Broken window lock trade question

[bluesclues91]

Moved house, over half of the windows don't shut properly / don't lock shut which means it's cold all the time and not secure.

What trade would I need to come and fix this? A lock smith? Check a trade seems to be suggesting locksmiths but not sure if this is right.

Thank you!

I think a lock smith but do you have a neighbour who could recommend one ? Otherwise find some rated reasonably round you ( do you have a local website for neighbours )

What kind of windows are they? A window repair company sorted these for us on UPVC ones (along with a couple.of blown panes).

Depending on the type of window it can be the hinges or similar rather than the locks when they don't close properly.

I had similar in my house when I moved in, and found a UPVC window repaired who fixed the issues.

My local glazier can (and has) replaced locking handles on windows. I’d start there.

If the windows are uPVC it's doable as a DIY job. Remove one of the locks and go to a trade counter to get a replacement of the same type - you'll usually be able to find one that specialises in windows. Get replacement locks with the same size spindle and replace the ones that are there. Usually involves undoing two screws (they're usually under covers you can pop off with a small flat head screwdriver) and pulling out the lock. You slot the new lock's spindle into the hole and screw the new lock into place.

Oh and if you're unlucky enough to discover you've bought long spindle locks and some of the old locks are short spindles, you can use a junior hacksaw to cut the spindle down to size instead of going back to the trade counter.

It depends on the windows:

If uPVC or metal frames, then call a local window fitter.

If timber, either a window fitter or a carpenter will be able to help.

@NigelHarmansNewWife very helpful thank you

Thanks all!

You can buy the replacement handles with locks for PVC windows in B&Q. I’ve changed them myself.

@Reticulocyte was it very easy?
I'm not handy at all and there's probably about 12 that need doing!!!

See also my posts upthread. You can very likely save money by buying from Screwfix or Toolstation (affiliated to B&Q and Wickes respectively) or an independent trade counter, probably on the very same industrial estate. It will save you money on the locking handles and on labour. I've done it twice - once when selling a house and once when moving into one.

OP yes it was, but you need to know how thick your windows are. I bought locks where you could saw the shank off to the correct length. I followed a YouTube video!