When it comes to residential services, you know a locksmith can help you out. Commercial businesses can also find help from a locksmith, be it replacing an automatic door or providing new keys when a disgruntled employee doesn’t return theirs. Whatever your needs, the great advice below will help you find an amazing locksmith.

Do not let the locksmith begin work until he or she has given you an estimate. Rather than simply getting a verbal estimate, insist that the locksmith write the quote down on paper. This way, you have proof of the number that you were quoted. As long as you agree with the price, work can commence at that point.


Review the Better Business Bureau website to find a locksmith’s reputation. This tells you whether or not you have found a scammer. Checking the ALOA website gives you more information about a locksmith’s validity.

If you have a key that says “do not duplicate” on it, you can still go to a locksmith and have them make you copies. Many people offer these keys because it encourages you to pay them to get duplicates. Most locksmiths won’t think twice before making you a spare.

Ensure that the locksmith is licensed before hiring him. This certification ensures that he has the necessary skill to perform the work. Each state offers licensing of locksmiths. When the locksmith arrives, ask for identification, a business card and his pocket license. This will help ensure that the person you are dealing with is who he says he is.

Hiring a locksmith can be expensive, but remember that it is not a job that most people can do on their own. If you try to get into your car or home without a key, you may mess up the lock. This may then necessitate that the entire lock be replaced, which is very expensive. Save yourself the hassle and just call a locksmith.

Never hire a locksmith after only considering one. Weigh a few options before you decide on one. You will know what the rates are with various companies. One you know the average, you can opt for a locksmith who is charging fairly.

After a locksmith has changed the keys or locks in your home, try them yourself before he leaves. While his work is no doubt top-notch, new keys and locks can be tricky. Make sure you can figure out the knack or get his advice on how to break them in, so that you’re not frustrated about it later.

Look for locksmiths who are active within their communities. This isn’t absolutely necessary, but it’ll be reassuring to know your locksmith is staying on top of current trends. It also lets you know he’s dedicated to what he’s doing.

If you end up turning away a locksmith who comes to your home for whatever reason, be careful if they become agitated. This is a person who knows how to pick locks and they’ve already proven to be unsavory. If they start trouble, call the police so that it is on record.

When you are locked out of your home, a good locksmith should be able to unlock virtually any door. If a locksmith insists on drilling into your door or tells you that the lock needs to be replaced, be wary of the service. Most locks can be opened without damaging your door.

When you encounter a situation that requires the services of a locksmith, but you are unsure where to turn, it always pays to seek personal recommendations. Ask a friend in town or maybe your next door neighbor to see if there is a locksmith from whom they have received great service. In this way, you will have full confidence in the professional you select.

Once you are given a quote by a locksmith, ask them what it is included in this price. Some locksmiths will give you a low price, then they will tell you there are more charges once they get to you. Asking a few questions will clear everything up so there is no confusion later.


Check your state’s Attorney General website when researching local locksmiths. They will have information on local businesses and any complaints filed against them. This is a great way to narrow down your list only to those who are high quality companies who truly supply what they promise when you hire them.

Steer clear of any locksmith who simply uses a generic name for his or her services. Look for a reputable company with a brand name attached. Those generic companies are more likely to be scams, so its best to avoid them all together. Plus, it helps you narrow down the best choice in your area.

Request that your given a receipt for all the work your locksmith has done. You want some sort of proof of the work that’s been completed just in case there’s an issue with the lock in the future. Also, make sure that the receipt is itemized, right down to the parts purchased and the labor cost.

Search for a local locksmith with a lot of experience. If they have just come to the area, then ask for references from their previous location. Do a search online for the company to see if you can find customer feedback.

You want a locksmith that has a long-standing good reputation. If they are new to the area, ask them for references from wherever it was they last worked. Google both their name and previous location to search for reviews, both positive and negative.

It is customary to give a tip to the locksmith if he did a good job, so give him a tip if you think he deserves it. This is certainly the case if you are dealing with an emergency call. 15% is something for a regular locksmith to get, and you should tip 20% if they did the job after hours.

After reading through this information, you should now know what is required to find a good locksmith in your area. Takes note or print a copy of this article to take with you while you search. If you prepare yourself, the search is sure to go smoothly.