Top Tips to Avoid Rogue Locksmiths

Posted by Alba 2 on August 17th, 2018

How to Find the Best Locksmith in Your Area

There are good locksmiths but unfortunately there are also bad locksmiths out there. So how do you know which is which when you need an emergency locksmith in a hurry? Here are our top tips.

1. Ask friends and family for recommendations. A good locksmith will have built up a good reputation over the years and will rely on word of mouth recommendations for new work. This type of locksmith will work hard to maintain this reputation, so is usually a safe bet.

2. Check online reviews. It is easy to spot locksmiths who have lots of 5* reviews from happy customers, as well as those that have none (or few). It can also be useful to read between the lines of what is being said in the reviews to get a feel for the type of person who will arrive at your door.

3. Ask if they have locksmith insurance. A reputable locksmith will have public liability insurance to cover costs if they damage your property.

4. Get more than one quote. Always shop around so that you can gauge whether the quote you are given is reasonable or not. Also be aware that some locksmiths will try to trick you by giving you a really low estimate over the phone and then add lots of extras when the job is finshed. Always ask about extras such as 'call out' fees, VAT etc.

5. Check the locks they fit are well known brands. Most locksmiths will have a few brands of locks  that they prefer to use, but dodgy locksmiths will often fit cheap unbranded locks bought from places like ebay. Always ask to see the packaging. Common good brands of lock include Chubb, Yale, Era, Union, Legge, Garison, Asec and Assa Abloy.

If you follow these tips you will hopefully be able to avoid the few rogue locksmiths out there. Then when you do find a good locksmith that you are happy with, remember to keep their number handy incase you find yourself locked out and need them again in a hurry.