As an independently operated locksmith business based in Leeds, we are committed to offering a truly local service backed by extensive experience. With more than 15 years in the industry, our family-run company delivers reliable and professional assistance to both residential and commercial customers. Every enquiry is handled directly by Ben Gatenby, ensuring that expert advice and clear communication are provided at all times. Our local presence allows us to respond efficiently to customer needs throughout Leeds.We believe in transparent and fair pricing, which is why we do not charge call-out fees at any time, including evenings and weekends. Additionally, we do not apply VAT, helping customers reduce overall costs. Our services include emergency access, lock repairs, replacements, and various security improvements. We offer multiple payment options, including modern digital methods, for ease and flexibility. With consistently positive customer reviews, we continue to deliver a dependable locksmith service built on trust and value.
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
We provide a professional locksmith service built on more than fifteen years of industry experience at 1st Defence Locksmiths Leeds. Our family-run approach ensures attentive service and clear pricing, free from hidden charges such as call-out fees or VAT. We supply and install reliable security solutions, with most tasks completed promptly and all work insured, certified, and guaranteed for twelve months. 
We offer a full range of UPVC door and window lock services, including installation of modern multi-point locking systems. When older mechanisms are no longer viable, we adapt the structure to suit updated solutions. Our adjustments restore correct alignment and smooth operation. Resolving minor stiffness early prevents escalating damage and protects the integrity of the locking mechanism. 
Our alarm services are designed to provide flexible and reliable security solutions for a range of properties. Being a local family-operated company, we ensure a personalised and competitively priced service. We guide clients through their options without using forceful sales tactics. Every system we install reflects the customers chosen level of complexity. 
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. 
We offer a full range of aluminium door repair solutions, addressing issues such as poor alignment and defective locking mechanisms. Our service includes supplying, fitting, and repairing components to restore proper operation. By focusing on practical and effective repairs, we ensure doors function reliably while maintaining their original standard of performance.
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)
Janine B.
Feb 28, 2026
Reece Allen
Feb 27, 2026
Phillip Macdonald
Feb 20, 2026
Ben fitted locks to all our doors and garage of our new house. As the previous owners had lost the garage key, Ben skillfully picked the lock and also changed a lock in a patio door where the retaining screw was hidden.
He was knowledgeable and explained all the tasks he needed to do well, and the added bonus of having all doors keyed alike is very convenient for us.
Would recommend Ben and 1st Defence Locksmiths highly.
He was knowledgeable and explained all the tasks he needed to do well, and the added bonus of having all doors keyed alike is very convenient for us.
Would recommend Ben and 1st Defence Locksmiths highly.
Keiron Hewitson
Feb 19, 2026
Helen Stead
Feb 09, 2026
Brad Jones
Jan 28, 2026
Samm Mace King
Jan 27, 2026
Joe
Jan 25, 2026
Amber Walker
Dec 29, 2025
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
Ben
Nov 09, 2025
Jennifer Harrison
Oct 26, 2025
Mandy Gaines
Oct 19, 2025
Brilliant service. Came within an hour and 20 mins and changed my lock to the front door as I was unable to get my key out the lock. Highly recommended. Talked me through the doors issues and realigned the door aswell for me. Also got Ben to check the back door as im having issues with that too. He's told me the issue which will be resolved ASAP. Thank you so much Ben, thats a weight lifted off my head!!
Steph Quinn
Sep 22, 2025
I was recommended to reach out to Ben by a friend who he had changed locks for previously, and I was really pleased with how responsive he was. He also took the time to explain the issue and what he was going to do to fix it, which I appreciated. I was happy with the work carried out and would definitely recommend Ben if you need a locksmith!
Niall Delaney
Sep 21, 2025
T. M.
Sep 19, 2025
Harpinder Shoker Hari
Aug 20, 2025
I had an issue with my door where the lock mechanism was catching and making it difficult to lock. The locksmith came out promptly and quickly identified the problem. He realigned the door and had everything working smoothly in no time. Very professional, friendly, and efficient serviceId definitely recommend them to anyone needing locksmith work.
Helen Jenkinson
Aug 11, 2025
Charlotte Roberts
Jul 29, 2025
Janet Mackintosh
Jul 17, 2025
Patrick Hargreaves
Jun 01, 2025
Giuseppe Torchia
May 19, 2025
Gruffalo Cottage
May 11, 2025
C. Bo D.
May 11, 2025
Simon Hobbs
Mar 11, 2025
Ben was professional in his behaviour, presentation and approach, and sorted my problem quickly and efficiently, going the extra mile to leave me with a fully adjusted and functioning door. He arrived at the arranged time (confirmed by phone an hour ahead - I was impressed that he had tried me a few times - I was driving). He gave helpful advice along the way too. I would recommend 1st Defense Locksmiths Leeds.