Locksmiths install, repair and rekey locks, as well as other mechanical or electronic locking devices that safeguard homes, businesses and vehicles. They also make duplicate keys and cards, and respond to emergency calls to unlock cars, trucks and homes.
Mornings, Bradley mans a worn wood counter that doubles as a visual tour of key-cutting technology through the ages.
Avoid Scams
When dealing with a locksmith In Plantation is important to be aware of common scams. A lot of locksmith scams are done through the use of pay-per-click advertising. These paid ads will appear in search results and can look very legitimate, some even have pictures of actual storefronts and customer testimonials.
When calling a locksmith for the first time it is very important to ask them what their price is. Many times they will quote a very low price such as “14 and up” this is a red flag as it is unlikely that a company can stay in business charging such a low price.
Other scams include rogue locksmiths who will quote a very low cost to attend but once they arrive the price is always going up, this is a classic bait and switch technique often used on people with locked UPVC mechanisms. This is a great way to rip off customers and should be avoided at all costs.
Find a Locksmith Before You Need One
Just like you wouldn’t hire an unlicensed plumber, you should be sure to look for locksmiths who have been licensed and certified by a professional body, such as the Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA). This shows that they are fully qualified and that they have been independently assessed.
In addition to rekeying and replacing locks, locksmiths can also install extra security measures, such as deadbolts, on doors. They are also able to work on more advanced locks, such as security safes and vaults.
Locks are exposed to a lot of stress, and they can break down over time due to metal fatigue or regular use. When this happens, it’s important to find a locksmith who offers emergency services and can help you get back into your home or business without damaging the property. The best way to do this is by checking online reviews and ratings. You can also ask friends and family members for recommendations.
Ask Questions
It’s important to ask a lot of questions when dealing with locksmiths. This will help you make sure they are being honest and professional. It will also give you an idea of what to expect.
Some of the questions you might want to ask include: how much it will cost to change a lock, how long they estimate it will take to complete the job and what kind of locks are on your door. This will help them provide an accurate quote. Also, be sure to ask if they will charge for after hours service.
You should also check your locksmith’s reputation online. A quick search of their name on the BBB website should tell you if they have any complaints and how they were handled. A reputable company should have no problem sharing this information with you. Access control is a great way to restrict unauthorized entry into your business, home or rental property. Sienna Plantation locksmiths can install keypads and other access control methods to help keep your items safe from unwanted trespassers.
Pay Attention to Red Flags
If you’re locked out of your car, house, or apartment in the middle of the night and need help immediately, it can be tempting to call the first number that pops up on Google. But be careful, says a recent Angie’s List report. You may end up dealing with a scammer who takes advantage of you in your vulnerable state.
Legitimate locksmiths should be able to provide you with identification and a license (if required by your state). They should also have a branded van and uniforms to identify themselves as workers for their company.
Another red flag to look out for is if the locksmith’s on-site price doesn’t match the estimate you got on the phone. Also, ask the locksmith about their liability and warranty. This will protect you in case they cause damage to your property. Currently, 15 states and some cities require that locksmiths be licensed. But, don’t be fooled—unlicensed locksmiths are still out there preying on people in their time of need.