Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Locksmith

If you have a lock replacement or installation project, your chosen locksmith could determine the success or failure of your project. Due to the increasing availability of online locksmiths and simplified hiring procedures, the possibility of hiring an inexperienced technician is higher today than when you had to visit a locksmith's office to hire them. 

However, you can still find the right locksmith for your job if you vet all prospective locksmiths before you hire one. Vetting helps you learn more about a locksmith to get the information you need to gauge their ability to complete your project flawlessly.

Here are some questions to ask a locksmith to determine their competence and suitability for the job.

1. Are They Licensed?

Since locksmith services require some skills and experience, you must ensure that your chosen locksmith has undergone relevant training and has enough experience in the field. A locksmith's license is one of the documents you can use to check if they meet all the requirements.

Moreover, most states in the US require locksmiths to have a license. Locksmiths cannot repair, install, inspect, or service locks without a license.

2. Are They Insured?

Only hire a locksmith with general liability and workers' compensation insurance to avoid liabilities related to injuries and property damages. These insurance policies cover any property damage and bodily harm that could happen due to accidents when the locksmith is working on a property.

Moreover, having an insurance cover is an indicator that the locksmith is seriously in business and they are willing to protect their clients from liabilities. If you hire an uninsured locksmith, you are liable for any damage to your property or injury to the technician or a third party.

3. Do They Offer a Warranty for Their Work?

If a locksmith is confident with the quality of their work, they can offer free repairs for any problems related to the services provided. Also, ask about their warranties' restrictions to determine what could void the warranty. A locksmith who doesn't offer a warranty for the services you need should provide a reasonable reason.

4. Do They Have a Specialty?

Licensed locksmiths can perform all typical locksmith jobs, like repairing, servicing, installing, and inspecting locks. However, a locksmith can perfect their skills in a particular field and make it their specialization.

For example, a locksmith might have a specialty in keyless entry systems for businesses or smart homes. Due to increased knowledge and experience, specialized locksmiths can do a better job in their specialty area than general locksmiths. Therefore, consider hiring a specialty locksmith if you need specialized locksmith services.

5. Do They Have References You Can Call?

Most online reviewers don't explain why they rated a locksmith poorly, but you can get a detailed review from references. Since you have never worked with a locksmith before, you can only rely on reviews by previous customers to gauge their ability to offer excellent services. Therefore, ask the locksmith for at least three recently served people and call them.

Some questions to ask include the type of locksmith work they had hired the locksmith for and why they would hire or would not hire the locksmith again. A locksmith with excellent customer service and quality workmanship should get positive comments from their references.

Finding a locksmith for your project is not always easy, especially if you need special skills. Use the questions above to create a dialogue with a locksmith and learn more about them.

At Dixie Safe & Lock Service Inc., we have the skills, experience, and equipment required to offer quality services. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.