When you need a locksmith, it could be for a number of reasons. They can cut a key for you and ensure it’s done right. If you find a key missing, they can replace your locks for you. Or, at worst, they can get you in when you’re locked out. Read on to learn how to hire a great locksmith.
Cover up all of your locks before you begin painting. You will have to get a locksmith out if the hole is sealed because you won’t get your key to fit in. This may take time, but it will be worth it in the end.
One very reliable means of determining trust in your potential locksmith is the number of years they have been in business. Also, check that they’ve been set up in the same location too. Both of these facts are really good sings that you’ve found the best locksmith in the business and the one you can really depend on!
You should do your research and have the name of a reliable locksmith on you at all times. Look for online reviews and get recommendations from people you know. You want to know that you are not being taken advantage of if and when you are in an emergency situation.
Pay attention to the car the locksmith is driving. It should be adorned with his or her business slogan. If the locksmith arrives in an unmarked vehicle, it is probably best to look for someone else. The locksmith that you called may not be legitimate and may try to scam you.
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.
The locksmith should ask you for identification. Any reputable locksmith will want to ensure that you are the actual owner of the property. This may seem like an inconvenience, but you need to realize that a locksmith that asks for indentification is only trying to protect the community from theft.
Be sure to look up a locksmith on the BBB’s website. This tells you whether or not you have found a scammer. Checking the ALOA website gives you more information about a locksmith’s validity.
If you are looking for a good locksmith, you should ask friends, family and co-workers for recommendations. This is a service that many people use, so it is likely that someone can lead you to the right place. If not, you can try finding someone on a legitimate review site.
You should always receive an estimate in writing before you have any work done with a locksmith. This will let you know how much their services will cost, and ensure that you do not pay more than the stated upfront cost. You do not need a surprise when it comes time to pay.
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.
Although you are likely to seek a good price when it comes to locksmith services, you do not want to hire someone with extremely low prices. This may mean that you are dealing with an unqualified person. Get a few quotes, throw out the lowest and highest, then hire any of the middle ones.
If you end up turning away a locksmith who comes to your home for whatever reason, be careful if they become agitated. This is a person who knows how to pick locks and they’ve already proven to be unsavory. If they start trouble, call the police so that it is on record.
If you need a locksmith because you have locked yourself out of your car, talk to your auto insurance company. The company may be able to give you a list of recommended locksmith. Some insurers even offer locksmiths services as part of their policies, so be sure to ask about this.
Commercial security is a bit different than home security, so make sure that any potential locksmith has experience with commercial properties. Even if a locksmith has many years of experience providing services for residential properties, they may not understand the extra layer of security that is needed when it comes to businesses.
Check your state’s Attorney General website when researching local locksmiths. They will have information on local businesses and any complaints filed against them. This is a great way to narrow down your list only to those who are high quality companies who truly supply what they promise when you hire them.
If you are locked out, determine exactly what the issue is. Did you lock your keys in your car? This is a lot different from having your keys stolen. The former means just getting through the lock while the latter means replacing all of your locks.
Don’t assume the price they quoted you on the phone is going to be the price you’ll be charged at the time of service. A locksmith cannot provide you with the exact price when they have yet to see the problem. If the number quoted in person is much higher than that quoted on the phone, this should raise a red flag.
Talk about your home’s security with your locksmith. Locksmiths know what they are doing, and they really can help. They will let you know if you have enough protection. They may offer you specific upgrades as well.
When you find yourself in urgent need of a locksmith, the last thing you want is to be scrambling to learn how to choose a good one. The better route is to review the above information regularly, so you are never at a loss for knowledge. Then, call a locksmith, knowing you will get the best possible service.