Unfortunately, there are a lot of unqualified locksmiths out there and commonly run scams which confuse customers. You can find ads online for locksmith companies which seem to be local. In reality, a dispatch center far away sends an unlicensed technician who insists that the service needed costs more than the estimate. Then, they require a cash payment for shoddy work. It’s a trap which many home and business owners have fallen into.
So, how can you choose the best individual for the job? Here’s how to find a reliable locksmith:
1. Be Clear About the Locksmith Services You Need
The first thing to do is to decide exactly what service you need. You want to be sure, when contacting a locksmith, that they are able to perform the right types of services. Common requests involve:
- Installing mechanical or electronic locks at residential and commercial properties,
- Rekeying or changing the locks,
- Repairing locks,
- Making copies or duplicate keys,
- Replacing electronic access cards and key fobs,
- Supplying, installing or servicing high-security, commercial locks and doors,
- Fixing components of a keyless, biometric or access control system,
- Responding to emergency calls in case of accidental lockouts or broken locks.
2. Find Out Who Can Provide the Service
Next, get a list of local lock professionals from an online search or a local directory. Find out what services are offered by each provider and narrow your choices down to a few nearby. Call or visit their websites to see which companies offer the particular locksmith services you need. Some companies specialize in either residential, commercial or emergency calls.
If the service you need isn’t urgent, find out which locksmith companies can schedule someone to come at a time that works for you.
3. Ask Which Locksmith Providers Are Covered
Your homeowner’s insurance, business insurance policy, or automobile association membership may cover the cost of repairing, or installing locks, or for lockout services. If they aren’t covered, they may have a list of providers which charge a discounted rate for members.
4. Get an Estimate for the Cost of Services
Then, you should find out how much you will need to pay for the service. If you do have a membership that offers coverage or discounts, make sure that the locksmith’s written estimate reflects that. Confirm that the estimate includes all of the related fees and charges. Remember to ask for a written copy of the quotes requested.
5. Pay Attention to the Documentation
Finally, when the locksmith shows up to do the repairs or services needed, ask to confirm the estimate that was already provided. Don’t pay for the service or get out your credit card until you have agreed to the work quoted.
The locksmith may ask to see your ID and fill out an authorization form. Don’t worry, this is the sign of a reliable professional. They should ask for identification and other information to confirm that you are actually the property or car owner before starting the job.
The typical authorization form, asks for your:
- Name,
- Address,
- Phone number,
- ID number,
- Locksmith services requested, and
- Signature.
This is standard procedure. Though you should read the fine print just to know what you’re agreeing to.
Just like our name, we are a Leading Locksmith company in Kansas City and the surroundings, started in 2017. We are locally owned and operated, currently, on our team, several professional contractors available spread to serve each area of Kansas City. We have been the first choice for many local residents and businesses at times of need.
