How do locksmiths verify ownership?

A locksmith will need to verify ownership of a property for proof of residence before carrying out locksmith work.

Verifying ownership is important to ensure an authorised resident or individual is requesting the locksmith work. So, how will the locksmith know if it’s your house? Ownership is typically verified by asking for and checking a valid photo ID, such as a driving licence or by checking a bill showing the name and address of the property.

If you don’t have any identification to prove your ownership or residency, it’s likely the service will be refused.

We understand you won’t always have access to photo identification in emergencies and this is especially true for those times when you’re locked out unexpectedly. Just imagine: you’re getting into bed and suddenly remember you didn't take the bins out. You rush downstairs and make your way out of the door when it shuts behind you and locks you out of the house. You don’t have your keys and you don’t have your ID. The locksmith will need proof from you that you live at the residence before they go ahead and let you back in, but how can you prove it without ID?

Luckily, there are ways you can help to prove your identity without photographic ID in your pocket:

Do you have a landlord? If your house or flat is rented, it’s likely your landlord can help to verify your identity and may even be able to let you back in themselves. Give them a call and explain that you’ve locked yourself out, they can help to prove your identity to the locksmith and they may even have a spare key to let you back in.

Family nearby? If you have family nearby, is it possible they have any documents, bills or ID to prove you’re the resident of the property? Perhaps they have a spare key you can use to let yourself back in.

Friendly neighbours? Depending on the circumstance, it’s possible that your locksmith may ask a neighbour to identify you. If you know your neighbours well, ask them to help prove your identity to the locksmith by confirming whether you are the tenant or owner. After the locksmith has unlocked your door they will ask to see some ID to confirm that you are the resident you say you are.

To sum up: The locksmith will require identification, usually in the form of a driving licence or bill to verify ownership and confirm it’s your property.