How Do You Avoid Crooked Locksmith Scams?
No one likes feeling scammed. And when it comes to locksmith services, you never want to be taken for a ride. Unfortunately, shady locksmith businesses exist and prey on unsuspecting customers who are in an emergency and are simply trying to get help.
In this blog post, we will discuss how to protect yourself from crooked locksmith scams and ensure you’re getting legitimate services from a reputable business. We will cover warning signs to look out for, what you can do if you’ve already been scammed, and how to find a reliable locksmith in your area.
By the end of this post, you’ll have all the information you need to ensure your locksmith experience is good. Let’s get started!
Top Tips to Avoid Getting Scammed By a Fake Locksmith
1) Ensure You’re Dealing with a Reputable Locksmith
This is most probably the first thing you have to make sure of. Before dialing any locksmith, ensure they are a bona fide organization. Unfortunately, dishonest companies often omit their physical address as it would require them to take responsibility for fraudulent activity.
Thus, if the Locksmith does not have an official headquarters listed on their website or social media pages – consider seeking help from another, more credible business.
2) Make Sure to Inquire About Any Additional Costs
When it comes to scams, one of the most common tactics is making a low-price promise only to add additional fees after services are rendered.
To prevent this from happening, ask any vendor on the phone if they will charge extra once you commit to their service—that way, you can be sure there won’t be hidden costs or surprises later down the line!
3) Scan Their Testimonials and Reviews
To determine whether or not an automotive locksmith is reliable, the most straightforward way to get the facts is by looking at customer reviews. If you come across many one-star ratings and negative feedback from consumers, it’s probably best to search for another service provider that suits your needs better.
4) Contact the Locksmith to Review Their Services
Taking a proactive approach is always the best way to prevent problems from arising. It’s wise to locate a trustworthy locksmith before needing one; that way, you can ask questions and store their contact information for future use. With this preemptive measure in place, you’ll be well-prepared should an emergency arise!
5) Inspect the Locksmith’s Car or Van
When your Locksmith shows up, ensure they are in a marked vehicle. Many con artists claim to be associated with a company when that is false. A legitimate business should have cars labeled for identification and ease of recognition.
6) Don’t Believe Exaggerated Actions
If a locksmith attempts to scare you by informing you that they’ll need to destroy your window or door for them to unlock it and then graciously offers an expensive alternative solution—don’t bite! This is one of the most common scam tactics.
7) Get a Quote from the Locksmith Beforehand
An underrated step to avoid unexpected expenses is always to request a written quote from your Locksmith before they start working. This way, you will know exactly what to expect when completing the job.
8) Your Satisfaction Comes First
If you’re unsatisfied with a locksmith’s work (dents on your vehicle, etc.), contact their company immediately, and don’t pay for the services until they meet your standards. Ensure the locks are functional after work and aren’t too hard to open.
Once you’ve assured yourself that your keys still function correctly, you can rest easy knowing everything is ready.
Final Thoughts
Getting scammed is the last thing you want to deal with regarding locksmith services. By following the tips mentioned in this blog, you can ensure your next experience will be positive.
Please do your due diligence before selecting a residential locksmith, and always read their customer reviews for added assurance. Doing so will help ensure that your locks are cared for in a safe, honest, and reliable manner.
