Common Lock Issues We See in East London Properties
As a local locksmith business serving East London for over a decade, we’ve come across just about every lock-related problem you can imagine. From jammed deadbolts in Victorian terraces to faulty uPVC door locks in modern flats, the variety of properties in East London means we get called out for a wide range of issues. At London Locks, we pride ourselves on our rapid response times and friendly, reliable service—but we also believe in educating our community. That’s why we’ve put together this detailed blog to highlight the most common lock issues we see in East London homes, along with some advice on how to prevent them.
Faulty uPVC Door Mechanisms in Flats
uPVC doors are extremely common in newer builds and converted flats throughout East London, particularly in areas like Hackney, Stratford, Bow, and Canary Wharf. While these doors are known for their energy efficiency and relatively low maintenance, the locking mechanisms can be quite sensitive. One of the most frequent problems we encounter involves misaligned door frames or warped doors, which often lead to difficulty locking or unlocking the door. Over time, general wear and tear, combined with temperature fluctuations (especially in properties with a lot of direct sunlight), can cause the door to shift slightly out of alignment. When this happens, the multipoint locking system struggles to engage properly. If not addressed early, this can lead to full lock failure or, in worst cases, being completely locked out or locked in. We always recommend calling in a professional before forcing the door or trying to “wiggle” the handle repeatedly, as this often causes more damage. At London Locks, we frequently adjust and realign uPVC doors to ensure they lock smoothly again.
Jammed Mortice Locks in Older Properties
Mortice locks are a staple of many older East London homes, especially in places like Hackney, Bethnal Green, and Walthamstow. These locks are usually fitted into timber doors and are commonly found on front and back doors alike. While they are robust and secure, they are also prone to jamming, especially if they haven’t been serviced in years. One of the key causes of this issue is internal rust or a build-up of dirt and grime. We often find that older mortice locks haven’t been lubricated properly, which leads to stiff keys and eventually jammed bolts. Additionally, with older wooden doors, seasonal expansion and contraction can cause the door and the lock to misalign. In many cases, the key might still turn, but the bolt won’t engage or disengage fully. That’s usually a sign it’s time to either service the lock or consider an upgrade. We often recommend replacing outdated mortice locks with British Standard (BS3621) models for added security and compliance with most home insurance policies.
Snapped Keys in Cylinder Locks
Snapped keys are one of the most frustrating lock issues we get called out for, and they tend to happen when you’re in a rush—often during the morning school run or just as you’re heading out to work. Cylinder locks, which are common on both wooden and composite doors, are particularly susceptible to this issue, especially if the key or the lock itself is worn down. East London’s mixture of period homes and newer developments means we see all sorts of cylinders, from old Yale night latches to high-security Euro cylinders. Over time, debris, rust, or wear on the key can cause resistance when turning, which leads people to apply more pressure than they should. That pressure, combined with a weakened key, is often enough to cause a snap. At London Locks, we have the tools to extract broken keys without damaging the lock, though in some cases, a cylinder replacement is the best long-term solution. We always advise against using super glue or improvised tools to try and get the broken piece out—it nearly always makes things worse.
Lockouts Due to Lost Keys
Lockouts are one of the most common reasons people contact us, and they happen for all sorts of reasons—misplaced keys, stolen bags, or keys left inside while taking the bins out. In busy boroughs like Tower Hamlets or Newham, with dense housing and high turnover of tenants, these calls are practically a daily occurrence. We understand how stressful it can be to find yourself locked out, especially late at night or in bad weather. That’s why our team is on-call 24/7 for emergency lockouts across East London. Our non-destructive entry methods mean we’ll always try to get you back inside without damaging your door or lock. If needed, we can also replace your locks on the spot and provide fresh sets of keys. For shared homes or flats with multiple occupants, we often suggest installing key safes or smart locks to reduce the chance of accidental lockouts.
Stiff or Sticky Locks
Sometimes a lock still works, but only just. You might notice it’s getting harder to turn the key, or that you have to jiggle it just right before it clicks into place. These are classic signs of a lock beginning to seize up, and they’re very common in East London, especially during the winter months when moisture and cold affect both wooden and metal doors. We frequently see this issue in areas near the River Thames, such as Limehouse or Docklands, where the damp air accelerates corrosion inside the locking mechanism. A sticky lock might not seem like an urgent issue, but if left untreated, it often leads to full lock failure. Regular maintenance, including cleaning and lubricating your locks with the proper products (never WD-40), can go a long way. We also provide routine servicing options for landlords and managing agents looking to keep their properties in good working order.
Broken Lock Handles and Hardware
Another problem we frequently encounter is damaged lock handles or escutcheons. This is particularly common on communal doors in converted houses or blocks of flats. When several people are using the same handle multiple times a day, wear and tear accumulates quickly. In some cases, the handle might feel loose, or it could come away entirely in your hand. This kind of damage can compromise the entire lock mechanism and leave the property vulnerable. We often replace these with reinforced handles that are designed to withstand heavier use. For properties with older or period-style doors, we always aim to source hardware that matches the aesthetic while still offering modern security benefits.
