How and When to Find the Right Locksmith

As a locksmith professional, who specializes not only in lock installs, repairs and openings but also in security systems, duplicate keys, and security advice for homes, businesses and vehicles, I’ve seen it all.

Unfortunately in my tenure, I’ve seen plenty of locksmith scams. They are a common problem targeting individuals who are locked out and are in need of urgent assistance. Scammers may advertise low service fees, but then inflate prices once on site. They’ll use intimidation tactics or damage locks unnecessarily to justify a higher fee. To avoid falling victim, it’s important to research reputable locksmiths in advance and verify credentials before allowing any work to be done. Put a phone number in your phone before you ever need it so you don’t become a victim.

Look for red flags to prevent a scary situation:

1. Ask where the locksmith is calling from. If you get no answer, most likely it is at dispatch center, even if it’s a number that appears local. Dispatchers don’t always vet the locksmiths in the service and there is no guarantee you are getting service you can trust.
2. If the locksmith pulls up in an unmarked car or truck this can be a red flag. You want a name you can trust, who has a tenure in the business and is willing and happy to advertise themselves by their name. An unmarked vehicle suggests they’re hiding something.
3. If you’ve called for lock out assistance and the locksmith walks up with the drill and says the lock cannot be picked before even looking at it, this smith is just looking to increase your bill, not provide you with the best service possible.
4. Invoices with no name, address or phone number are a sure fire sign that this “professional” doesn’t provide trustworthy work and isn’t someone who expects to be contacted for future business (and perhaps wants to avoid being contacted for complaints.)
5. If when you go to pay they insist on cash or a check made out to the locksmith personally, be wary. Checks made out to individuals could be cashed right away. Always make a check out to a company which must be deposited and takes approximately three days to clear. Protect yourself.

Finding the right locksmith is often saved for a time of desperate need. Do yourself a favor and find the right one today. Never trust the safety of your home, business, or loved ones to a last minute phone call.