If you asked a neighbor or friend if they knew a good locksmith, they probably wouldn’t. This is because most people are not prepared for lock and key emergencies! Don’t be left to endure the frustrations of being on the outside looking in. This guide will assist you in selecting the proper locksmith.
Never agree to having your lock completely replaced simply because you locked yourself out of your home or business. A locksmith that knows what they are doing will not need to change the lock. If you switch out the lock, a simple job could turn into an expensive one.
When painting your home, make sure to cover up any locks before doing the doors. Locksmiths need to be called if you accidentally seal the hole in the lock. It might take a little extra time to cover up all your locks, but you will lose more time, as well as money, if you end up having to call a locksmith to fix everything.
Do not hire anyone until you have researched their business and their reputation. You need to be sure that you’re not going to hire someone that doesn’t have your best interest in mind. Avoid scammers by checking reviews; the last thing you need is someone making a copy of your keys.
Many people think they will never need a locksmith, but it’s a good idea to find a reputable locksmith in your area before you actually need them. Research and find a professional locksmith before you need one. Go ahead and save the locksmith’s number in your cell phone so that you have it in case of an emergency.
Business Hours
Avoid extra expenses by calling the locksmith in his business hours. After hours, the cost of a locksmith can greatly vary. The after hours fees can often be double the fees charged during normal business hours.
If you are not sure whether a locksmith is reliable or not, you should check the BBB website. This can help you identify any person trying to scam you. Also, ALOA.org is another great organization that you can check to verify any locksmith you wish to use.
If you get a certain quote over the phone but it goes up once the locksmith gets on site, let them know you will look for help elsewhere. There are too many locksmiths out there for you to deal with one that is not upfront and honest with you.
Try to find a locksmith who is a member of a professional locksmith organization. It’s not a must, but being a part of trade organizations keeps him current on changes to the field. It will also allow you to know that they’re not just going to try and take your money and not do their work right.
If the time allows, quickly check any locksmith you’re thinking of calling on the Internet. There are a great number of consumer sites where you can find honest reviews. Do not use a site that is affiliated with any particular locksmith or locksmith group. Check with the BBB before you hire a locksmith.
Although saving money is always a goal, do not hire a locksmith whose price seems to good to be true. The lowest prices offered are usually from those who don’t really have any business doing locksmith work or services. Find someone who charges a reasonable price and has good reviews.
Find a locksmith before you lock your keys in your car. Your choices won’t be as good if you wait. If you call only in an emergency, you may end up with an unethical locksmith who has the keys to your house.
Ask the locksmith how long they’ve been doing business. Locksmiths who have been doing this for a long time are typically trustworthy and reliable. Though new locksmiths are not necessarily unworthy of your business, experience can be an important factor.
Ask the locksmith for references of previous customers. Many businesses have no problem providing references. Be sure to call these references. Determine the locksmith’s reliability and trustworthiness this way.
Avoid any locksmith who says they have to drill the lock and replace it if you have been locked out. Any skilled professional will get your door open without damaging it, and also make a replacement key for your old lock, so bear that in mind.
Good locksmiths should do more than change locks. In fact, they might even be capable of assisting you with an alarm system to really secure your home.
Ask for ID and a license from your locksmith. This will keep you as safe and secure as possible. While not all states require a license, a good locksmith will have one regardless of the local regulations.
Have a beef with the work done? Get in touch right way. If you don’t, you may end up complaining outside of the time frame they permit reparations. If you don’t get the things you want, you should speak with a consumer protection agency to help you.
What does the company hold on to after the job is finished? Does this locksmith allow a key to be stored in the same place as your home address? It would be terrible if the wrong people got access to that! Determine if this is the case before you hire them.
The first thing you need to do when you discover you are locked out of your home or car is to figure out just what the problem is. Did you leave your keys in your car? This is a lot different from having your keys stolen. While being locked out simply requires gaining entry to your car, stolen keys may require new locks or re-keying. Be clear with your locksmith about your circumstances, so that you receive the correct service.
A lot of people don’t really know who a good locksmith is until they really need their services. Putting off this decision can cost you a lot of time and effort. To ensure you’re prepared, use the tips above. You will be happy you were prepared if something happens!
