Do you know how to locate a great locksmith? Waiting for an emergency is not a good idea. For advice on selecting a great locksmith, read on.
To protect your safety when hiring a locksmith, be sure to check the locksmith’s identification before allowing him or her to enter your home. Several states, including Texas, Illinois, California, Alabama, Louisiana, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Tennessee and New Jersey, require locksmiths to be professionally licensed. Ask to see your locksmith’s license.
Cover your locks before painting. If you paint over the key hole and seal it, the key won’t fit in and you’ll need to contact a locksmith. It might take some time to get all the locks covered, but it isn’t nearly as long as it would take to get those locks changed by a locksmith.
While it is important to understand how much the job will cost, it is also important to be aware of any other fees involved in the process. For example, some locksmiths charge extra for emergency service. Others will tack on a fee if they have to drive a certain distance. Question the locksmith about this so that you understand how much you will be charged.
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.
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.
When a locksmith comes to help you, always ask to see their ID. In some states, the locksmith has to have a license as well, like in California, North Carolina, New Jersey and Texas. Do your research ahead of time so you know what documentation your locksmith needs to have.
Make sure you are handed a receipt after paying for locksmith services. Most locksmiths are of course honest, but there are scam artists out there. So, make sure that you have documentation that you services rendered were fully paid for. Keep the receipt in case there is an issue.
Use the Better Business Bureau website to determine the reliability of a locksmith. This can help you avoid scammers. Also, check the ALOA site, which determines the validity of U.S. locksmiths.
The best way to find the most reliable locksmith is usually word of mouth. When you need one, start asking your friends and family who they trust. From there, check with the local BBB or other agency that will provide information about reputations. Don’t just trust anyone with the keys to your home!
Having a qualified locksmith available will help you in lockout situations. You can avoid having to wait for hours and spend a lot. Do your research for a quality locksmith to call in these situations. Apply the advice in this piece and be prepared for whatever might happen.