13 Ways to Identify and Avoid Locksmith Scams

Are you needing a reputable locksmith but are worried about falling victim to a scam? Look no further! In this blog post, we’ll give you insight into how to spot and steer clear of a locksmith’s fraudulent practices – there are 13 methods for you to consider.

So, let’s get started and ensure you have a safe and secure experience with your locksmith service.

1. Research Locksmiths in Your Area and Read Reviews

One of the best ways to avoid locksmith scams is to research locksmith services in your area and read reviews from previous customers. This can give you a sense of the company’s reputation and help you avoid those with a history of scamming customers. Look for reviews on sites like Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau to get an idea of the company’s customer service and quality of work.

When reading reviews, pay attention to any red flags, such as customers being overcharged, poor customer service, or unprofessional behavior.

2. Ask for Proof of Licensure and Get References

Another way to avoid locksmith scams is to ask for proof of licensure and get references from the company. Legitimate locksmiths should have a valid state license and be able to provide proof of it upon request. It is significant to note that not all states require locksmiths to be licensed, so checking your state’s regulations and requirements is important.

Getting references from the company is also a good idea. Ask the locksmith to provide you with the contact information of previous customers they have worked with so you can ask about their experience. This can give you a sense of the company’s professionalism and quality of work. If a locksmith declines to provide references or proof of licensure, it may be a red flag, and you should consider finding a different company.

3. Consider Getting More Than One Quote

This can help you compare prices and ensure you are only getting a fair deal. Scammers often quote low prices over the phone to get customers in the door but then charge exorbitant prices for their services once they arrive. By getting quotes from multiple locksmith companies, you can compare prices and ensure that you get a fair deal.

When requesting quotes, provide the same information to each locksmith, such as the type of lock and the location. This will ensure that you are comparing apples to apples.

4. Avoid Any Locksmith Without a Physical Address and/or Phone Number

Scammers often use PO Boxes or cell phone numbers as their business addresses, making it difficult to track them down if they scam you. A legitimate locksmith will have a physical address and phone number that they can provide, which can be used to verify their business and contact them if necessary.

It’s also important to check that the physical address is real and not a fake one. You can use Google maps or other online tools to check the address and see if there’s a business at that location. Furthermore, a trusted locksmith will have a professional website with detailed information about their services, location, and contact information.

5. Ask Questions About the Services and Their Rates

When speaking with a locksmith, ask about the specific services they offer, such as lock installation, lock repair, and key duplication. Ask for a detailed explanation of the services and associated costs. An experienced and trustworthy locksmith will always provide you with thorough and accurate information concerning their services and costs.

You should also ask about the company’s pricing policy. Some scammers may quote low prices over the phone but then charge exorbitant prices for their services once they arrive. Reputable locksmiths will be upfront and honest about their rates, and they should be able to provide you with a detailed estimate of the cost of the service.

6. Make Sure the Locksmith is Certified and Insured

A certified locksmith has the necessary training and qualifications to perform the job, and an insurance policy will protect you in case of any accidental damage to your property.

Ask the locksmith to provide proof of their certification and insurance. To ensure that you work with a reliable locksmith, always acquire the necessary paperwork to verify their qualifications and insurance coverage. It’s important to note that not all states require locksmiths to be certified, so checking your state’s regulations and requirements is important.

Also, check the expiration date of their certifications and insurance. They must be up to date. Expired certifications and insurance would be a red flag and a reason not to hire the locksmith.

7. Wary of Suspiciously Low Quotes

When you are getting quotes, ask the locksmiths for a written estimate and if their quoted price includes any additional fees, such as travel or service charges. This will help you get a better understanding of the total cost of the service and help you to compare prices more accurately.

If a locksmith offers a quote significantly lower than other quotes you have received, it may be a red flag. It’s important to note that the cheapest quote may only sometimes be the best deal. A locksmith offering a very low price may cut corners on quality or service or even be a scammer.

8. Ask for an Itemized Invoice Before You Pay

A reputable locksmith will be able to give you a detailed invoice that itemizes the cost of each service provided, including parts and labor. This will help you to have a clear overview of the charges and make it easier to compare prices and ensure that you are not overcharged.

Additionally, ensure that the invoice includes the locksmith’s contact information and business address, as well as the date and time of the service. This will serve as a record of the service and can be used to contact the locksmith if there are any issues or disputes.

9. Check an Unmarked Vehicle

A reputable locksmith typically has a marked vehicle with the company’s name, logo, and contact information visible. When the locksmith arrives, take a moment to check the vehicle and make sure it’s marked and affiliated with the locksmith company you called.

If the locksmith arrives in your location with an unmarked vehicle or cannot provide proper identification, keep them from entering your property. Instead, contact the company and ask them to send a different locksmith or cancel the service.

10. Check Identification

A legitimate locksmith will have identification, such as a driver’s license or a business card, that they can provide upon request. This can be used to verify the locksmith’s identity and ensure that they are affiliated with the company you called.

When the locksmith arrives, ask for their identification and check it against the name and photo of the locksmith that should be on the invoice or the contact information provided by the company. Ensure that the identification provided matches the name of the person who is supposed to be doing the work and that it’s not expired.

11. Only Pay up Until You’re Happy With the Job

Before the locksmith begins the work, ask about the company’s policy on payment. A reputable locksmith will be upfront and honest about when payment is expected and only ask for payment once the work is completed.

Once the work is completed, inspect it thoroughly and ensure that it meets your expectations. If you are unsatisfied with the work, wait to pay the locksmith until the issues are resolved.

12. Avoid Cash Payments and Use Credit Cards Instead

When you pay using a credit card, you can dispute any charges that you believe are fraudulent or unauthorized. This can provide an added layer of protection and make it easier to resolve any issues that may arise.

It’s important to note that some legitimate locksmiths may not accept credit cards. In that case, you can use a check or a money order instead. This will also give you proof of payment in case of any issues.

Additionally, if the locksmith insists on cash payment, it could be a red flag, and you should consider finding a different company. Fraudulent locksmiths often prefer cash payment because it’s harder to trace, and it’s more difficult for customers to get their money back if they are scammed.

13. Contact the Better Business Bureau

The BBB is a non-profit organization that tracks customer complaints and ratings for businesses, including locksmiths. They can provide you with valuable information about the company’s reputation and help you to avoid those with a history of scamming customers.

You can check the company’s rating, customer reviews, and complaint history on the BBB website. If a company has a high number of complaints or a low rating, it may be a red flag, and you should consider finding a different company.

The BBB can also help you resolve disputes with a locksmith. If you have any issues with the service provided or the charges, you can file a complaint with BBB. They will investigate the matter and try to help you to resolve it.

Avoid a Locksmith Scam

By following these steps, you can help avoid a locksmith scam and ensure you get the service you deserve. Keep King Locksmith Atlanta’s contact information safe so that if you ever need a professional locksmith service, it’s easy to find them. Remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your security.