Hiring a locksmith is no laughing matter. This is someone you are trusting your security to, after all. On top of that, you want to be sure that the job is done right so you can sleep soundly at night. That means reading the advice below in order to find a great professional.
Do not immediately replace a lock when you talk to a locksmith. Skilled locksmith professionals should be able to unlock just about any door without having to replace the lock. Lock replacements could end up costing you money that you did not need to spend.
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.
If you have an attached garage, you should hire a locksmith to make sure that the door is secure. Many people fail to do this and they end up having someone enter their home unauthorized. Even if you close and secure the garage dorr, you should still have a lock put on the door to the house.
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.
Do not hesitate to call a locksmith in the event you need duplicate keys for your vehicle. Most auto dealers will give you the idea that they are the only ones authorized to do this. They say this in order to guarantee you will hire them in your time of need.
Before you hang up the phone with a locksmith, tell them you want a written and signed estimate before they start the job. Anyone who hesitates is looking to make a few quick bucks. You should also make sure to get a receipt after all of the work has been done.
Ensure that the locksmith is licensed before hiring him. This certification ensures that he has the necessary skill to perform the work. Each state offers licensing of locksmiths. When the locksmith arrives, ask for identification, a business card and his pocket license. This will help ensure that the person you are dealing with is who he says he is.
Find out if the company you are considering working with has ever had another name. In some instances, companies switch their names because customers were unhappy with their work. This helps them escape negative reviews. While a company may not be honest with you about this, it does not hurt to ask.
While anyone can work as a locksmith, you want to find someone with experience, education and a good reputation. To do that, just use the information you’ve read above to locate your best local option. If you put to use the knowledge here, you’ll have no problem finding someone outstanding.