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Find one before you need one. The FTC advises researching a locksmith before an emergency, the way you would a plumber or electrician, and saving the number in your phone (FTC). Check that the business has a real name and a local address, and when you call, get an estimate for all work and parts before any work begins, then confirm it when the locksmith arrives (Wisconsin consumer protection). Here are tips on How To Find A Locksmith Near Me:
TIP #1 – ASK AROUND
If there’s ever an emergency, don’t hesitate to ask your friends and family members who they use when they have problems with their locks. More likely than not, someone among them has needed a locksmith at some point or another. Trustworthy ones tend to be popular because of good service.
TIP #2 – CHECK ONLINE
You can easily find a locksmith in your area by checking online. There are many websites and forums where people discuss their experiences with different locksmiths, and it’s best to look for these when you need quick access to a reputable local service. Make sure the comments and ratings come from real customers who aren’t related in any way to the locksmith they’re reviewing.
TIP #3 – CHECK LICENSING AND INSURANCE
A lot of companies offer lock services, but not all of them are insured. Ask whether the locksmith is insured and the name of the insurer (Wisconsin DATCP). Some states and cities also license locksmiths; where a license is required, ask for the license number.
TIP #4 – LOOK FOR A WARRANTY OF THEIR WORKMANSHIP
Even if a locksmith is reliable, there’s no guarantee that they’ll still be in business by the time you need service again. That’s where warranties on their workmanship come into play. Ask what the warranty covers and for how long, and get it in writing. At Diamondback, it is: “One month full warranty, and after that, a year warranty through the manufacturer, just for the parts.”
TIP #5 – DON’T PAY BEFORE THE WORK IS DONE
Don’t pay for service in advance, and ask for an itemized invoice that covers parts, labor, mileage and the service call. Be cautious if you are told up front that the lock has to be drilled and replaced, because an experienced locksmith can open most doors without that (Wisconsin DATCP). At Diamondback, payment is taken after the work is done and tested, by cash, major card or business check (no personal checks).
TIP #6 – VERIFY THEIR SERVICES BEFORE HIRING THEM
A very low advertised price may sound attractive, but be wary of multiple discounts, emergency-service promotions and claims of the lowest prices (Wisconsin DATCP), because the final bill can end up much higher than the quote. Instead of looking for someone with a low price, find someone specializing in the specific services you need.
TIP #7 – GET A QUOTE IN WRITING
Before you hire a locksmith, ask for a quote in writing with a list of all the work they intend to do. If their estimates are vague or don’t mention any dates or costs, look elsewhere because these could indicate they’re trying to make it difficult for you to hold them accountable if something goes wrong later on. The more detailed and transparent your service provider is, the easier it’ll be for you to make an informed decision about working with them.
TIP #8 – ASK FOR A WARRANTY ON THEIR WORK
If possible, ask your locksmith what warranty covers their workmanship and materials, and get it in writing.
TIP #9 – DON’T BE AFRAID TO SHOP AROUND FOR A BETTER PRICE
If you come across a locksmith who’s offering lower rates than their competitors, it doesn’t necessarily mean that they offer inferior services. All companies have different prices depending on the area where they’re located and what kind of competition they face. If you’re not in a hurry, shop around for at least three quotes. Once you’ve done this, compare them side-by-side so it’ll be easier for you to make an informed decision about which one will work best for your needs.
TIP #10 – DON’T LET THEM ADD WORK WITHOUT YOUR PERMISSION
Before you hire someone, make sure they aren’t trying to sell you other services you didn’t agree on. A reputable locksmith gives you a revised price and waits for your OK before doing any extra work. This is a common tactic for scam artists who take money upfront and don’t return when promised. If this happens to you, keep your agreement documentation, pay only after completion, and contact authorities if necessary. Consult with friends or family members before making any decisions so that you can hear advice from people who’ve had similar experiences in the past. That way, it’ll be easier for you to work out what kind of locksmiths are worth doing business with.
Finding a locksmith is easier than ever. Compare prices, and where your state or city licenses locksmiths, check the license before choosing one. You can find them on Google or through customer reviews on Yelp. If you are in the Valley, call Diamondback Lock and Key at (602) 388-1201. Emergency callouts run 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Looking specifically for a car locksmith? See How Do I Find a Car Locksmith Near Me.
Sources
- FTC urges consumers to use caution when seeking a locksmith (2008) (Federal Trade Commission)
- Hiring a Locksmith (Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection)