When you are dealing with an emergency and you require immediate assistance, you just want to have the problem fixed quickly. However, this is the kind of situation where you are more vulnerable to locksmith scams. So, before you actually get locked-out, make sure to find the best locksmith in Orange who can help you at any time you need.
Here are some ideas on how to avoid being scammed out by a locksmith who has no experience or hiring a thief:
#1: Confirm the locksmith ID and licensure:
California is one of the 15 states who require locksmith licensing. So, as soon as the locksmith arrives, make sure to ask for his identification as well as for his license.
A good locksmith will also ask for your identification to make sure that the home, office or car are really yours.
#2: Ask for a cost estimate:
When you need to hire a locksmith, you will usually need to pay at least $60. However, when you call a company to ask for their prices, some will tell you that it should cost you between $15 and $40. When you see these prices, you better run away.
Even though you may think that this is the more affordable solution, as it appears to be, the truth is that these locksmiths will then include additional charges and fees when the job is complete. And then, you won’t have any other option unless paying what they ask.
#3: Ask about additional charges and fees:
Even though you may have got estimate costs around the $60 we just mentioned, it’s also best to be safe than sorry. So, make sure that you still ask the locksmith if there are any additional charges or fees that you’ll need to pay besides their quote. These can include service call minimums, mileage, or even emergency hours.
#4: Don’t allow the locksmith to drill your door ever:
A good locksmith won’t have any problems opening the door of your home with the right tools. He has all the skills he needs and he won’t even mention using a drill on your door.
In the case the locksmith just keeps insisting for you to do this, and unless you have a high-security lock (which most people don’t), stop him. He will just want to charge you more money for a new door and for a new locker.
#5: Different bids:
When you are checking out a locksmith Los Angeles website and see their quote there and then you call them and you are given a different quote, stay away from them. They probably just want to charge you more money for a crappy job.
As you can see, there are many things you can do to find the right locksmith Los Angeles. You just need to pay attention to what it is said and do your homework before you actually get locked out of home or of your car.