After confirming the signs that you need a locksmith, the next task is to locate a reputable locksmith in your area. Choosing the right company is key, whether it’s lock maintenance, repair, or an emergency lockout. Hiring a locksmith is a security matter for your home or business.
You want to ensure they are knowledgeable and skilled and deliver quality service. Unfortunately, many unqualified locksmiths exist and commonly run scams that confuse customers. You can find ads online for locksmith companies that 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.
Key Takeaways
1. Choosing a legitimate locksmith involves identifying your needs, considering insurance coverage, searching for useful reviews, requesting documentation, and undergoing proper payment channels.
2. Selecting a reputable locksmith is critical to ensure the security and effectiveness of their job.
3. Great Valley Lockshop specializes in residential, commercial, and automotive locksmith services.
Steps in Choosing the Right Locksmith Company
Choosing the right locksmith company is crucial for ensuring the security and safety of your property. Whether you’re locked out of your home, need to upgrade your business’s security system, or require assistance with your car locks, selecting a reliable and professional locksmith is essential.
With numerous options available, it can be challenging to determine which company to trust. This section outlines a step-by-step guide to help you choose a locksmith company, ensuring you make an informed decision and receive top-notch service.
1. Identify Your Specific Needs
The first thing to do is to decide exactly what service you need. When contacting a locksmith, you want to be sure that they can provide 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. Identify the Right Type of Locksmith You Need
Next, get a list of local lock professionals from an online search or a local directory. Identify which specialization you need. There are different types of locksmith companies. Some specialize in commercial, residential, or automotive services.
Find out each provider’s services and narrow your choices to a few nearby. Call or visit their websites to see which companies offer the particular locksmith services you need.
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. Consider Locksmiths Covered by Your Insurance
Your homeowner’s insurance, business insurance policy, or automobile association membership may cover repairing or installing locks or lockout services. If they aren’t covered, they may have a list of providers that charge a discounted rate for members.
If you have insurance or are a member of an association like AAA, ensure that the company you choose is covered. Sometimes, pre-authorization is needed to qualify for coverage. Check with your insurance carrier or membership association for the necessary steps.
4. Request for a Quotation of Cost of Services
Some locksmith companies provide free quotation and consultation services. You can always inquire about these steps, which are critical for proper diagnosis.
If you have a membership that offers coverage or discounts, ensure 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. Request to See Credentials and Review Customer Feedback
A locksmith company’s services are often reflected by the number of positive reviews it gets. Scan through the available customer reviews to get an idea of how it operates.
Pennsylvania does not require locksmiths to have a valid license to do business. Yet, if they have a license, it can give you more peace of mind. For example, professional locksmiths certified by the ALOA have verified professional knowledge and skills. Locksmith licenses in most states require professional certification and a clean criminal background.
You should also request to see the locksmith’s business card. Make sure that the name of the company matches that on the estimate. This type of documentation ensures clients that they are legitimate service providers.
Before a hired locksmith begins performing any service, ask to see his or her credentials. If they have professional certifications, they should be glad you asked and happy to show you.
6. Pay Attention to the Documentation
When the prospective locksmith shows up to do the repairs or services needed, ask to confirm the already provided estimate. Don’t pay for the service or get out your credit card until you agree to the quoted work.
The locksmith may ask to see your ID and fill out an authorization form. Don’t worry; this is a 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 includes the following information:
- Name,
- Address,
- Phone number,
- ID number,
- Locksmith services requested, and
- Signature.
Proper documentation must also include the services the locksmith will provide. Contracts and other written agreements can help you settle potential disputes, such as in back jobs.
7. Get an Invoice for the Locksmith Services
When the work is done, ensure you get a copy of the invoice with the final cost of services. The invoice should list any replacement locks, locksmith labor time, and special emergency service pricing. You may need to submit this itemized document to your insurance company or membership association.
Tips to Find a Locksmith in Your Area
Locating a trustworthy locksmith in your area is essential for ensuring the security and safety of your property. This aspect not only guarantees quality service but also protects you from potential scams and subpar workmanship.
Following these practical tips, you can locate reputable local locksmiths who provide professional and dependable services, giving you peace of mind in emergencies and routine situations.
- Ask for Recommendations. Seek referrals from friends, family, or local businesses for reliable locksmith services.
- Use Online Resources. Utilize search engines and review websites like Google and Yelp to find and evaluate local locksmiths.
- Check Professional Associations. Look for locksmiths affiliated with professional organizations such as the ALOA for added credibility.
- Verify Credentials. Ensure the locksmith is licensed, certified, insured, and bonded to guarantee professionalism and protection.
- Visit Their Website. Review the locksmith’s website for comprehensive information on services, history, and contact details.
- Check Local Directories. Use local directories and contact your Chamber of Commerce to find reputable locksmiths in your area.
- Evaluate Their Availability. Confirm the locksmith offers 24/7 emergency services and inquire about their average response time.
- Request Estimates. Obtain and compare detailed quotes from multiple locksmiths to ensure fair and transparent pricing.
- Read Customer Feedback. Read online reviews and testimonials to gauge the locksmith’s reliability and customer satisfaction.
- Visit Their Location. If possible, visit the locksmith’s physical address to verify their legitimacy and professionalism.
What to Avoid When Hiring a Locksmith?
Finding a reliable locksmith for your needs can be tricky sometimes. Some locksmith companies do not perform well and offer sketchy services. As an inexperienced customer, it may be easy to be led on by unprofessional locksmiths.
Equip yourself with the right knowledge to spot red flags and avoid locksmith scams.
Here are some signs that a locksmith might not be a reputable professional.
- Prices that are too good to be true. Often, the price you end up paying is much higher.
- There is no specified address for the business.
- There is no specified service area, and the service range is very large. This is often a sign that you are contacting a middleman, which will add extra fees to the locksmith’s service charge.
- Lack of professional certifications, including ALOA certification.
- No estimate is provided for repair work.
- Bad online reviews.
Learn the Best Ways to Avoid a Locksmith Scam.
Your Best and Reliable Local Locksmith – Great Valley Lockshop
As Pennsylvania’s trusted locksmith, Great Valley Lockshop goes above and beyond to ensure your security needs are met with precision and reliability. Our extensive range of services spans residential, commercial, construction, and mobile locksmith solutions, providing comprehensive coverage for all your security requirements.
At Great Valley Lockshop, we take pride in our commitment to professionalism and expertise. Our team of licensed technicians undergoes rigorous training and stays up-to-date with the latest industry standards to deliver unparalleled service. Additionally, our accreditation with the Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA) underscores our dedication to maintaining the highest levels of skill and integrity in our work.
Whether you’re locked out of your home or car or seeking advanced security solutions for your business, Great Valley Lockshop can provide prompt, reliable assistance. Contact us today to experience the trusted service and expertise that sets Great Valley Lockshop apart.
