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When it comes time to hire a locksmith, whether in an emergency or for security services or maintenance, it’s crucial to find the right company. Other companies have inadequately-trained, inexperienced workers that rush through the job, leaving you with poor-quality work. Don’t let this happen to you.
Instead, read on for tips on how to choose the perfect locksmith company for your security needs. The ideal company will offer experienced locksmith technicians, affordable prices, fast assistance, and a wide scope of locksmith services that covers your automotive, commercial, and residential needs. They will partner with you in ensuring that your security needs are met in a cost-effective, efficient manner.
Don’t wait until you’re facing a lockout emergency from your home or vehicle, or another locksmith-related emergency, to begin searching for a locksmith. Desperation will surely lead you to pick the first company you can find, just to have the situation resolved. This often leads to choosing a company that looks flashy but performs poor-quality works and charges hidden fees. Instead, use this guide to pick out a locksmith company you can call on whenever you need them, and save their number on your fridge or somewhere else that can be easily accessed in an emergency.
It’s best to pick a locksmith company that’s available to meet your needs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This is an especially important factor because lock and key issues can happen any time of the day or night, and you need a company that can assist you immediately when they do.
It’s best to find 3-5 top locksmith companies in the area to choose between, to give yourself real options. We recommend compiling this information on paper or on a note-taking app. Read the company’s website and give them a call with questions to learn their rates and prices, about their services, and if they have additional fees for service outside of business hours. Ask about the company’s prior experience and where they are located. Don’t be afraid to ask the company’s phone representative any questions that may pop into your mind. If the representative is evasive about giving you answers or otherwise brushes off your questions, that’s a major red flag.
Most locksmith companies that are worth their salt will have no problem giving you a free quote over the phone. They will also honor that quote in person and be very open about any additional costs. If the company you choose suddenly raises their price significantly once they reach your location, strongly consider firing them and going with a different company. Make sure the quote that they give you is comprehensive and includes both service fees and charges for the work itself.
Alternately, or in addition, you can ask for a written estimate before the locksmith begins the work. Any solid locksmith company should have no problem providing you with an accurate written estimate.
A legitimately professional locksmith company will only hire trained, experienced, bonded, and insured locksmith technicians to work for them. Since the quality of the locksmith’s work reflects back on the company and effects their reputation, a company that cares will have built a team of pros who they are proud to have onboard. They should also be willing to provide you with identification when they arrive. The name on their website should match all of the marketing material and logos on their vehicle, too. Shady companies may change their name multiple times in an attempt to dissociate themselves from poor-quality past work.
One widespread tactic that many people fear when dealing with a locksmith or other service provider is the hard sell. Many locksmith technicians, especially those from disreputable companies, will try to pressure you into services that you don’t need. It’s important not to fall for these strong-arm tactics. While mentioning services is one thing, if the technician is putting significant pressure on you, don’t be afraid to show them the door and choose another company. A professional locksmith company will not have to resort to these tactics in order to boost their sales.
Never pay in advance before the work is finished. Most companies will not ask you to do this, and it’s a serious red flag if the company you choose does. Know your rights and don’t allow the locksmith technician to talk you into prepaying. You want to make sure you’re satisfied with the work that is performed before you commit to paying full price.
If you’re not happy with your first choice, don’t hesitate to look for an alternative. Whether the company performs low-quality work, the technicians seem not to know what they’re doing, or the price shoots up significantly in person from what you were quoted over the phone, there are many potential reasons why the first company you choose is not the right one. Don’t be afraid to exercise your rights as a consumer and let go of that company. Luckily, there are many options for locksmith providers to choose from out there.
When it comes to your lock security, it’s imperative not to trust just anyone with maintaining it. Your locks are the crucial barrier between your property and those that may be looking to gain unlawful entry. Whether it’s installing locks, adding a high-tech security system, or assisting you in regaining access to your property during a lockout, the right locksmith can be an irreplaceable partner in your security.