Being locked out of your apartment, home or vehicle is very common and can happen to just about anyone and at anytime. Experiencing a lockout situation can be really stressful, especially if it occurs in right in the middle of the night or in a deserted parking lot. Often times, your first reaction upon discovering that just closed the entrance door to your apartment shut with the keys still on the dresser or slamming your car doors shut with the keys still on the ignition would be to feel shocked and panicky.
Most of us would likely call up a relative or a friend as ask them if they can get hold of the spare keys—that’s if they are easily accessible. However, when neither your relative nor the spare key is available, the only thing left for you to do is to call up a 24 hour emergency locksmith to help you open the door. In as much as the need to get back on road again or get into your home is very important; before dialing a random locksmith’s number, it is essential for you to be aware that you could be putting ourselves into a real danger if you end up calling the wrong type of locksmith to handle your lockout needs.
In years past, there have been many recorded cases and complaints of fraud by unlicensed and counterfeit locksmiths in different areas. The complaints made by the victims of such phony locksmith service providers included overbilling as well as the use of outright intimidation tactics.
Due to the fact that locksmiths will have unrestricted access to your property is among the reasons why you should be careful with the type of locksmith service provider you hire. Never allow an unlicensed locksmith to work on your doors as such companies may serve as fronts for thieves who could be targeting your home. Therefore, the most important precaution for you to take in order to avoid hiring such criminals is place to always and never fail to ask for a valid means of identification and a locksmith license when the locksmith arrives at your location.
To avoid being overbilled by unlicensed locksmith companies, always get a price quote on any service you require before allowing any work to commence. This also includes estimates for emergency services and any extra charges for things such as emergency hours, mileage and service call minimums before you agree to have the work performed. If the on-site price given by the locksmith upon arrival at your location doesn’t match with the estimates given over the phone, then it’s a clear sign that you may be dealing with an unlicensed locksmith company. Don’t allow the work to be performed on your home or vehicle if you find that to be the case.
If the locksmith tries to inflate the prices for untenable reasons or hesitates to come to an agreement with you–walk away from the deal.
A number of unlicensed locksmiths have been known to use intimidation and threats to make their victims agree to their terms. If you find yourself dealing with such a locksmith, do not hesitate to contact the authorities immediately.
Always be wary of locksmith companies who insist on drilling or replacing the lock up front. It’s another clear indicator that you may be negotiating with an unlicensed and possibly unskilled locksmith. An experienced locksmith would have the necessary skills, tools and equipment to unlock just about any door.
