When it comes to choosing a locksmith in your area, there are many mistakes that you can make. This article will discuss the five most common mistakes and what you should do instead along with types of locksmiths and different services they offer.
Do you know that there is more than one type of locksmith?
In order to hire a locksmith, you need to know that there are two types of people who do this kind of work—locksmiths and key makers. To find which type someone is, look for their state license.
Locksmiths provide peace of mind for homeowners and businesses alike by coming out at any time of the day or night to fix lockouts, install new high-security locks, rekey existing locks, or replace door hardware on demand.
Key makers only make keys; they cannot help with anything else like repairs or installation. If you can’t tell which one someone is from their name (like “King Locks”), then ask them if they’re a locksmith or key maker before hiring them!
Types of Locksmith Services
In today’s world, there are a number of different types of locksmith services available. The most popular type is residential locksmith service, which includes installing and repairing locks on doors and windows in the home. These services also include the installation and repair of keyless entry systems for homes or businesses.
Other common types include automotive locksmith services, commercial lockouts, emergency exit devices, master keying systems for large buildings, safe opening/installation/repair, mailbox lock changes, and other minor related jobs such as rekeying door knobs or installing deadbolts.
In addition to these specialized areas of expertise, King Locksmith & Doors offers a wide variety of general security needs from simple fixes to complex installations. For instance, we can install sliding glass door locks, keyless entry systems, night latches, panic bars on doors, and all types of padlocks.
How to Choose the Right Locksmith?
Making mistakes when hiring a locksmith is easy if you don’t know how to select them properly. Here are some things that you should avoid doing:
1) You underestimate how important locksmiths are
Locksmiths provide peace of mind for homeowners and businesses alike by coming out at any time of the day or night to fix lockouts, install new high-security locks, rekey existing locks, or replace door hardware on demand.
2) You’re not clear on what services to expect
It is important to choose a locksmith that you can trust and who specializes in the type of work you need.
If you don’t know the specific type of locksmith services that you need, you might get taken advantage of; there are both good and bad locksmiths out there, and each one will offer a different price and service.
Therefore, before getting in contact with a locksmith company, be clear on what type of services you need—like new lock installation or locking yourself out of your home.
3) You forget to research the locksmiths in your area
The Internet allows you to check out a locksmith company before choosing them. There are several websites that show customer reviews, licenses, and insurance information, as well as the prices for all their services.
4) You choose a locksmith based on price alone
While locksmiths can certainly offer competitive pricing, you should also consider experience, availability, and the level of services offered. If you are planning to install new locks or have a key stuck in your car door, for example, choosing an inexperienced company will not be helpful.
5) You assume all locksmiths are the same
The best way to find a great locksmith is to ask for recommendations from people you know or ask your friends on social media. However, this doesn’t mean that everyone who offers their services is trustworthy. For example, there are fake companies that will take your money but not show up.
6) You don’t look at the company’s website before contacting them
The company’s website should have all the information that you need to know about them. If their website is outdated or doesn’t have important information, then they are not being professional enough to keep up with current trends.
Don’t be fooled by other people’s mistakes! To find a great locksmith in your area, do thorough research on the Internet. The websites are free to browse, so take advantage of them before choosing a company!
7) You don’t search for hidden fees
Be sure to find out what the service fee is—the cost for coming to your location and the labor costs to fix whatever problem you have. Also ask about additional fees including parts, mileage, and fuel charges.
8) You neglect to ask about what does not come standard with the service
Be sure to ask about a locksmith’s prices before you hire them. Some companies charge for things that should be included in the price of their service or, at the very least, should be discussed beforehand.
9) You don’t research a company’s customer reviews on Yelp
Yelp offers a wealth of information about which locksmiths customers have had good and bad experiences within your area. The site allows you to read reviews from customers who have recently used these services so that you can get an idea of which one is best for you.
10) You forget to check the company’s insurance policy
Many locksmith companies offer competitive rates and excellent services, but they may not be insured; this means that if something bad happens when the locksmith is on your property, you will be responsible for any damages.
11) You choose a locksmith based on how quickly they can come to your location
While it’s certainly great when someone comes quickly, you should also consider the quality of the service they provide. If you call a company that is further away but which has good reviews, for example, your problem will be solved faster.
12) You forget to check whether they are available 24/7
There are many people who lock themselves out; if you end up in this situation—or if someone else does—you want to find a locksmith that will come immediately and be able to help.
13) You forget that your credit card might not cover the entire amount you owe
If someone comes to your location and charges you an expensive fee, chances are good that you won’t have enough in your account; therefore, it’s best to call around to several different locksmiths instead of choosing one from a random spot.
14) You ignore the locksmith’s insurance coverage
The company’s insurance is a reflection of their level of professionalism and commitment to you, the customer. If they offer extended warranties or accident protection, then be sure to ask about it and read all the fine print (before signing). This will help you determine how much money to expect should a claim arise.
15) You choose a company based on a single impression
Trustworthy and professional locksmiths will offer you a personalized treatment, while uncertified ones might not. To really see whether the company cares about you as a customer, ask for their business card and follow up with them in a couple of days to see how they handled your inquiries.
16) You size a locksmith up solely on their price quote
While the price is important, it should not be the most important factor in your choice of which one to hire. As mentioned above, the company’s website should have all the information you need about their prices and services. Follow our advice and you will be able to hire the best locksmith for your needs.
At King Locksmiths and Doors, we are committed to providing first-class locksmith services at the most competitive prices available in the market.
Our focus is always on preventing crime, protecting property, and bringing security peace of mind into every home and business. Call us today! We are open 24/7 for your locksmith needs at (877) 285-0408.
