How to Find the Best Professional
Locksmith
Finding the
right professional locksmith for your needs will require a keen eye on
detail. Though there’s no perfect way in finding a locksmith, these tips will
protect you against all forms of locksmith scams.
Locksmiths are professionally trained individuals who
offer valuable customer service to the absent minded and those that frequently
lose their keys. Locksmiths have the equipment and dexterity to be able to open
doors and various items secured by locks when you have locked yourself out or
have misplaced keys. Locksmiths can create a new set of keys on the spot, if
needed. Finding the right professional locksmith for your needs will
require a keen eye on detail. Though there’s no perfect way in finding a locksmith,
these tips will protect you against all forms of locksmith scams. Here’s how to
find out if a particular professional locksmith is reputable and honest.
Steps
1
Be sure to have an extra set of keys made. Most dry
cleaners and luggage or shoe repair shops have key making as an added service.
2
Place an extra set of keys in a hidden spot outside of
your home or better yet entrust them with a family member or a close friend.
Asking them to come over instead of a professional locksmith will be a lot
cheaper and easier. However, if the idea of having spare keys is not an option,
you have no other choice but to contact a locksmith. Always pick someone that
is from around your neighborhood. But be wary of locksmiths posing as local.
Untrained scammers are only there for your money.
3
Make some necessary advance research using the yellow
pages of your phonebook and the Internet on several locksmiths before you
actually need one. You may check the 'Find a Locksmith' database on the Master
Locksmith Association (MLA) website for details of locksmiths near your
location. Or make use of search engines and apply location-specific keywords
such as “locksmith se16,” “locksmith Kentish Town,” “locksmith
Kilburn,” or “locksmith Golders Green.” Write down a couple of
locksmiths with their names, addresses and contact numbers. If you’re in need
of emergency assistance for your car, contact roadside assistance first. They
probably have made good past dealings with a highly skilled locksmith. You may
also ask a Gas Station for assistance, if there’s any nearby.
4
Before the locksmith begins the work, inquire about any
additional fees. Ask the locksmith for a written estimate of all work and
replacement parts before you agree to have the locksmith begin work. Note that
some locksmiths may charge extra fees for responding to your call in the middle
of the night or for responding immediately. Be sure to inquire if there is a
mileage charge or a minimum fee.
5
Always go for an insured or bonded locksmith because if
your property is damaged during repair or due to poor locksmithing which then
causes damage or loss, the insurance would cover these unfortunate losses.
