What makes a good locksmith? There are several traits that make a pleasant tradesman, but of course your satisfaction comes from more than pleasantries.
Here are some things to look for in a reliable locksmith:
Bonded and insured
Quick response time
Straightforward quotes and prices
Experience and training
Trustworthy
Most of these things you can ask about over the phone. Such traits contribute to a viable locksmith that will treat you fairly and provide the necessary skills. Finding out about your local Markham locksmith before you get locked out can be a huge help. However, if you have to make an unplanned decision in the midst of being locked out, you might not end up with the same level of service.
Plan Now to Save Time and Money Later
Ideally, if you get in a situation where you need immediate help, you’ll simply call the locksmith you chose in advance. Here are some ways to find a reputable locksmith in North York before you need one:
Call around for price quotes
crosscheck online reviews
Go to a local store
Put their number in your phone for later
To determine trustworthiness, it’s a good idea to go to the actual location and ask about customer reviews. You can also enquire about the different professional organizations a locksmith is part of. Gaining all this information in advance will help you to make a wise and informed decision about your locksmith.
If you find yourself in need of a locksmith now, there are still ways to protect yourself from an unfair situation.
When You Need a Locksmith Now
If you’re like most people, you don’t have a locksmith’s number programmed into your mobile phone. More often than not, you need a locksmith when it’s the most inconvenient time to find one. You don’t have time to research reputations or to compare prices. But there are ways you can protect yourself, even in a hurry. Here are some sensible guidelines to follow when you need a locksmith now:
1. Don’t call companies that advertise unrealistically low prices.
A trained locksmith should charge around $100 to help you get into your car or apartment. Don’t fall for the old bait-and-switch that some companies use. They may advertise $9 locksmith services online, but fail to explain that this is the basic fee for showing up. Trust a locksmith that is upfront about their prices.
But don’t go with just any high price, either. Unfortunately, some locksmiths take advantage of a desperate situation and charge more than a fair price. Be aware and ask questions so they know you won’t be taken advantage of.
2. Watch for scams.
Several locksmiths will advertise a local number and store in online directories. They are often part of a national company that operates through call centers. You’ll know this for sure when they answer the phone with something generic, like “locksmith services.” Companies like this send unskilled workers that aren’t insured. Local companies will always answer with their actual name, so don’t trust companies that answer generically.
3. Ask about payment options.
A tell-tale sign of a shady company is one that only accepts cash payments. Even if you are intending to pay with cash, ask if they take payment via credit card. If they do, it usually means they are more reputable.
4. Get a reasonable ETA.
Even if the company is reputable, you don’t want to overpay if you can get someone closer. You’ll be desperate to get into your house or vehicle, so ask for an estimated time of arrival. If it’s unreasonable, try calling another company.
5. Make certain they are insured.
It’s a good idea to get the insurance company’s name and their specific policy number upon arrival. Having an insured locksmith means that you shouldn’t end up paying for any unnecessary damages. It also means that they have the proper certifications.
6. Check identification upon arrival.
Your locksmith should arrive in a marked vehicle. A marked vehicle, uniform, and name badge all signify a reputable company. Another thing to watch for is if a locksmith breaks your door without using any special tools to unlock it. A trained locksmith has the training and tools to open a locked door without unnecessary damage.
Along with following these precautions, be ready to show identification and proof of ownership. Any licensed locksmith should make sure you are who you say before agreeing to unlock something for you.
Advantages of Finding a Locksmith Now
It’s always a good idea to find a reputable locksmith now. This provides countless advantages, including knowing that you’re getting quality work at a reasonable price. You can also rest easy and not worry about having to replace your entire door. There are definitely good, hardworking locksmith companies with qualified and experienced workers.
If you are looking for a reliable locksmith in the Markham area call 905-477-7618, if you are looking for a locksmith in the Scarborough and North York area call , or if you are located in the Newmarket and Aurora area and in need of a great locksmith call 905-477-7618.
Affordable Lock is a locksmith in Markham serving the Greater Toronto Area, including Scarborough, Aurora, North York, Newmarket, Richmond Hill, Vaughan and Stouffville. With over 30 years of experience, we pride ourselves on looking after your commercial or residential locksmith needs. Affordable Lock’s showroom in Markham showcases a wide selection of keys, locks and an assortment of other security products for your home or business. Whether you are looking to upgrade your home or business’s security, or solve security issues, Affordable Lock Services Inc. in Markham is here for you! Give us a call today.