Robin Killick is still relatively new to locksmithing, but doors, windows and mechanisms have been the backbone of his working life for more than two decades.
After 26 years in the double-glazing industry, working his way up from labourer to installation manager, Robin launched Killick Locksmiths to add a complementary, more specialist service, to his skillset. Based in Swanley, Kent, his business blends deep practical experience with a growing reputation for thoughtful, repair-led locksmithing.
A Career That Started at 16
I left school at 16 and got into double glazing through my neighbour, who worked for Focus Windows. He asked if I wanted a bit of work just to see what working life was like. That turned into a career.
I started as a labourer and worked my way up to installation manager. I began in 1999 and spent 26 years in the trade, mainly around Swanley in Kent. Even now, I still do some work for Focus. Double glazing has been a huge part of my life, and it’s given me a proper understanding of doors, windows, and how buildings really function day to day.
What it also gave me was a fascination with how things work. When you’re fitting and adjusting doors for years, you start noticing where systems fail and how often problems get brushed aside.
Why Locksmithing Made Sense
Locksmithing felt like a natural next step. In double glazing, we’d often come across lock or mechanism issues, but the solution was usually ‘replace and renew’. New door, new unit, move on.
I started thinking there had to be another way. Locksmithing appealed because it’s more specialised and requires a different mindset. It’s not just about swapping things out, it’s about repairing, adjusting, and extending the life of what’s already there.
Friends in the trade encouraged me as well. They said it was good work and, as you get older, you don’t really want to be lifting heavy windows forever. Locksmithing wasn’t totally out of my comfort zone, but it definitely pushed me to think differently.
Repair Over Replacement
At the moment my work is roughly 70% double glazing and 30% locksmithing, and they complement each other nicely.
The biggest difference is perspective. In double glazing, replacement is often the default. In locksmithing, repair comes first. My focus now is on fixing the door properly and maintaining its longevity, rather than immediately replacing components.
That problem-solving element is what I enjoy most. Understanding why a lock or mechanism has failed, making the right adjustment, and getting it working smoothly again is far more satisfying than just fitting something new.
Stepping Into Self-Employment
Although I’d been in the trade for years, self-employment was new to me. Suddenly I was responsible for everything – paperwork, invoicing, marketing, social media – on top of the actual work.
I’ve kept things deliberately local. I work within about a 25-mile radius of Swanley. The M25 can be a nightmare, and there’s no point losing hours to traffic. It gives me a decent patch to cover, and importantly it’s not oversaturated with locksmiths. I did my research before starting and made sure I wasn’t stepping on anyone’s toes.
I’ve actually made friends with other locksmiths locally, like Ben from Armoured Security. That support network makes a big difference when you’re working on your own.
The Challenge of Switching Off
One of the hardest parts of being a sole trader is knowing when to switch off. Out-of-hours work can be a challenge, and it always seems that when you finally decide to take a day off, that’s when the phone rings.
You have to make time for downtime, otherwise the job takes over. That balance is something I’m still working on. Another adjustment has been working alone. I went from being part of teams to being by myself most days. It can feel lonely at times, and it definitely takes getting used to.
The Satisfaction of Doing It Right
What I really love is the satisfaction. When you get something working properly again, or you manage a lockout using non-destructive entry, it’s a great feeling.
Lockouts are a big part of what I do, and I take pride in resolving them cleanly. Anyone can drill a lock, but knowing when you don’t need to makes all the difference for the customer. That’s where locksmithing really clicked for me – it rewards patience, knowledge and technique.
Document Searches & Unusual Work
I also carry out document searches through GSC agency work, which can be very varied. These are usually properties where someone has passed away and solicitors need paperwork to move probate forward.
Often there are no keys, so non-destructive entry isn’t relevant. You drill the locks, secure the property, and then start searching. Sometimes you find documents in 15 minutes, other times it can take hours.
What’s interesting is that you start to build a picture of the person who lived there. Their life, their habits, even their family history. I’ve found documents in Rochester dating back to 1890.
You don’t usually find out what happens in the end. Once the documents are handed over to the estate agent and solicitors, that’s the last you hear. But it’s good work, you’re paid for access, lock changes and time spent searching. I feel like I’m part of Hier Hunters!
Training & the Locksmith Community
I trained with the UK Locksmith Association in Essex, and I’d recommend them. They have a good way of getting the information into your head, especially if you’re coming from a related trade.
I’ve also attended the MLA open day in Rugby and MLA Expo last year. It had a really friendly vibe. The seminars were useful, and it reinforced how strong the locksmithing community is when you engage with it.
I’m also part of a few WhatsApp groups, including one through the Active Lock Centre. When you’re working solo, being able to ask questions or share experiences is invaluable.
Marketing, Social Media & Reality
I use Facebook and Instagram, and they’ve brought in a bit of work, but I know I need to invest more time into them. I find that posting photos of jobs before and after works well. My website needs improving as well – making it more presentable and posting more regularly.
Photos can be tricky, especially on the double-glazing side. Customers can be funny about it, and some expect something in return for letting you use their job for marketing.
For now, my focus is on consistency rather than chasing scale.
Looking Ahead
In the future, I’d like to get into auto locksmithing. I’ve got my eye on a few courses and it’s something I’ll move into when the time is right.
For the time being, it’s about steady growth, adding skills, and doing the job properly rather than trying to grow too fast.
More information
Killick Locksmiths is an independent Swanley-based business providing locksmith services to residential customers and the construction industry across Kent. Founded by Robin Killick, the company combines decades of experience in double glazing with a repair-focused locksmithing approach, specialising in lockouts, non-destructive entry, mechanism repairs and specialist agency work.
07971 965023
www.killicklocksmiths.co.uk
killick@email.com