🔑 How to find a reliable locksmith or emergency lockout service in Vienna?

Avoiding Rip-Offs: How to Find the Right Locksmith in Vienna

Whether in the middle of the night or on a public holiday – we show you reliable providers with clear fixed prices, available 24/7, and usually at your location within 15 to 30 minutes – anywhere in Vienna and the surrounding area.

It was a cold evening in January when Anna H. stood in front of her apartment door after work. No key.
Just a quick trip to the supermarket, she had thought.
The door slammed shut, the key still on the kitchen table.
Locked out. Panic.
Neighbors? Not home.
So there was only one option left: Google a locksmith.

What happened next is the kind of story you usually hear in forums or TV exposés:
A provider promised help “in 20 minutes – from €29.”
But in the end, it was over €500 – cash, on the spot.
No invoice. No explanation.
When she hesitated, he threatened to call the police.

Unfortunately, Anna’s case is not an exception.
In Vienna, scams like this happen every single day.

That’s why we’re here – to help you find the right locksmith.

Our mission is simple:

Create transparency. Build trust. Stop locksmith scams.

That’s why this page features only verified locksmiths from Vienna, with:

- …a valid business license (WKO-verified)
- …transparent pricing – no nasty surprises
- …real customer reviews on Google and other platforms
- …fast availability, even at night or on public holidays
- …physical locations in Vienna

We don’t just compare – we verify.
Every locksmith company listed on our platform is manually checked before being included – this includes their legal imprint, price list, business license, and reviews across multiple platforms.

A lost or broken key shouldn’t turn into a financial nightmare.

We’re here to show you that honest, fair, and skilled locksmiths do exist in Vienna.

Our tip: Don’t let yourself get pressured.

Compare different providers here and ask for a transparent quote before you commit. Important: Understandably, locksmiths can’t always guarantee fixed prices. Depending on the type of door and the situation, unlocking it may be more or less complex – which affects the cost. The more details you share in advance (type of door, key stuck in the lock, or door simply shut), the more accurately a locksmith can give you a fair price estimate upfront.

The best emergency locksmiths in Vienna

Locksmith Vienna – Verified Providers at a Glance

Why is it so hard to find a reliable locksmith in Vienna?

The term “locksmith” isn’t legally protected in Austria – which means anyone can call themselves one, even without proper training or certification.
Technically, a business license (e.g. for unlocking services or locksmith work) is required by law for services like door openings, lock installations, or security consulting –
but in practice, this rule is often ignored or poorly enforced.

Another big issue:
Many shady providers operate via central call centers, pretending to be local businesses and luring people in with unrealistic prices (like “from €15”).
At first glance, their websites look professional – with logos, badges, and hundreds of supposed 5-star reviews.
But behind the scenes, there’s often no real company, just a setup designed to exploit emergencies for quick cash.

The result:
Consumers report bills of €300 to €800, demands for cash without any invoice, and aggressive behavior on site – especially at night or on weekends,
when people are stressed and vulnerable.

⚠️ Numerous media outlets have covered these practices – including ORF, Kurier, Presse, and Der Standard.
Even the Vienna Chamber of Commerce regularly warns against dishonest locksmiths and advises consumers to stick to verified providers.

How much does a locksmith cost in Vienna?

Prices for locksmith services in Vienna vary widely – depending on the time of day, the provider, and the type of door opening.
But one thing’s clear: A trustworthy locksmith will tell you the price upfront – no tricks, no hidden fees.

Here are some reference ranges (incl. travel costs):

Day	Price
Working Days (during the day)	from 90–120 €
Night / Holidays	from 150–200 €

Beware of bait offers like “from €29” – they’re almost never real.
In practice, these jobs often end up costing over €500 – with no clear explanation.

How to Spot a Trustworthy Locksmith

Many shady providers take advantage of people in stressful situations.
Here’s a simple checklist to help you avoid getting scammed:

✔ Clear price given in advance – in writing or by SMS
✔ Fixed total price (incl. travel, taxes, surcharges)
✔ Valid legal imprint with an Austrian address
✔ Business license or proof of qualifications
✔ No cash payment without an invoice

A good sign:
The provider explains the process clearly and patiently over the phone – no pressure, no urgency, no “You need to book right now!”

Tip: Ask for the full price including all surcharges upfront.
An honest provider won’t mind.
A shady one will avoid the question or get defensive.

More Than Just Door Openings: What Locksmiths in Vienna Really Offer

A modern locksmith does much more than emergency openings.
Many providers have evolved into full-service security experts, offering a wide range of additional services – often on-site, fast and hassle-free.

Common additional services include:

🔁 Lock & Cylinder Replacement
After a break-in, lost keys, or tenant changes – quick and professional lock replacement.

🏠 Home Security Consultations
Assessment of weak points (like old locks or unsecured windows) and tips for better burglary protection.

📦 Installation of Extra Locks & Reinforcement Bars
Mechanical security upgrades for doors and windows – especially useful for ground floor flats or older buildings.

📋 Master Key Systems for Apartments & Offices
Planning and installing systems with master keys, access control, and logging functionality.

🔑 Key Duplication
For apartments, mailboxes, or special keys – quickly and accurately made.

🧯 Repair After Break-Ins
Fixing damage to doors, frames, or locks – often coordinated with your insurance.

A good locksmith thinks ahead – offering long-term solutions, not just quick fixes in emergencies

🔑 Frequently Asked Questions about Locksmiths in Vienna (FAQ)

What does a door opening cost?

Prices vary depending on the provider, time of day, and complexity.

On weekdays during the day, a simple door opening usually costs between €90 and €130.
In the evening or on weekends, it can rise to €150–200.
A professional provider will quote you a fixed price upfront, including travel and any surcharges.

