You don’t think much about a locksmith until a situation arises. You simply insert the key in your door and you’re in! If you need to hire a locksmith or otherwise learn more about them, the following article is full of helpful tips and tricks to advise you.

Always get keys made by a locksmith that is close to your home. Sometimes keys are not calibrated correctly and they will not fit the lock in question. Going to someone too far means there will be a hassle if you have to take the keys back. Aim for a place that is a mile or two from where you live.

Do not let the locksmith begin work until he or she has given you an estimate. Rather than simply getting a verbal estimate, insist that the locksmith write the quote down on paper. This way, you have proof of the number that you were quoted. As long as you agree with the price, work can commence at that point.

If you are locked out of your car and you have AAA, call them and ask for a tow to a locksmith. Many times locksmiths charge you a bundle because they have to get to where you are. This is a great way to gain access to your vehicle for a lot less money.

To find a locksmith that performs quality work, always attempt to get recommendations from family and friends. Chances are, someone you know has locked themselves out of their car or their home. In addition, research any locksmith you are considering on the Better Business Bureau’s website to help ensure they are legitimate.

Do not be offended if a locksmith asks for your identification or questions you a little. He or she needs to make sure they are helping the person that actually owns the home or the vehicle. You would not want to work with anyone that did not ask questions to verify authenticity.

Make sure that once your locksmith is done that he hands you a receipt. While a lot of locksmiths can be trusted, there are people out there that try to scam other people. Get some proof that you paid for your services in full. Keep the receipt to ensure you have it available if a payment issue comes up later.

Always ask any locksmith you hire for identification when they arrive. Many states require that locksmiths are licensed. Even you are using a locksmith in a state where licensing is not required, you should be safe and ask for some sort of identification before you let them work on your home or car.

Look at a prospective locksmith’s credentials before allowing them in your home. Verify both their address and phone number. Thanks to the World Wide Web, it’s actually pretty simple to make sure you hire someone you can trust.

Before you trust locksmiths with your home’s key, call some current customers. Next, give some of the people on the list a call. This will show that a locksmith is both reliable and credible.


When first calling locksmiths, find out how long they been doing business. Also, you should be sure that they’ve been doing work at the same place for a while. A locksmith with more than a few years of experience would be a great choice.

Once you have hired a locksmith to come out and help you with home locks, ask them if they can give you a safety assessment. Most locksmiths do not mind walking around your property and letting you know what, if any, security measures need to be made to keep your home secure.

When searching for a reputable locksmith company, discuss any additional charges for the work you are having done. Some companies will charge significantly more for excessive mileage and emergency hours. They could also have a service call minimum where you may pay them over $50 for two minutes of work.

Choose a locksmith who provides a physical address for their shop. Locksmiths don’t just install locks or get you inside, they also sell locks, safes, key cutting services and more. If they have a storefront, you know where to go if you have any issues down the road, meaning they’re more trustworthy.

To ensure the locksmith you are considering isn’t a scammer, look their phone number up on an online directory. Check to see that the address on file for the number matches the one you see listed on their website or business card. If they don’t, don’t hire that locksmith!

When you call a locksmith, it is important to realize that they will know where you live. Do not hire them if you get suspicious. This is why it is important to meet them at their storefront before you give them your address.

Don’t sign any blank forms which authorize work being done! This just opens you up to being fleeced for all you are worth. If you receive an estimate, try to get it in writing. If they arrive and say that the job is going to cost significantly more, send them on their way.

Trade organizations are a great way to find local locksmiths you can consider. For example, the Associated Locksmiths of America will provide you with a list of locksmiths in your area. While they can’t all be guaranteed to be high quality, it gives you a list to start your research with.

Find out exactly which services are offered by the locksmith. Can they make car keys? Can they install a safe? If you know what they offer, you will also know if you have to find a different locksmith for services the first doesn’t have the skills to do, just in case.

The secret to being ready for life’s emergencies is being prepared. You shouldn’t have a problem finding a locksmith after reading this article. You will know what to do the next time you need a locksmith.