We are proud to operate as a genuinely local locksmith service based in Leeds, offering a reliable alternative to national firms that present themselves as local providers. As a family-run business with more than 15 years of experience, we have built our reputation on trust, professionalism, and direct customer care. When you contact us, you will speak directly with Ben Gatenby, ensuring clear communication and expert guidance at every stage. We support both domestic and commercial clients throughout Leeds, delivering a dependable and knowledgeable service tailored to each situation.
Our approach is centred on transparency and value. We do not charge a call-out fee at any time, including evenings and weekends, and we do not apply VAT, allowing our customers to benefit from immediate savings. We offer a wide range of locksmith services, from lock replacements and emergency access to door repairs and security upgrades. Payments can be made conveniently via card, Apple Pay, Google Pay, or bank transfer. With consistently strong customer feedback and a commitment to high standards, we aim to provide an efficient, cost-effective solution for all locksmith requirements.
Served areas
- Leeds
Business details
- Year established: 2008
- Licensed
- Insured
Highlights and features
- Family-run locksmiths with over 15 years experience
- No call out fee or VAT charged ever
- Emergency locksmith service available 24/7 in Leeds
- Specialists in UPVC, composite and aluminium door repairs
- High security locks and burglar alarms supplied and fitted
- Keyed alike solutions for homes and businesses
Payment methods
- Cash
- Debit cards
- Credit cards
Services
At 1st Defence Locksmiths Leeds, we provide a reliable locksmith service shaped by over fifteen years of practical experience. As a family-run organisation, we emphasise transparency and customer satisfaction, eliminating call-out fees and VAT. We supply and install dependable locks efficiently, often completing tasks immediately, with all services fully insured, DBS checked, and guaranteed for twelve months. 
Our UPVC lock services cover everything from new installations to restoring existing mechanisms. We are able to replace outdated systems by adjusting the door and frame to suit modern alternatives. Misaligned doors can be corrected to ensure reliable operation. Taking action when resistance is first noticed helps avoid costly repairs caused by excessive strain. 
We offer a complete alarm installation service designed for both homeowners and businesses. As an independent family business, we provide a tailored experience that considers budget and individual needs. Our team is committed to offering professional advice without pressure. From basic to advanced systems, every installation is completed to your specification. 
Our high security steel doors offer exceptional protection for commercial properties, combining strength, durability, and style. Available from budget-friendly 45mm options to ultra-security 70mm models, every door is fully customisable to your operational needs. We incorporate galvanised steel, multipoint locks, anti-crowbar features, and fully welded construction, making our doors suitable for exterior and high-traffic areas. The design process includes an on-site assessment to ensure perfect fit and functionality. Once manufactured, each door is expertly installed to enhance security while maintaining the aesthetic appeal of your premises. 
Our aluminium door repair service is tailored to resolve common operational problems, including alignment faults and lock failures. We restore doors to optimal condition, ensuring smooth use and secure locking. With experience across residential and commercial properties, we provide dependable solutions that extend the lifespan and functionality of aluminium door systems.
People
Ben Gatenby
Hi Im Ben Gatenby the owner and manager of 1st Defence Locksmiths Leeds. I founded my locksmith company in 2008. I already had quite a lot of locksmith experience by this point working in different disciplines of the locksmith industry. My dad was a locksmith and so I had been around the trade my whole life.
Reviews (26)
Reece Allen
Feb 27, 2026
Miss C.
Feb 25, 2026
Really pleased with the service received from Ben and Mark. I needed a lock replacing as it has broken, I called Ben and he organised for it to be replaced very quickly. Mark carried out the replacement and Im very happy with the service, standard of work and advice given. Would happily recommend this company to anyone and will be sure to return in the future if I need any assistance. Thank you!
Danny S.
Feb 25, 2026
Ben was fantastic. He called me back 20 minutes after me leaving a voicemail and was with me after another 30 minutes or so. He explained the problem, talked me through the options and had my locks fixed quickly, efficiently and at a great price.
Next time I need any locks looking at, I'll be sure to call Ben before anyone else. First class service.
Next time I need any locks looking at, I'll be sure to call Ben before anyone else. First class service.
Sarah Barnett
Feb 22, 2026
Keiron Hewitson
Feb 19, 2026
Helen Stead
Feb 09, 2026
Brad Jones
Jan 28, 2026
Joe
Jan 25, 2026
Andy Taylor
Dec 19, 2025
Paula Wheeler
Dec 12, 2025
Dan is reliable, very reasonably priced and most importantly, knows what he is doing !
I first used him to replace a locking mechanism on a door and subsequently asked him to service, realign and repair my uPVC double glazed windows
I found that he is willing to look for the best solution for his customer's budget, not upselling new parts that are not necessarily required and did the work in a neat and timely manner
I would not hesitate to recommend him
I first used him to replace a locking mechanism on a door and subsequently asked him to service, realign and repair my uPVC double glazed windows
I found that he is willing to look for the best solution for his customer's budget, not upselling new parts that are not necessarily required and did the work in a neat and timely manner
I would not hesitate to recommend him
Sharron Kaur
Dec 09, 2025
Katie Schulz
Nov 16, 2025
Chloe Jayne
Nov 14, 2025
Ben was fantastic - honest, helpful and efficient. He knew exactly what the problem was just by looking at the door. He explained everything before carrying out the work and was quick and efficient in doing so. I would absolutely recommend Ben to anyone needing work done and I won't look anywhere else if I need anything in future.
Ben
Nov 09, 2025
Clare L. Eyre
Oct 24, 2025
Niall Delaney
Sep 21, 2025
T. M.
Sep 19, 2025
Peter Womersley
Sep 15, 2025
Vygantas Valys
Sep 10, 2025
Karlitomalik
Aug 31, 2025
Kelly McKalbar
Aug 26, 2025
Helen Jenkinson
Aug 11, 2025
David Lodge
Jul 28, 2025
Alghali Family
Jul 23, 2025
Gruffalo Cottage
May 11, 2025
Maricris Valdez
Apr 17, 2025
Excellent service provided. Ben arrived on time and had been very helpful and patient in doing the job. We wanted to have the front and back door locks replaced. He straightened and righted the latch on each door, and managed to provide an outdoor lock for our back garden gate, which was an impromptu request. He went above and beyond in explaining how the locks and keys worked, how to register them online and cleans up after the job has been completed. I would recommend this company for any locksmith job.