When dealing with an emergency like getting locked out of
your home, you simply don't have time to search for the best locksmith. While
I've used this argument for building a team of contractors so you're prepared
for emergencies, my list has never included a locksmith. After reading Top Tips
to Avoid Locksmith Scams, I knew it was important to share these tips on
finding a locksmith you can trust. That's because home security is a key
element of home safety,
PS Thought it was fun showing a door with an old fashion,
skeleton key lock.
Finding a Locksmith Tip #1: Timing
Your home is your castle and you want to protect it. A good
time to find a locksmith is right after you buy your home. Changing your locks
is the only way you know that others don't have keys to your home. You're
already researching other contractors for your home management team, so add a
locksmith to your list.
Alternatively, you might switch to one of the new smart
locks, that lets you track everyone entering your home. Before you buy your
smart lock, consider all the other smart products you'll be buying. You want
smart products that work together, or connect through a common Internet hub.
Finding a Locksmith Tip #2: Verify the Business
Once you've found a locksmith, research the business online.
Confirm they're using a local address (Google maps will show you what it looks
like). Check their online reviews. Call them outside normal working hours to
insure they've got phone coverage for emergencies.
When talking to the office, ask questions about their
process. How does their pricing work? Will they give you a rough estimates over
the phone? Are their locksmiths licensed? Will they give you the name of the
locksmith being sent to your home?
Finding a Locksmith Tip #3: Ask for Identification
When the locksmith arrives at your home, the most important
thing to do is check their identification. All licensed locksmiths have a
Master Security License Number. This number should be displayed on their vehicle
and their photo identity card. If they say they're licensed but don't have
their card, I'd suggest sending them on their way.
Finding a Locksmith Tip #4: Get a Written Estimate
After the locksmith has reviewed the situation, they should
be able to give you a written estimate. That's how my handyman business worked.
First we'd build a list of projects over the phone. Then we'd estimate how much
time everything would take, which allowed us to give a rough estimate. After
our handyman technicians reviewed the work, they'd confirm or adjust the
estimate.
Before you decide to replace your own door lock, consider
the cost of the tools and hardware, in addition to your time. Locksmith
estimates may include the following:
Service fees including transportation and additional charges
for emergency service outside normal business hours. My handyman business
charged a flat “trip fee” that covered our time to drive to/from the job site.
Hardware fees if a lock has to be replaced (lock and strike
plate) or re-keyed. According to Improvement.com “If a locksmith tells you the
locking mechanism needs to be replaced, you may want to get a second opinion.”
Make sure you have an opportunity to review, approve and
sign-off on the estimate before work starts. This will help avoid questions at
the end of the job.
Finding a Locksmith Tip #5: Pay via Credit Card
All legitimate businesses today take credit cards. It's the
safest way to pay because you're protected against fraud. Never pay cash as
there's no way to trace it, and no recourse. And with today's smart phones,
there are lots of devices like the “Square” that enable payments through the
phone (shown above).
Original Article Here: 5 Tips to Finding
a Locksmith You Can Trust
Related Article Here: How to Find a Good
Locksmith
Are you in doubt of other locksmith services around you? Looking
for a reliable and affordable locksmith service? Don’t hesitate to contact Locksmith Vinings GA and you will find your
satisfaction in their services!