Misaligned Striker Plates
One issue that’s easy to overlook—but surprisingly common—is a misaligned striker plate. This is the metal plate on the door frame that receives the bolt or latch when the door is locked. If it becomes misaligned due to a shifting frame or loose screws, the lock won’t engage properly, even if everything else seems to be working fine. We see this a lot in older terraced houses across areas like Leyton and Clapton, where original door frames have warped slightly over time. The door may still close, but it might take force to lock or unlock it, which increases the risk of damage to both the lock and the door itself. Adjusting or repositioning the striker plate is usually a quick fix, but it makes a big difference in how smoothly your door operates. At London Locks, we also check the hinges and frame to ensure there’s no underlying structural issue causing the misalignment.
Burglary Damage and Emergency Repairs
Unfortunately, East London isn’t immune to break-ins, and one of the most difficult calls we get is after a burglary. Whether it’s a snapped lock, a forced door, or a broken window latch, these situations are both upsetting and urgent. Our team is trained to respond quickly and compassionately. We’ll secure your property immediately, whether that means fitting a temporary lock, boarding up a door, or replacing broken components. We also offer advice on how to upgrade your security going forward—this might include anti-snap cylinders, additional deadbolts, or smart lock solutions. In high-risk areas, we often recommend adding a secondary locking mechanism or reinforcing vulnerable access points. Peace of mind is just as important as physical security, and we’re here to help restore both.
Security Upgrades for HMO and Rented Properties
East London has a large number of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) and private rented flats. These properties present unique challenges when it comes to locks and security. With multiple tenants, frequent key changes, and different access needs, it’s vital that landlords invest in durable, compliant locking systems. We often install keyless entry systems or high-security master key setups that allow tenants limited access while giving landlords full control. We also advise landlords on meeting fire safety requirements, especially when it comes to thumb-turn locks and emergency egress. Over the years, we’ve built strong relationships with letting agents and property managers across East London who rely on London Locks for quick turnarounds and professional service.
Seasonal Lock Problems and Maintenance Tips
As seasons change, so do the conditions affecting your locks. In winter, wooden doors expand and can cause locks to stick or misalign. In summer, the opposite might happen, with doors shrinking slightly and creating gaps that compromise security. At London Locks, we recommend seasonal checks, especially before winter sets in. Cleaning out keyholes, lubricating mechanisms, and checking for movement in door frames can save you from a cold-weather lockout or emergency call. We also offer preventative maintenance packages that include a full inspection of all doors and windows, helping homeowners stay one step ahead of common seasonal problems.
Wear and Tear in Shared Entrances and Communal Doors
Many East London properties, especially converted townhouses and blocks of flats, have shared entrances or communal access doors. These doors see much higher usage than a typical front door, and as a result, their locks and handles wear out far more quickly. We often get called to buildings in areas like Whitechapel and Forest Gate where the communal door no longer locks properly, causing major concerns for both residents and landlords. Frequent use can loosen internal components, especially in low-quality locks not designed for heavy-duty usage. In other cases, multiple users may apply force or use keys incorrectly, which adds strain over time. At London Locks, we recommend installing commercial-grade hardware designed for communal entrances, including durable electric strike plates and coded entry systems. These not only offer better longevity but also improve security. We also offer regular servicing plans for managing agents and property developers to keep entrances working reliably.
Smart Locks and Modern Security in East London Homes
As more East Londoners embrace smart home technology, we’ve seen a growing demand for smart locks and keyless entry systems. Areas like Shoreditch, Hackney Wick, and Aldgate—home to many tech-savvy professionals—are leading the way in modernising home security. At London Locks, we install a range of smart locking systems that work with smartphones, key fobs, or codes, offering both convenience and enhanced control. These systems are ideal for busy households, rental properties, or Airbnb hosts, where multiple users may need access without the hassle of key duplication. They also offer excellent audit trails, allowing you to monitor who enters and exits your home. Importantly, many of today’s smart locks come with built-in alarms and tamper alerts, further boosting your property’s safety. While smart locks aren’t suitable for every door, we’re always happy to assess your home and recommend the best solution to fit your security needs and lifestyle.
How London Locks Can Help
We’ve built our reputation on being East London’s go-to locksmiths, and we don’t take that lightly. Whether you’re dealing with a minor lock annoyance or a full-blown emergency, we treat every job with the same professionalism and care. We understand the unique architecture, housing stock, and even the neighbourhood-specific quirks that affect properties from Mile End to Manor Park. Our vans are fully stocked with parts and tools, so most jobs can be completed on the spot. We’re also transparent about pricing—no call-out fees, no hidden charges, just honest, local service from experienced professionals who genuinely care. If you’re experiencing any of the lock issues mentioned in this blog, or just want to chat about upgrading your home security, give us a ring. At London Locks, we’re always happy to help.
London Locks are locksmiths in Hackney that provide a fantastic level of service. To find out more about how we can repair your locks at a very competitive price, simply get in touch with our team at London Locks today and we will be happy to help in any way we can.