When looking for a locksmith you need to make sure you hire only a licensed locksmit in order to avoid being scammed or taken advantage of.
Here are some useful tips on how to distinguish between a professional locksmith and a fraud one.
Choose a Local Locksmith
Choosing a local locksmith is always the most informed choice and you can always check out reviews related to their services and also to be able tracing them if future issues arise. Make sure that your chosen locksmith has clear contact details like a local office address and a local telephone number. Take your time and conduct a fast online search in order to confirm their all those details if possible.
Verify License and ID
It is very important to check the identity of the person who’s about to deal with your locks and enter your property. In most states locksmiths must be licensed in order to legally practice their profession and offer their services. Making sure the person who identify as the locksmith technician shows evidence of this before you start working with him. Be cautious of anyone using unmarked or vehicle and check if all marked details on the his working van match the company name, phone number and address to those that was initially contacted. Another indicate to know that you’re dealing with a reliable locksmith is the fact that they’ll always ask for proof of ownership for the house before starting any kind of work especially a house lockout service.
Get an Estimate
A good way to distinguish between registered and unregistered locksmiths is by requesting an in front estimate or quote over the phone or by email. An unlicensed locksmith may quote suspiciously low prices before he arrives and plan on taking advantage of you later with hidden fees or other issues.
Refuse to Lock Drilling
Lock drilling should be the last resort after the locksmith has tried almost every other conventional way possible. Drilling is usually how non professional locksmiths add additional charges onto bills without informing clients ahead of time.
Avoid Being Exploited
To avoid being exploited it’s very important to conduct a thorough research before you hire a locksmith but if you find yourself in an emergency situation like being locked out of your house and need their service ASAP prepare yourself for the worst case scenario and get ready as much as you can as things can go against your plans.
