Tips to Identify a Trustworthy Locksmith

Locksmiths are well-trained professionals who deal with locks and keys. Locksmiths can duplicate keys, break a lock and replace your keys. Thus, should you have any issues with your locks or keys, you should reach out to a professional locksmith.

The guide below outlines the tips you should follow when you want to identify the best locksmith.

Research and Ask for Recommendations

Instead of waiting until the time you lose your keys, or you need your locks replaced, take charge to find one locksmith you can rely on in advance. Research online on sites like Google to find locksmiths near you. Read their reviews and see whether their services satisfied their previous clients.

You can also ask your friends and family members to give referrals of the best locksmiths if they know of any. Once you get a few names from the internet or referrals, you can get more information about the locksmiths on findalocksmith.com, made available by Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA).

Know the Services You Need 

Before reaching out to a locksmith, identify the service you need from them. Having an idea of the service you want will save you and the locksmith time and give the technician adequate time to prepare before visiting you. Some of the services that you may require are:

• Lock replacement or repair
• Key duplication
• Installation of new mechanical or electrical locks
• Replacing keyless control systems.

Ask for a Cost Estimate

Request different locksmiths to give you the cost estimate of the services you want in advance, then compare their prices. If a locksmith charges more and has good reviews, you should consider getting their services since they could be satisfactory.

Check the Locksmith’s Certifications

In most states, locksmiths require certification and no criminal record for them to have licenses to work as locksmiths. Therefore, ask the locksmith to show you their licenses before they start working on your premise. Also, check out whether the locksmith has ALOA certification. ALOA certification shows that the locksmith has the necessary professional knowledge and skills to execute locksmith work.

Be sure to also check the car the locksmith is driving and their business card. Professional locksmiths often move around in a company vehicle with a logo similar to the logo on their business cards. Matching logos imply that the locksmith company is genuine.

Wait for the Locksmith to Ask for Your Identification

Before a locksmith starts any work at your property, they should ask you to identify yourself. You should identify yourself by providing your Identity Card (ID). The identification is for purposes of ensuring the locksmith met with the correct property owner.

The locksmith may require you to fill out an authorization form that shows you are giving the locksmiths permission to perform the duties that brought them to your home. The authorization form contains information such as:

• Your name
• Your ID number
• Your residence address
• Your contact details
• You requested services
• Your signature

Ask for an Invoice

After the locksmith finishes fixing the locks on your property, ask them to give you a written invoice. The invoice should contain the prices for all items purchased, the labor cost, and any other costs you paid for their service. If you have insurance for the property the locksmith worked on, you can present the invoice to your insurance company and you may get compensation for your incurred costs.

Hiring the right locksmith requires you to be thorough and keen to get your work done well. With a little advance work, you can have the assurance that your locks and keys are with a trustworthy locksmith — so your valuables are safe. Contact us today to hire the best locksmiths.