Most people prepare for things in life, but they do not consider what they will do when they need a locksmith. Waiting for an emergency is foolish. Read this article to learn the best ways for screening locksmiths, so you know exactly who you will call when help is needed.
When you paint your house, be sure to cover the locks prior to painting. Otherwise, you may get paint in the keyhole. It might take a while to cover each lock, but it will save time and expense because you won’t end up having to have the locks changed later.
If a locksmith provides you with a quote, and then increases the cost when he gets there, be wary. This is a common scam to extract more cash from you. You should get rid of them if a locksmith tells you it will be more expensive than the previously agreed price.
It is advisable to be prepared even if you never think you will need a locksmith’s service. Get on the computer and look around for a good locksmith in advance of any problems. Put the number in your phone and relax.
Avoid additional fees by using a locksmith during regular hours. After hours, you can expect locksmith costs to vary quite a bit. For example, if you’re locked out of a car the cost may be around $50; however, when it’s after hours it could cost you $100.
You should always check with the Better Business Bureau before hiring a locksmith. This will allow you to know if you’re dealing with someone who will scam you. You will also need to look at ALOA.org because that can help you figure out how trustworthy the locksmith is.
Find out if your locksmith is an active member of the locksmith community. While it’s not a necessity, knowing that your locksmith is up to date on current trends and technological developments can be very reassuring. You can also feel confident that he is not going to try to scam you or overcharge you.
Ask how long a locksmith has been in business. Make sure that they’ve also been operating from the same location. A business that has been in business for a number of years probably will be easy to work with.
Check that the locksmith is who they claim to be prior to allowing them entry to your home. This can be done asking to see their identification, locksmith license and business card. The Web helps you check people out and ensure they deserve your trust, so do it!
Ask your locksmith to bring ID. Mention this during your phone conversation, and let them know you expect proper identification to be presented when the contractor arrives. If the company is professional, they will have the right ID on them and be well presented.
You will benefit greatly by having a relationship established with a locksmith. It can save you both time and money. You should add the number of your favorite locksmith to your cell phone contacts so you always have it handy. Utilizing these suggestions is a great way to know that you have a locksmith you can trust.
