For over 20 years, Fort Locks has been a trusted locksmith service throughout Hertfordshire and London built not only through algorithms or search engine rankings, but through integrity, hard work, and meaningful human connections.
At the heart of Fort Locks is founder Kevin Carloni, a seasoned locksmith with over 30 years’ experience. Kevin believes that real success comes not just from technical ability, but from doing honest work, building relationships, and earning trust the old-fashioned way face-to-face, job-by-job. His unique ‘spiders’, a loyal network of clients and property professionals, have carried his name and reputation further than any SEO strategy could.
From Teenage Curiosity to Trusted Professional
I’m 53 now, but my locksmithing journey started at 16 or 17, riding along with a locksmith friend on jobs. At 22, I was selling cars but locksmithing kept calling me back.
After completing a few locksmithing courses, and gaining hands on experience with other professionals, I decided to go ‘all in’ launching my business Fort Locks.
Back then, Yellow Pages was literally the main source of advertising, and I remember spending hours learning how to quickly rise-up in the listings.
One of my first notable clients was TV personality Shane Ritchie, who, when he needed a locksmith, phoned me purely because he liked my business name ‘Fort Locks’. That was all the confirmation I needed to focus solely on building the brand.
The Loan, the Testimonials & the Spiders
Starting Fort Locks wasn’t without risk, I took out a £15,000 loan to fund a van and Yellow Pages ads. But that investment sparked relentless hustle: personally, visiting estate agents, property management companies and hand-delivering invoices just to build face-to-face relationships.
Those early relationships became what I call my ‘little spiders’ who were essentially property professionals who’ve carried Fort Locks’ good name from company-to-company over the years, because they trust and value my work. Every satisfied client is asked for a testimonial. Don’t be shy if you’ve done a good job, ask for the praise! People buy people. It’s not rocket science. While many businesses chase rankings and ads, I believe that nothing beats authentic relationships. A face-to-face referral is worth more than any online click.
Professionalism on Four Wheels
I pride myself on always having the right tools and stock for the job, and that means a fully equipped van. From my early days with a humble Vauxhall Combo to now being on my third VW Transporter, I’ve always made sure my vans are well equipped and a true reflection of the Fort Locks brand.
For me, a well-kitted-out van is a mobile office. First impressions matter: when you turn up with the right tools, a professional setup, and branded clothing, clients feel instantly reassured that they’re in safe hands.
Advice for Aspiring Locksmiths
If you’re starting out, my advice is simple: go all in or don’t bother. Work nights, get yourself on directories like Checkatrade, TrustATrader, and Which, and collect testimonials you’re your livelihood depends on it (because it does). Don’t sit around waiting for the phone to ring, get out there and build relationships! It takes grit. It’s hard graft, but it pays off.
Character at the Core of the Business
Fort Locks is more than a business – it’s a reflection of my values. From the personalised number plate FT10CKS to my honesty and tidiness, I like to think the personal touch defines every aspect of what I do.
There’s no room for dishonesty in this trade, and I sleep well at night knowing I’ve done right by my customers. That kind of integrity future-proofs any business.
Sadly, not everyone in the industry shares that mindset. I’ve heard stories of customers being charged thousands of pounds for simple jobs. To me, that’s not just bad business, it’s unethical, and I won’t be a part of it.
The Job: The Good, The Bad, The Unexpected
What do I enjoy most? The freedom and satisfaction of a job done well. My van is fully stocked with everything I need. If it’s not in there, it’s probably a bespoke lock. I always aim to complete the job in one visit.
Least favourite task? Key cutting. It’s repetitive but it’s part of the service, especially for property managers.
Some situations are unpredictable – awkward clients, false lockout stories, or misunderstandings about filming work for transparency. You learn to tread carefully, ask questions, and use good judgment. This job keeps you on your toes!
Collaboration Over Competition
I’m a firm believer in community over competition. I often collaborate with other locksmiths, especially as door locks and technology are continuously evolving. If I’m busy, I pass work on – and they do the same for me. We all have different strengths, and over the years we’ve built real trust with each other.
A lot of my networking know-how comes from my 12+ years in BNI. It’s about meeting people, identifying who’s reliable, and building relationships that are genuinely mutually beneficial.
Looking Ahead: Sharing the Load
My wife keeps telling me I can’t keep up this pace forever. She’s probably right, she usually is! Eventually, I’ll need to bring someone on board, but they’ll have to be the right fit.
Until then, I’ll keep doing what I do best: turning up promptly, doing the job properly, and treating people with respect. I work to live, not live to work, but I always get out of bed and get the job done. That’s who I am.
More info
Fort Locks has been a trusted name in Hertfordshire for over two decades. At Fort Locks, the difference is simple: honesty, professionalism, and a personal touch. Whether it’s a domestic lockout, a commercial security upgrade, or an emergency call-out, Kevin’s commitment to fair pricing, tidy workmanship, and reliable service remains unmatched.
It’s not just about LOCKS it’s about TRUST.
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