100% Reliable Service 10 Years Experience
Encountering a scam when trying to hire a locksmith is not uncommon. In fact, locksmithing scams can happen just about anywhere and can affect anyone. Locksmithing scams occur because people put their faith and trust in services that they need immediately and under the assumption that those helping them are trustworthy. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. To avoid a locksmithing scam, there are several steps you can take and things you can do to protect yourself and your family.
The number one way to find a locksmith in your area that you know you can trust is to hire one that your friends or family members have worked with in the past. A lot of locksmiths gain their reputations via word-of-mouth and it is likely that if you talk to your network, you may just find a locksmith that you can rely on that your friends or family can vouch for. If you can talk directly to someone you know that has worked with a particular locksmith or business, you will likely feel more comfortable hiring them.
You can also check out online reviews. Various online review sites may be able to help you find the best locksmith in your area. It should be noted, however, that some review sites may not provide the entire picture. Online review sites can sometimes use dishonest or fake reviews. Locksmithing companies may pay review sites directly to post positive reviews for their business, or they may pay individuals to write positive, but false reviews.
Be sure to be on guard if every review you read in regard to a certain locksmith sounds generically positive or vague. Also, look at usernames and other details of reviewers to determine whether or not they might actually be real customers. Also, be sure to cross-reference multiple review sites. One particular site might mention that a locksmith is fantastic, while several others might give you a more realistic or insightful look into their services.
Whatever locksmith you choose, it is imperative that they have proper training and certification, as well as insurance. Without these three particular elements present, you may be putting yourself, your locksmithing project, or your wallet at risk. In order to become a professional locksmith, an individual must receive the proper training, pass a state exam, and carry locksmithing insurance. Depending on the type of locksmithing requests you have, different insurance policies may be necessary. Be sure to inquire about what kinds of insurance the locksmith you plan to work with carries, as well as where they received their training and certification.
Do not rely on the internet alone to determine which locksmith to choose. Call a few potential locksmiths to see how you are treated over the phone, as well as to receive price quotes and other information. Calling will give you the opportunity to speak to an actual person, ask questions pertaining to your specific lock and key requests. You will also get a better feel for how you will be treated while working with a certain locksmith. Sometimes, online reviews or internet impressions do not tell the full story. It is important to have hands-on interactions with the locksmithing business you plan to work with, prior to scheduling an appointment. Even if their website offers the ability to schedule an appointment directly online, it is highly advised that you call and speak to an actual person. This will help you receive the best service, as well as avoid a scam of some sort.
A professional and competent locksmith will always use the most minimally invasive techniques when it comes to repairing or replacing your locks. Drilling your locks is a procedure that locksmiths will only perform as a last resort. If you happen to hire a locksmith for any kind of lock and key request and they insist on drilling your locks immediately, this should be considered a red flag. While drilling may be necessary on occasion, it is pretty rare.
Drilling one’s locks can be incredibly expensive. Sometimes this particular procedure can cost thousands of dollars. Locksmithing scams may involve drilling of some sort, simply to trick home and business owners into giving them more money. If at any time, the locksmith you have hired wants to drill your locks, be sure to ask for a detailed explanation. Inquire about what has already been done to alleviate any problems that do not involve drilling your locks. Do not be afraid to ask for clarification. You may even want to ask for a second opinion or additional verification that drilling your locks is necessary.
Once you have narrowed down a few choices or a specific locksmith you would like to work with, give them a call! Most locksmiths are open 24-hours a day and you can likely get in touch within an expert at any time to answer any questions or help with any concerns you have. Be sure to ask any specific questions you have about your home, business, or vehicle lock and key needs prior to having a locksmith sent out to your location. Making sure you and the locksmith you choose are on the same page right from the start is important. Make sure you are clear about their pricing policies, services, and other procedures relevant to your needs.
