Did you just move into a new home and you thought it would be best for your safety to get your locks replaced? What if you live alone and you got locked in or out of your own property? Cars are not out of the question, sometimes you get distracted and lose your keys.
It happens to the best of us, which is why it is important to remember that there are locksmiths who know just how to help you out.
However, not all of them can be trusted. Here are 10 steps you must take before hiring a professional locksmith. Find out how you can avoid unnecessary fees, damaged items, inefficient service, and other unpleasant surprises.
1. Look for a well-known business.
Locksmith businesses are well-known for a reason. Although in some cases, they might charge for more, you can guarantee that the service they provide has already been tried and tested by many. When businesses are well known, the easier they are to look up online or locals may be able to tell you more about them compared to places that are not. If you have time, look up your local locksmiths and check which one looks the most worth it in your opinion. Here in What’s the Damage’s Directory, we have listed businesses for each lock-related service you might need.
2. Ask locals for recommendations.
Even if it is indeed convenient to do your own research online, word by mouth has its own benefits as well. Your friends, family, and neighbours have recommendations and it is important to hear them out, learn about their experience, and determine if you want to try it out as well.
3. Check for licenses and certificates.
Any company and business must have legitimate documents that prove their authenticity. If you want to see if a place is legitimate, ask for their license and certificates that will tell you the time and effort they have put into the craft. When made to sign documents, it is only natural you have access to their legality in case you encounter any problem.
4. Make sure they are experienced in the industry.
Knowledge and skill grow through many years of experience. Make sure that the locksmith you hired has studied and worked long enough in the field, to lessen the risks of a failed service. You’ll feel at ease knowing the locksmith you sought help in has already experienced and fixed the problem you currently have
5. Guarantee product warranty.
Fixing locks is not the only job a locksmith has. They can install new locks, cut new keys, and install security systems too. When they get you a new product for your security, there should be a warranty in case something goes wrong to prevent you from getting unnecessarily stressed. When handing you a warranty, the locksmith might ask to see your ID and have you sign an approval form. This is the right procedure, you do not need to fret.
6. Ask for your locksmith’s identification.
Anyone handling your security should be documented and taken note of. You may take a photo of the license plate of the vehicle they came with, as well as their ID when you ask for it. Should there be any issues in the future, you may contact the business directly and have the information of the locksmith handy.
7. Request a written estimate.
Any reputable locksmith business is willing to send you an estimated cost for your service even before you ask for it. Sneaky locksmiths may get away with charging you extra if you do not know what exactly you should be paying beforehand.
8. Check their online reviews.
Looking through what previous customers think of the service they have received is important information. You can gauge if they’re good or not based on their ratings and some reviews will let you know if there are things you have to take note of in every business. Here in What’s the Damage, we mention the ratings and reviews of every listed business to help you when checking them out.
9. Check their rates and charging policy.
Before getting into any service, ask for their rates and charging policy, and compare it to online reviews or local opinions. That way you can avoid unnecessary costs and cheating.
10. Follow the payment procedure.
Pay accordingly and ask for a receipt. The closer you follow their payment procedure, the easier it will be for you to avoid any liability in case a problem is encountered.
