Being locked out of your home or office or even vehicle is more common than you think. Believe it or not, it can happen to anyone, anytime. Losing your key or breaking it in a lock can be incredibly stressful. In most cases, people often make the mistake of trying to force open the door in these situations that can be both risky as well as costly. So rather than acting rashly, the experts recommend that you should call a professional locksmith who can expertly help you gain access to your property.
However, finding an emergency Locksmith in Tulsa OK is not as simple as picking up your phone and dialling the first number that comes up in your search results. Why? Because some of these listed locksmiths are either unlicensed or amateurs that can do more damage than good. This is why it is important for you to be aware about the risks of calling the wrong locksmith for your needs.
In this article, we will help you spot the fakes ones from the lot so that you only allow the reliable ones into your safe haven.
Ask for IDs and licenses
Did you know that some locksmiths work in close collaboration with the thieves and burglars who wouldn’t mind targeting your home if they know how to get in and out without causing an alarm? This is why you should not allow unlicensed locksmiths in your property. To avoid hiring these criminals, you should always ask for valid licenses and identification before hiring them.
Always get a quote beforehand
One of the biggest complaints that consumers make with regards to unlicensed locksmiths is being overbilled for the services. So before you bring them on board, ask them to give you a full quote of the services that will be provided for the price they are offering. Make sure there is no scope for hidden charges and fees that can be added to your bill in the end. If you notice that the on-site estimate is not the same as one discussed on the phone, then you are likely dealing with an unlicensed locksmith. In that case, don’t allow them to work on your locks. At the same time, if you find that the locksmith is charging you unreasonably for their service and is unwilling to negotiate, then don’t hesitate to walk away from the deal.
Be wary of locksmiths that recommend lock replacement
While in some cases it may be required, lock replacement is mostly avoidable by simpler services like rekeying or key duplication. If you find that the locksmith is insistent on replacing your locks, then consider taking a second opinion. An experienced locksmith with requisite tools and equipment are able to unlock any door without the need to perform a full-fledge lock replacement, unless it is absolutely necessary.
Keep these points in mind when you are looking for a locksmith to handle your locks and keys.