There are very few things that fill you with as much dread as realizing that you have locked yourself out of your home, car or business. While locksmiths are available to help get your day back on track, there are certain tips and advice that are important to consider when working with these individuals. Hopefully, the information that follows will help you understand how to proceed in what can be a very stressful situation.
Do not let the locksmith begin work until he or she has given you an estimate. Rather than simply getting a verbal estimate, insist that the locksmith write the quote down on paper. This way, you have proof of the number that you were quoted. As long as you agree with the price, work can commence at that point.
Research a locksmith before you hire one. This will help protect you when you need the services of a locksmith. Unfortunately, there are a few shady locksmiths who make duplicate keys without authorization, so you need to be careful.
Many locksmiths will quote you a price over the phone. If they get to your location and change their mind, do not continue working with them. They are simply trying to take advantage of the situation, and you should be wary. There are a number of locksmiths in any given area, so do not feel trapped into using someone that you aren’t comfortable with.
When checking the credentials on any potential locksmith, don’t forget about a possible alias, or other name under which they might have operated. While not everyone will reveal this information, it should be readily available to you online and elsewhere. While a name change isn’t always a bad sign, it’s something you should know about when seraching!
Most legitimate locksmiths will arrive in a service vehicle. If the locksmith does not arrive in a service vehicle, you should take extra care to ensure that he is not a scam artist. Ask for identification before allowing him to begin. This identification should include a pocket license along with business cards.
Always ask your locksmith for professional identification before you let him into your home. It’s all too easy to advertize as a locksmith when you really are not one. Also, be careful where you find yours. While there are many reputable businesses on places like Craigslist, you really never know!
Most locksmiths are aware of how to pick a lock and help you gain access to your home. If you are told that the entire lock needs to be replaced, you should see this as a warning sign. This costs significantly more than picking the lock, which is the reason some locksmiths will say it is necessary.
Only hire a locksmith that is bonded and has insurance. If he or she messes up on the job, you want to make sure you are protected and that you will be reimbursed for the damages. Knowing that the company has taken this type of precaution should give you peace of mind as the work on your property begins.
Make sure to inquire about a locksmith’s history in the business. If it has been a significant amount of time, chances are they are reliable and trustworthy. New locksmiths are not necessarily untrustworthy, but you should be careful about the lack of experience.
Once you are given a quote by a locksmith, ask them what it is included in this price. Some locksmiths will give you a low price, then they will tell you there are more charges once they get to you. Asking a few questions will clear everything up so there is no confusion later.
Check the BBB website before you hire a locksmith to come and service your home or auto. This is an extra step that may take a bit of time, but it can save you from a bad experience. If you see evidence of a lot of complaints, you should definitely consider someone else.
It is a bit scary to be locked out of your vehicle in an empty parking lot, but don’t allow a situation like this to cloud your judgement. If you call a locksmith and someone shady shows up, you should let them know that you will not be needing their services after all. Bad signs include lack of licensing, unmarked vehicles and a refusal to hand over an ID.
Don’t sign any blank forms which authorize work being done! This just opens you up to being fleeced for all you are worth. If you receive an estimate, try to get it in writing. If they arrive and say that the job is going to cost significantly more, send them on their way.
Check out local consumer protection agencies when you are creating your list of potential companies to hire. They will provide you with information on both good companies and those which have many complaints against them. This extra step is worth it in helping you to narrow down your list.
If you Google the company you wish to hire and find nothing, be wary. Some locksmiths who provide subpar work will change the name of their company to get away from bad reviews. Obviously, if the company name is also the locksmith’s name, it will be harder to change.
Look for locksmiths that have been doing what they are dong for a long time. If they claim to be new, ask for references from their previous location. Search online for their name and where they used to work so you can see if they were reviewed in the past.
Trade organizations are a great way to find local locksmiths you can consider. For example, the Associated Locksmiths of America will provide you with a list of locksmiths in your area. While they can’t all be guaranteed to be high quality, it gives you a list to start your research with.
If you live in a state where licensing is mandatory, ask your locksmith how you can verify that their license is current. If they happily give you that information, you can double check their license. On top of that, you know that they are likely a trustworthy professional as a result.
Whether you are locked out, moving in, building new or just want to upgrade your current security system, a good locksmith will be a huge help. They have the skills you need to stay protected. Find a local professional today with the advice found here and you’ll solve your problems quickly.