When it’s time to call a locksmith, you need to know that you’re getting in touch with a reputable locksmith that will take care of your needs with friendly, prompt service. Click here to learn how to avoid locksmith scams so you can always get the best service.
We all know that feeling. The feeling of dread you get when you can’t find your keys and your car is locked. There’s nothing worse than peering into your car window, just to see your keys sitting on the seat.
Then you start to panic as you run around the car trying every door, praying that one will miraculously open.
When it’s time to call a locksmith, you need to know that you’re getting in touch with a reputable locksmith that will take care of your needs with friendly, prompt service. Read on to find out how you can steer clear of locksmith scams.
1. Do Your Homework First
Before you have a locksmith come out, make sure they are a legitimate business first. They need to have a physical address and answer the phone with their company name.
Check the reviews. Online reviews are an easy way to gauge how good a business is.
See lots of one-star reviews? Look for a different locksmith to call.
Another hint that the locksmith is legitimate is they should ask you for identification so they can be sure they are unlocking a car or home that belongs to you. Be wary if they skip this step.
If you want to really be proactive, find a locksmith before you ever need one. Search for a reputable locksmith with good reviews, and save their number. This way, you’ll know exactly who to call when you need one, instead of trying to find one in a panic.
2. Watch the Bids
If the bid you received on the phone doesn’t match the on-site price, don’t allow the work to be done.
Ask questions about fees when you first call the locksmith. See if they charge extra for mileage and parts before you have them call out.
Locksmith scams often happen when they quote you a low price on the phone, only to upcharge you significantly once the work has been done.
If this happens you have a few choices: contact the main office, refuse to pay the higher fee, or call the police if you feel like you are being scammed.
Also, don’t believe any outlandish claims such as the need to shatter a window or break a door in order to get the lock undone. These are common tactics used by textbook scammers.
3. Make Sure Everything Checks Out
Don’t pay until you are happy with the job. Make sure there are no scratches on your car and your locks still work. You should be able to lock and unlock any door that was worked on.
Once you are happy with the job, the price is fair, and your locks work, pay with a credit card. Scammers usually only want cash. If you pay with a credit card, you can contest the charges if you need to.
Beware of Locksmith Scams
If you do find yourself in the middle of a locksmith scam, don’t say silent. Contact the Better Business Bureau and leave reviews online. This will warn others to stay away from certain locksmiths.
And if you feel the need, you can always file a police report.
While we’re on the topic, why don’t you save yourself the trouble and check us out. We’ve been around for over 40 years and offer 24-hour service. So stop panicking and feel free to give us a call today!
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