: If you notice any suspicious individuals or vehicles loitering in your neighbourhood, please report it immediately via 101 (or 999 if a crime is in progress). Information can also be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers.

11/11/2026

This is why knowing who to call before you need a locksmith matters. 🔑

It's concerning to hear Aidan's account of his experience, as reported by STV News.

Nobody should feel intimidated or pressured when seeking help with their home security.

There are skilled, honest locksmiths across the UK who take pride in their work, provide clear advice and treat their customers fairly. It's important that their professionalism is recognised too.

At the Master Locksmiths Association, we work to help consumers identify locksmith businesses that have been independently vetted, meet recognised qualification requirements and undergo regular inspections.

Our advice? Know before you need.
Find and save the details of a local MLA Approved Company before you need one.

Peace of mind starts with the right locksmith.

https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=1624036796432228&set=a.628455702657014

'I was intimidated into paying £500 locksmith charge'

Aidan says the locksmith entered his home before demanding a fee five times the original quote

11/11/2026

🔐 Are your home's locks providing the protection you need?

As the darker nights draw in, West Midlands Police is urging residents to check the security of their doors, windows, sheds and garages.

The force highlights how burglars can exploit weak or poorly fitted locks, including using techniques such as drilling and lock snapping.

Their latest advice recommends consulting the Master Locksmiths Association if you're unsure whether your locks offer suitable protection.

But what does choosing an MLA Approved Company mean for you?

🔑 Qualified – MLA Approved Companies must have at least one Qualified Master Locksmith (QML) for every five locksmith staff. The nationally recognised, Ofqual-regulated MLA Qualification independently assesses locksmithing knowledge and practical skills.

🔐 Vetted – locksmith staff undergo Standard DBS checks, providing additional reassurance about who you're inviting into your home.

✓ Inspected – regular inspections check that Approved Companies continue to meet MLA standards.

The police advice also highlights Sold Secure Diamond certification, which helps homeowners identify lock cylinders independently tested to resist methods of attack, including lock snapping.

The right products and the right professional advice go hand in hand. Sold Secure helps you identify independently tested security products, while MLA Approved Companies can advise on the suitability and correct fitting of your locks.

👇 Read the police advice in the shared post below and find your local MLA Approved Company using the link in the first comment.

https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=1584402793714181&set=a.309556514532155

Peace of mind starts with the right locksmith.

Easy to snap? Time to check your locks

Burglars are looking for doors and windows with insecure locks, using the cover of the darker nights to hide their tracks.

We are seeing a rising trend where burglars target back doors, first floor windows, and sheds as they know these are easy targets. Burglars can use different methods to break into your home such as drilling or snapping ill-fitting or weak locks.

We are urging residents to take the time to check their locks on your doors, windows, sheds, and garages this winter. If you have UPVC doors or Euro Cylinders, make sure they meet the DHF TS007 3 Star or Sold Secure Diamond Standard Anti Bump level of protection. Always look for the '3 Star' engraving when purchasing a lock.

A Master Locksmiths Association accredited locksmith can advise if you’re unsure. Badly fitted cylinders can compromise security and can be easily snapped.

Modern multi-locking and uPVC doors use a system of hooks and latches to secure the door but these only work if you lift up the handle and then remember to turn and remove the key.

Remember – lift, lock and remove.

For your windows, you can install window restrictors to stop the window being prised open too wide. On UPVC windows, the handle might come with a small key and locking system, use this to secure your window.

You can also add window and door alarms that can be easily installed and removed if needed. Your local neighbourhood team may have some of these to spare if you are worried or concerned.

Chief Inspector Katy Callendar, the force lead for burglary, said: "The data from the Office for National Statistics (between July 2025 and June 2026) shows that we have reduced home burglaries down nearly 8% but there is still more that needs to be done.

"Taking a few extra moments to make sure your doors, windows, sheds, and garages are locked and secured can make a big difference. Your local policing teams are working tirelessly to bring offenders to justice and keep our communities safe from burglars.

"Recently, a man was charged with a pair of burglaries in Coventry and the Op Fearless team arrested a man and seized a knife, following an aggravated burglary where a weapon was used at a family home in Birmingham.

"Your reports of suspicious behaviour and activity around vehicles and homes also help us direct resources to the right places. If you haven't already please registered your CCTV with us on the CCTV register so we can call on you for much needed video evidence if an incident happens in your area."

Help improve your home security during the darker nights start by following these top tips:

1. Using timer switches for lights: Set indoor lights on timers to make it look like someone is home, even if you’re out.

2. Securing doors and windows: Double-check that all entry points, including porches and sheds, are securely locked - even when you're home.

3. Activating house alarms: If you have an alarm system, ensure it is activated when you leave and use any zonal functions during the night.

4. Using smart lighting: Motion-sensitive outdoor lights can help deter burglars by lighting up when someone approaches your property.

5. Family gold, cash, and jewellery: Keep valuables in a fire-resistant safe hidden away in a safe location. Never store cash or high-value items in the bedroom, this is the first-place burglars will look.

6. If you're inviting people over for the festivities make sure you do not leave the door on the latch with car keys by open windows or doors. Double-lock the door every single time you leave the house.

If you have personal CCTV or a digital doorbell you can help support our investigations by signing up to the CCTV registry here 🔗 https://orlo.uk/KH6tD

Remember if you see a crime in progress, always call 999. If you want to report a theft or burglary, talk to us online or call us on 101.

11/11/2026

At 11am today, we pause to remember those who gave their lives in service.

We also recognise all those who have served, including the many former Armed Forces personnel who are now part of the locksmithing community.

To everyone who has served, thank you for your service.

We will remember them.