Melbourne & VictoriaLast checked: 2026-10-18

When a locksmith's final bill is higher than the quote

Short answer

If a locksmith's final bill is higher than expected, ask for an itemised explanation. Compare what was advertised, what you authorised and what the business invoiced. A higher amount alone doesn't establish unlawful conduct, but you can ask when each additional charge was explained and agreed.

Compare three amounts

Opening a locked car and replacing every lost key are different jobs. If the service changed, the business should be able to explain what changed and the price it discussed with you.

Amount	Evidence and questions to check
Advertised or estimated	Keep the original advertisement, starting price, written quote, booking message or dated notes of what was said on the phone.
Agreed or authorised	Identify the exact service, key type, parts, programming, attendance, GST, conditions and any changes you agreed to.
Finally invoiced	Compare the itemised final charges. For additions, ask what extra work was done, when its price was explained and when you approved it.

Ask the business for an explanation

Consumer Affairs Victoria advises talking to the business first and keeping records of conversations. If the issue is not resolved, follow up in writing so you have a clear record of what you are disputing.

A message you can copy

Replace bracketed placeholders before sending.

On [date], I booked [service] after being quoted [amount]. My final bill was [amount]. Please provide an itemised explanation of the additional charges, including when each was discussed and authorised.

If you still disagree

If the business does not resolve the issue, see Consumer Affairs Victoria's Resolve your problem guidance for the next steps. CAV may offer voluntary dispute assistance when a complaint meets its criteria, but cannot compel a business to participate or enforce a refund. Some payment-dispute options have time limits; check them promptly and seek qualified consumer advice where appropriate.

For future jobs, use What a car-key quote should include's full quote checklist and Car-key call-out fees: what to ask before a locksmith travels's call-out fee questions.

Your next step

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