Do you have a locksmith's number on your speed dial? The truth is, many homeowners do not have a locksmith that they can call when they lose their house keys or damage their locks. As such, they are often stranded for hours as they look for a locksmith once an emergency strikes. You can avoid these hassles by engaging a locksmith long before you require their services. Below is a comprehensive guide detailing some questions you should use to interview a locksmith. Hopefully, the guide will help you choose a locksmith for your needs.
What Is Your Operating Area?
Ideally, the locksmith should be conveniently located. It would be tempting to hire a cheap locksmith located a distance from your home. However, disasters strike when least expected. For instance, your key could break inside the lock on a rainy day. For this reason, you should hire a locksmith who can respond within a few minutes.
What Is Your Availability?
If possible, you should consider locksmiths that offer 24/7 services. It ensures that the locksmith can respond to your issue at night, during the weekend and during holidays. 24/7 locksmiths also have a flexible schedule. Typically, if they are engaged elsewhere, they will not fail to attend to your issue because it's too late.
Are You A Freelance Locksmith Or Employed By A Company?
Most people are often conflicted over whether they should work with individual locksmiths or locksmith companies. The primary benefit of a freelance locksmith is that they offer personalised services. Their downside is that they could have an engagement when you call them. On the other hand, locksmith companies employ many locksmiths. As such, they can send a locksmith to your location within a few minutes. The downside of company locksmiths is that you must be ready to deal with different professionals. Additionally, it is difficult to ascertain the locksmith's experience.
What Services Do You Offer?
The locksmith should offer a wide range of services, including:
- The installation and repair of various locks, including mortise locks, cam locks, deadbolts, euro profile cylinders and interchangeable core cylinders.
- Repairing and replacing car keys if you are locked out of your car.
- Installation, repair and maintenance of home alarms and restricted access systems.
- Key cutting and duplication when you need a spare key to your home.
Do You Have Insurance Coverage?
Insurance coverage protects you from liability claims should an accident occur at your premises while the locksmith is working. For instance, they could injure themselves or third parties or damage your property or a neighbour's property.
When engaging a locksmith, inquire about their operating area, availability, affiliation, services and insurance coverage.
