Finding the Best Residential Locksmith—Essential Tips
Choosing the right locksmith for residential security is perhaps one of the most important decisions you can make. After all, the safety of your family depends on how good of a job your locksmith does!
With property crimes costing US residents $14.3 billion in 2015, the need to ensure your residence is secured is higher than ever.
As you stand locked out of your front door after coming home from a long day at work, regretting the time when you didn’t put enough thought into choosing the right locksmith, let us tell you how you can avoid the situation in future.
1. It’s All About the Name
First things first, check the name of the company. Generic names are the first indication that you’re one step closer to getting swindled. Someone referring to themselves as ‘locksmiths’ or ‘locksmith services’ is the foremost reason why you shouldn’t trust a locksmith company with your doors.
Every legitimate company has a registered name, containing their location or an original name. If your locksmith fails to provide you with one, it’s best to drop them altogether.
2. Word of Mouth
Word travels fast and most of the time, it’s true! So before hiring a locksmith, make sure to talk to people who have previously hired their services and ask for recommendations. If anyone can give you the right advice about a locksmith, it’s past clients! Confirm their address from people to make sure they’re local.
3. Look for a Licensed Locksmith
Better safe than sorry! Checking your locksmith’s license is one way to avoid a fraudulent locksmith. Locksmiths are required to undergo a background check in order to obtain a license. In order to avoid swindles, always ask to see their ID before you let them commence work.
4. Request an Early Estimate
Before your locksmith gets started on your residential project, always ask for an estimate that includes service charges, cost of repair parts, and any additional charges. If a locksmith is charging exorbitant prices for a minor repair, it’s your cue to move on. Don’t allow them to begin working on the project and never sign any document without giving it a proper read.
Some of the trademarks of fraudulent locksmiths include:
- Giving a low estimate initially and then charging extra by citing hidden costs and added expenses.
- Claiming that your lock is beyond repair and then replacing it with an expensive lock.
It’s advisable to get an estimate from a few locksmiths before choosing one to avoid getting scammed.
Finding a reliable locksmith can be challenging. But New York Locksmiths Networks has you covered! Serving residential, commercial, industrial, and automotive clients for over 22 years, we’re home to the most experienced locksmiths in New York.
We know that real emergencies can’t wait, which is why we provide 24 hour locksmith near me services to help you during any time of the day.
We’re a licensed and bonded company, providing affordable pricing for all our services. Rest assured, your door is in safe hands!
Contact us today for a quote!