Whether you’re locked out of your home, car, or need a new set of locks fitted, there’s need to choose a reliable locksmith. We suggest finding a competent locksmith before you even need one. Locksmiths usually undergo some apprenticeship or formal education with a certification from an engineering college. Locksmiths can be mobile or have a physical store. Asides locks, many locksmiths work on other existing door hardware, including keys, door hinges, and frame repairs.

Tips for Choosing a Reliable Locksmith:

Get Recommendations

Contact your friends, neighbors, or family members to recommend reputable locksmiths in your area to you. Make sure to verify the physical address of any locksmith to be sure they’re really local. For a listing of accredited locksmiths, check reputable sources for reviews from previous clients.

Check for Accreditation

ALOA (Associated Locksmiths of America) is an international organization of professional locksmiths who vet all registered locksmiths. There’s an application process, a background check, and association dues involved in order to join. This is to keep the bad eggs away. Log on to aloa.org to be sure a locksmith is registered before you hire one.

Call the Business

Be careful if they answer the phone with a general expression such as “locksmith services.”  Ask what their legal business name is and if they hesitate to tell you, look elsewhere for a more reliable locksmith.

Request for an Estimate

Ensure you get an estimate before the locksmith comes to your home or car. This estimate should include labor cost and the lock parts replacement if required. Reliable locksmiths will give an estimate over the phone including additional fees if any. Ensure there are no hidden charges and be careful not to sign a blank document to authorize work until all gray areas are clear. If the locksmith mentions a greater price than earlier discussed on the phone when he arrives, do not allow them to begin work.

Examine Their Credentials

Please ensure that the locksmith you’re hiring is insured, so you can be covered if need be especially if the repair leads to damages. On arrival of the locksmith, request for an ID and business card. Check if the logo and business name on the business card matches those on the invoice and business vehicle. A professional locksmith may also request to see your identification to ensure it is indeed your property they’re doing work on.

Save the Locksmith’s Information

After the locksmith has completed his job on your property, make an itemized invoice including labor, parts, mileage, and other accessory fees and save this invoice for future references. Keep the locksmith’s business info if you enjoyed their services and you believe you’ve found a trusted locksmith, in case you need their services in the future.