Bob's Safety Tips: How To Choose a Locksmith

It's normally not a question of if you will need a locksmith service
...it's when.

It's unfortunate, but there are a number of questionable or fly-by-night "locksmith" operations more interested in compromising your security than protecting it. Don't be ripped off at a time when you are most vulnerable. Know the locksmith in your area you would use and if out of the area, ask them these important questions prior to hiring them:

1. Are you insured and bonded?
   Ensuring your potential service provider has the appropriate insurance protection is important to the safety and reassurance of all parties.
2. Is your work guaranteed?
   Like any good business, a good locksmith should offer some sort of guarantee on his work.
3. Are you registered with the State Attorney General's Office?
   Locksmith business are considered "home improvement contractors" by many states, and are often required to register for a contractor's license. In those cases, the license number should be prominently displayed on all contracts and advertisements (including their web site or even their work truck).
4. What kind of payments do you accept?

Any legitimate locksmith should gladly answer these questions without hesitation. If you find your prospective service provider doesn't want to provide you the right information, look elsewhere.

Go with your gut. If you have a bad feeling or sense you might be getting the run around, try someone else. It's not worth risking your safety or at the very least your wallet on a bad deal.

Once you find a locksmith you're comfortable working with, there's one more question to ask once he arrives to deliver service:

Could you please give me a maximum price prior to starting work?

You may ask this before you even schedule service, but not all jobs can be given a price prior to starting due to unforeseen issues. If the locksmith gives you a quote upon arrival, and you're not satisfied with the price, you may refuse the job but may still owe him/her a trip charge.

Choosing a Locksmith: The Takeaway

Start by asking for recommendations from people you know and trust. If not, make sure to follow up with any prospective service provider with the questions above. This should put you on the right track to finding the right locksmith you can trust with your safety from here and into the future.