Hiring a locksmith is not simple as it sounds. Also, the possibility of lockouts occurring at the most inappropriate times adds to this complexity. Hence, it is best to keep the phone number of a locksmith in the contact list. Also, there is a certain number of factors that one need to consider while selecting the right kind of emergency locksmith. These factors are-
A Certified Locksmith is The Way Forward
The first factor that one needs to consider when hiring an emergency locksmith is the knowledge of locks possessed by the locksmiths. This knowledge comes both with education and lot of experience in taking up certain kinds of jobs. Some of the companies that provide locksmiths ensure that all their locksmiths are properly trained, tested, and put through course refreshers on a very regular basis. Before hiring a locksmith, the individual can carefully look at the company’s credentials online before selecting the right locksmith.
Asking the Right Questions When the Locksmith Company Arrives at the Quote
- What is The Labor Charge? – This is usually the first question asked by every customer. The labor charge is usually in the form of hourly or half hourly rates or sometimes it is fixed during the entire duration of job to be done.
- Will there Be a Call Out Fee? – This is usually on top of the labor cost that is charged to certain customers.
- What is the Cost of The Locks? – It is a good practice for the customers to determine the price of the locks that are being used for replacement. This is a little tricky because even the most experienced emergency locksmith will not be able to determine the price without seeing the lock. However, the customer can send out a picture of the lock to the locksmith to get an accurate estimate of the lock.
The Factor of Convenience
Before hiring a certain locksmith, the prospective customer should consider a certain number of convenience factors. Some of these factors include-
- Working Hours – This is an important factor because a regular locksmith is not available 24 hours. However, an emergency locksmith is usually available 24 hours a day and 7 days in a week.
- Location – If the emergency locksmith stays very close to the customer’s house, he/she can reach the customer and attend emergency as soon as possible. Hence, it is very important for the user to hire a locksmith who stays nearby your place.
- Stock of Materials Required to Fix the Lock – In many cases, the locksmith takes some time, analyzes the situation and then goes ahead with the planning of the materials that are required to do the job in hand. However, this is not always the case. In a dynamic world, the emergency locksmith is expected to carry a stock of the materials and then visit the customer’s site.
- Insurance Papers and Certificates – It is not reasonable for the user to ask for the locksmith to show his/her insurance papers or certification. The insurance assures that the locksmith is covered for any kind of unfortunate accidents. The certificates show that he/she knows the job.
Some companies that supply locksmiths usually do not entertain complaints against their locksmiths a little later after the job is completed. Hence, it is a good practice for customers to file a complaint immediately when they notice a problem. The customer can go to a local consumer protection agency with the problem but it is best to not take it to the law when a small conversation with the other party can easily take care of the issue.