Locksmiths are trained professionals who use their skills to change, repair and create locks and keys. They have been around for centuries and their trade has always been an essential one. Today, they continue to play an important role in keeping our homes, businesses and vehicles safe.
Locksmiths are highly skilled artisans who can create custom-made locks and keys. Their abilities include being able to open locked doors without damaging them, as well as to secure screen door locks. They are familiar with a wide variety of locking mechanisms and can often provide advice on the best type of lock to use for specific needs.
Locksmiths are an important part of our security team and play a vital role in keeping us safe. However, it is also essential to ensure that you are hiring the right locksmith.
8 Tips to Avoid Locksmith Fraud
1. Do Your Research
Not all locksmiths are created equal. Some are honest, hardworking individuals while others are nothing more than scammers out to take advantage of unsuspecting consumers. That’s why it’s important to do your homework before you hire a locksmith.
Checking online reviews is a great way to get an idea of what other people have experienced with a particular locksmith, and you can also ask for recommendations from friends or family members. Once you find a few potential locksmiths, be sure to ask about their experience, credentials, and pricing before making your final decision.
2. Ask for Proof of Insurance
One of the best ways to avoid locksmith fraud is to make sure that the locksmith is insured. The insurance certificate of any reputable locksmith should be available to you upon request. This will protect you in case of any damage that may occur during the locksmithing process.
Without insurance, you could be held liable for any damage that occurs, which could end up costing you a lot of money. You should always ask for proof of insurance before hiring a locksmith. This simple step could save you a lot of time, money, and headaches in the long run.
3. Ask for a List of References
When you need the services of a locksmith, it’s important to choose a reputable company that can be trusted to do a good job. A reputable locksmith should have no problem providing you with references from past clients who were happy with the work that was done. Be sure to contact some of the references to get their opinions about the locksmith’s work.
4. Make Sure the Locksmith is Licensed
In most states, locksmiths are required to be licensed in order to operate legally. This licensing process helps to ensure that locksmiths have the knowledge and skills necessary to do their job safely and effectively.
It also helps to avoid fraud by making it more difficult for someone to pose as a locksmith when they are not. If you find yourself in need of a locksmith, be sure to ask for their license number so that you can verify that they are legitimate.
5. Get Everything in Writing
As anyone who has ever been locked out of their home or car can tell you, locksmiths can be a lifesaver. However, there is always the potential for fraud when dealing with locksmiths.
To avoid getting overcharged, it is important to get a written estimate before work begins. This way, you will know exactly how much the job will cost and you can avoid being taken advantage of. While most locksmiths are honest and trustworthy, it is always better to be safe than sorry.
6. Avoid “Too Good to be True” Offers
There are a few things to watch out for that can indicate a locksmith is trying to scam you. Be wary of any locksmith who gives you an estimate over the phone without seeing the job first. This is often a tactic used by unscrupulous locksmiths to get your business.
They will lowball you on the price, and then once they get to your home or office, they will find all sorts of hidden fees that inflate the price significantly. Avoid locksmiths who try to upsell you on services or products you don’t need.
For example, if a locksmith tells you that you need to replace your entire lock system when all you needed was a simple key duplication, this is a huge red flag. If you encounter any of these warning signs, it’s best to avoid that locksmith and find someone else to do the job.
7. Avoid Locksmiths with No Proper ID
Locksmith fraud is a serious problem and it’s one that you need to be aware of if you’re ever in the market for locksmith services. Be wary of locksmiths who show up in an unmarked vehicle or who can’t produce proper identification when you ask for it.
If a locksmith can’t produce identification, ask to see their license. If they don’t have a license, it’s best to avoid using their services.
8. Never Give Your Credit Card Information
Never give a locksmith your credit card information over the phone. If they insist on this, hang up and call someone else. Locksmith fraud is a very common scam, especially if you are in an emergency situation and need to have a locksmith come to your aid right away.
The scammer will often quote a low price over the phone but once they arrive, they will say that the job is much more complicated than they thought and will charge you an exorbitant price for the work. In some cases, they may even damage your lock so that it needs to be replaced, costing you even more money.
Contact Allcoast Locksmiths for a trustworthy service!
