Why Choose a Master Locksmith?

Master Locksmiths Association

Licensing the professional Locksmith

The Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) is the leading trade association for the
locksmithing industry. A truly not-for-profit organisation promoting the skill and integrity
of its approximately 1,400 members, it was established over 50 years ago to set and
promote standards of conduct, practice and materials within locksmithing. Recognised
as the authoritative body for locksmithing by the police, home office, British Standards
Institute (BSI), The Risk Insight, Strategy and Control Authority - RISCAuthority
(formally IPCRes) and Building Research Establishment (BRE), the MLA also has a
subsidiary company, Sold Secure, which performs certification of security products via
manual attack testing.

In the absence of Government based licensing (meaning that anyone can call
themselves a locksmith), the MLA can provide peace of mind to the end customer
through it’s licensing scheme.
MLA licensed locksmith companies, who undergo strict vetting (including criminal record
checks, regular inspections to ensure quality etc), are able to provide advice based on
knowledge and experience, recommend products that are fit for purpose as well as
provide professional installation and maintenance services.
The Approved Companies inspectorate means the MLA can demonstrate that all
Company Members are meeting high standards. Each company is inspected on a
regular basis, thus ensuring that its members and their operatives maintain standards in
workmanship and administration. Also members are expected to conform to legal
requirements and customer charters exist to ensure customer satisfaction.
Inspections have the effect of making locksmithing companies more accountable for
their daily operations. Approved Company members are made aware that the MLA
considers that training is an essential means to maintaining standards and the
association provides training and information through various means.
The Logo depicted on the bottom right hand corner is the one that is advertised by an
approved company on their premises, vehicles and stationery, confirming to the public
the standards expected of them.
Channels of arbitration exist to fully investigate any complaints or disputes, should they
arise, and the MLA advises or takes any necessary action depending on the outcome