Monday, October 12, 2009

Trustworthy Locksmith



It's bound to happen sooner or later, but none of us think about it until it's too late. How do I find a locksmith?

You're locked out of your home, your car, maybe even both. You're late to work. So what do you do? You call the first available locksmith to the rescue. The question you may not consider until after you get the bill is: how do you know you're getting trustworthy locksmith, someone who won't rip you off in your moment of desperation? You need the locks on your house changed. Do you want to trust your security to just anyone? The Locksmith who’s re-keying your house how do you know he’s not doing something funny to your locks. So find a locksmith now. Use the information here to help you find a locksmith that you can trust.

Most locksmiths are honest and hard-working. Unfortunately, not every locksmith you run into is going to be that trustworthy locksmith. Almost anyone can put an ad online or in the phone book and claim to be legitimate or are they fly by night company. With all the stuff you hear on the news your probably wondering how do I find a locksmith that is honest and can be trusted.

When you need a trustworthy locksmith you’re going to want to know you’re choosing someone who’s honest and will be fair with you. The good news is that you can take steps to make sure that you’re finding a locksmith who’ll charge fair rates and be honest. Below we have listed a some pointers on how to find a trustworthy locksmith.

So keep this information in mind that will save you and your wallet when that dreaded day comes and help give you peace of mind.

Don’t rely solely on the Internet or a Yellow Pages advertisement to find a locksmith. While there are plenty of good locksmiths with web pages and in the yellow pages, you should remember that anyone can start a page or get a phone number. They may not have the training and facilities you’re looking for. They may not have insurance or a license. Does the listing on the web page or in the phone book give you basic information? Can you locate where they are or are they just a phone number? Do they state they have a license? Do they have locations all over the USA? When clicking around there website does it give you the same 1-800 number to call? If it’s local why do I need a 1-800 number? Make you wonder who you’re really talking to and who’s going to show up. You want to find a locksmith who is local and has a reputation that they stand behind. So if you call these numbers ask them where they are located. If they can't tell you an exact address than find a locksmith who will. Also look up those locations to make sure they do exist. Taking the time now to find a locksmith could save you a headache later.

Below are a few links to show you what can happen if you just pick a locksmith at random. Look at the bottom of this blog for Youtube videos with more info on what could happen.

http://www.klas-tv.com/Global/story.asp?S=10927916

Check with better business bureau. The BBB will list how long a given locksmith has been in business, whether or not they have had complaints lodged against the business, and lots of other facts about your prospective locksmith. If you see a lot of complaints or a locksmith that hasn’t been in business long, you may wish to ask more questions. Unresolved complaints are a real worry.

Check for bonding. All locksmiths should be bonded. This means that they have passed a criminal and background check and been fingerprinted. These are security measures that keep criminals from posing as legitimate locksmiths. Check your County or city web site to see what locksmiths in your area are required to have. Check and see if they have a business license.

Here are few examples:

http://sandgate.co.clark.nv.us/businessLicense/businessSearch/blindex.asp

http://www.lasvegasnevada.gov/CheckStatus/business_licenses.htm?ID=#

What are your locksmith’s credentials? There are two different Locksmith credentials sources - correspondence course and the ALA, or The Associated Locksmiths of America. The latter is usually the better choice. So do your research on who is legitimate in your area. The Associated Locksmiths of America is a great place to start; their site will link you to reputable locksmiths in your area. What does "reputable locksmith" mean anyway? The Federal Trade Commission answers that question for you. The Associated Locksmiths of America web site can also help you find a locksmith in your area that is a member.

Check on insurance. All locksmiths should be able to produce proof of insurance to help protect their business and your belongings. This insurance will cover accidental damage to the property as well as the locksmith’s honesty and quality of work.

Get a recommendation. If you can, ask people you know and trust who they’ve used in the past. They’ll be able to tell you who in your area is a good, trustworthy locksmith and who should be avoided. Once you find a locksmith share the information with the people you care about.

Does your locksmith have a shop? It might be a good idea to avoid locksmiths that work out of their homes or cars. A long standing locksmith with a lot of business will generally have a physical address and a shop that customers can visit. While a locksmith with no store isn’t always untrustworthy, you should definitely take time to find out how long he or she has been in business and whether or not complaints have been registered.

Ask about references. A trustworthy locksmith is going to be willing to give you references, especially if you’re asking for business services. Other businesses should be happy to recommend a trustworthy locksmith.

Price is important. While price isn’t the biggest thing you’ll want to think about, a very cheap locksmith could be suspect. Be willing to pay a little more to get a trustworthy locksmith you’re comfortable with and be happy with.

Don't wait! Find a locksmith in your neighborhood now who is professional and trustworthy. Once you find a locksmith save their information in your cell phone or put it anywhere you can get to it when it's needed most. Having it handy can also help a friend who is in need. So find a locksmith you trust. Don’t forget to share with friends and family.

Find out what spammers are up to. See why finding a locksmith is so important. The Associated Locksmiths of America web site has posted information from the Federal Trade Commission about locksmith scams. According to the FTC, "the complaint heard most often by consumers is for car openings. The price quoted over the phone to stranded motorist is around $45. When the individual arrives and unlocks the car, he hands the motorist a bill for $135 - $150."

Do you think you have fallen victim to a locksmith scam? Post your complaint directly with the The Federal Trade Commission and with your local Attorney General.





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