Do I have to pay immediately?

Yes – locksmiths usually require payment on site right after opening the door.
Make sure you get a receipt or invoice. Red flag: cash only, no proof of payment.

How fast will they arrive?

Many advertise response times of 15 to 30 minutes—though this depends on traffic and your district.
A realistic arrival window in Vienna is 20 to 45 minutes.
Some even show live ETA on their website or via phone.

What to do if the key breaks?

Stay calm. Don’t try to force the broken key out.
Call a locksmith experienced with key-breakage issues.
Often, they can remove the broken piece without damaging the lock, and replace the cylinder if needed.

Will the lock always be destroyed?

No – for doors that have just shut, a reputable locksmith can almost always open them without damage.
If the door is locked or has a special lock, they may need to drill and replace the lock.
They should explain in advance what they’ll do and how much it will cost.

How to protect yourself from scams?

Demand clear price info in writing (SMS or email) upfront.
Avoid bait pricing like “from €15.”
Check the imprint and phone number—is it really a local Vienna business?
Read genuine reviews on several platforms, not just the provider’s website.
Use our comparison list of verified locksmiths in Vienna.

Weekend prices?

Typically between €150 and €200 for a basic opening.
Night and holiday surcharges are common, but should be clearly disclosed.
Our providers offer fair fixed prices even on weekends.

Is a locksmith from my district cheaper?

Not necessarily – many operate city-wide with flat travel fees inside Vienna.
What matters more is price transparency.
A nearby provider with clear fixed pricing often beats a “local” one hit with hidden fees.

What if I get locked out at night?

Stay calm.
Compare providers with 24‑hour service and transparent pricing.
Don’t just call the top Google ad—use our list of trustworthy providers with verified ratings and night pricing.

Can I pay with card?

Yes – many reputable locksmiths accept EC or credit cards. Ask in advance.
If they insist on cash, make sure they issue a receipt.
Cash only without proof = warning sign.

Which locksmiths in Vienna are truly reliable?

We’ve selected verified locksmiths in Vienna with:

Fixed price guarantees
Genuine customer reviews
Business licenses confirmed
Fast availability—even at night

Prices on holidays or New Year’s Eve?

Higher due to surcharges.
Expect €180–250 for a basic opening depending on time and provider.
A reputable locksmith will always quote the total price upfront including all surcharges.

How do I find a locksmith in Vienna with good Google ratings?

Look for:

4.5+ stars from at least 50 reviews
Detailed, real comments—not just short generic praise
A verified Vienna address in the imprint
Reviews across multiple platforms (Google, Herold, FirmenABC)
Our list features providers with verified reviews, no fake profiles.

What if a locksmith suddenly charges more?

Stay calm.
Insist on the originally quoted terms.
If no fixed price was given, request a detailed breakdown.
Only pay with an invoice, never under pressure in cash.
Tip: Take photos of the invoice, vehicle, and uniform; note names and times.
If needed, reach out to AK Vienna or consumer protection.

What types of doors can a locksmith open?

Generally:

Apartment and house doors (shut or locked)
Security doors
Office and commercial doors
Cellar, garage, and balcony doors
Interior doors and bathroom doors
Less commonly: safes, mailboxes, car doors
Prices vary, especially for security or reinforced doors.

Cost for opening a security door?

Expect €180–300 depending on lock type and time.
Tip: Ask if they have experience with security doors and can avoid damage.

Cost for a lock cylinder replacement?

A simple cylinder change usually costs €120–180, including parts, travel, and installation.
Security or multi-point systems may cost more.
Tip: Get a quote (incl. parts) before the work begins.

What happens during a break-in locksmith service?

A locksmith typically will:

Secure doors or windows (with emergency locks or boards)
Replace damaged cylinders or locks
Offer advice on security upgrades
Provide an invoice for insurance
Many work with insurance and police, and offer off-hours service.

Do locksmiths in Vienna also come late at night?

Yes – there are 24-hour services, including weekends and public holidays.
Look for providers with clearly stated night surcharges.
A fair Notdienst rate between 22:00 and 06:00 is usually €180–250.

Can a cylinder be replaced without a key?

Yes – if your key is lost or stolen, the cylinder can still be replaced.
Removing the old one may require drilling.
Costs for cylinder change range between €120 and €200, depending on lock type and time.

Who pays—the tenant or landlord?

Generally:

Tenant pays if locked out or key was lost.
Landlord or property manager may pay if it’s a technical defect (e.g., faulty cylinder).
When in doubt, check your rental agreement or ask the landlord.

How to find a locksmith in Vienna with no travel fee?

Some providers waive separate travel fees within the city.
Make sure this is clearly stated on their website or mentioned on the phone—not just on the bill.
Our listings clearly highlight providers with “€0 travel fee.”

Will my home insurance cover a locksmith?

Sometimes – e.g., for insured break-in, key theft, or vandalism.
A simple lockout (door just shut) is typically not covered.
Tip: Check your policy or insurance company—some premium plans include locksmith services.

What does “door has just shut” mean and what’s the cost?

It means the door is closed but not locked—key is inside or forgotten.
A professional locksmith can usually open it damage-free in minutes.
Daytime weekday cost is €90–130.

Can locksmiths open mailbox locks?

Yes – mailbox lock opening or replacement starts at around €60–90, including a new lock.
Ask in advance if they carry the right spare lock.

How do locksmiths open double-rebate doors?

These doors sit more firmly in the frame due to extra seals.
An experienced locksmith uses special tools for damage-free opening, as long as it’s not locked.
Service costs are slightly higher than standard openings.

How to know if your lock is tamper-resistant?