KLS Locks is now Master Locksmith Association (MLA) Approved

KLS Locks is delighted to announce we are now Master Locksmith Association (MLA) approved. This marks a significant milestone in our journey, giving our customers even more confidence in our high level of professionalism, technical skill and excellent customer service.

What is the MLA?

The MLA is a ‘not for profit’ industry body for locksmiths in the UK.  In fact, they are the largest trade association for locksmiths in the UK. The MLA seeks to set and promote:

• the highest standards in conduct
• best locksmithing practices
• the most appropriate, suitable and correct materials

A number of important organisations recognise the MLA as the UK’s leading authority on all things related to locksmithing. This includes the police, the Home Office and the British Standards Institute (BSI).

How does a locksmith become MLA approved?

It is not easy for a locksmith to become MLA approved. Entry standards are demanding and comprises of three main elements which must be successfully negotiated:

• Standard level DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) check. This is a type of criminal record check and includes details of all spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands and final warnings.
• Company inspection. This is carried out initially and then on an ongoing basis. (E.g. two years after the first inspection, three years after the first inspection and then every three years). Additional inspections are mandated if there is a significant change in personnel or premises.
• MLA exam. This is an intensive undertaking comprising four modules. It includes a written exam, fitment of a euro mortice deadlock, opening of a BS 5 lever deadlock and key cutting by hand. These modules are completed over a two day period. On passing the exam candidates are awarded QML (Qualified Master Locksmith) status.

Benefits of choosing an MLA locksmith

Essentially choosing an MLA locksmith will give you peace of mind that the locksmith coming to your home is trustworthy and highly skilled. Unfortunately, there are many companies still employing unskilled or untrained “locksmiths. This type of “locksmith” will usually take a drill to your lock straight away as they will not have the skills needed to pick it. This will lead to an inflated price as a new lock will then be required.

With an MLA locksmith, you will know that they have been deemed trustworthy by an important industry locksmithing body. You can also feel secure in the knowledge that they have met exacting standards in technical competence. In addition, in the unlikely event that you have any complaints regarding an MLA accredited locksmith, there is an easy to fill complaints form. This is provided via the MLA website with an expert team on hand to offer advice if required. If your complaint is upheld, this can have significant repercussions professionally for the locksmith.

Do you need a skilled local locksmith you can trust? KLS Locks is an affordable, MLA approved local locksmith based in Orpington. We offer 24 hour locksmith services for customers throughout Kent and South London. We always arrive in sign written vans and the price you are quoted is the price you will pay.