Locksmith On Wheels

How to Choose the Best Locksmith Near Your Location

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From lock mechanism failures to lost keys and break-ins, professional locksmiths provide an array of services dedicated to helping customers with their lock and security needs.

But how should you choose the best locksmith near your location?

No doubt there are plenty of businesses to choose from, making it difficult to quickly assess which are good and which might be unlicensed, provide overpriced services or simply don’t have a good reputation for service and support.

This guide was made to cut through the “noise” online, helping you to find and choose the best locksmith near your location with confidence that you’ve made the right decision.

1. Understand the Type of Services You Need

Locksmiths aren’t always “full service”, meaning that they may or may not offer the particular service you need. While this step may seem obvious, it is the easiest first “filter” you can use to narrow down your choices when choosing the best locksmith near you.

  • Commercial or residential lock installation
  • Mechanical or electronic/smart lock services
  • Lock repair
  • Replacing keys (electronic fobs, keycards, or physical metal keys)
  • Lock rekeying
  • Emergency lockout services for car or home

Once you’ve narrowed down the list of locksmiths that provide the service you need you can further vet our providers using the next steps.

2. Are they Local / Do They Service your Area?

Another simple, yet quick way to narrow down your options, is to verify which areas they service and how local they are to where you live. Local businesses closer to where you need assistance or that have mobile units in the area often means they can be on-site faster, helping you get back to your daily plans quicker than if they had to come from miles away. Locally owned and operated businesses also generally care more about their reputation in the community and often provide better service. 

Summary of Why this is Important:

  • Local reputation to uphold may mean better service
  • Fast response for emergency calls
  • Possibly lower-priced due to less time needed for travel to your home or business

3. Is the Provider Covered Under any Insurance or Memberships you are a Part of?

Everyone likes saving money. If you need lock replacement as a result of damages from a break-in (for example) your insurance may cover these expenses. Call your provider and see if they have a list of preferred vendors or if you are open to choosing one yourself. Similarly, some memberships such as AAA may provide discounts for certain providers in your area.

Summary of Why this is Important:

  • Insurance may cover costs for services
  • You may qualify for discounted services 

4. Reviews and Ratings of the Locksmith

Reviews and ratings of the locksmith can provide real world insight into the types of experience others have had with the locksmith’s service. Look for reviews related to your particular situation or service that you need. Keep a mindful eye out for the review dates: are they recent or old? Also, be mindful of the influx of reviews and ratings. Are they getting a steady flow of positive ratings from happy customers or only once in a while. While not always a red flag, these signs can indicate a problem.

Places to Look for Reviews:

  • Google
  • Yelp
  • Social media (such as Facebook business pages)
  • Asking your network of friends/family for recommendations 
  • BBB (Better Business Bureau) 
  • Forums and blogs

Summary of Why this is Important:

  • Reviews provide confidence that you’ll get good service
  • Many reviews over a long period of time indicate a consistent and reliable quality of service you can expect
  • Allows you to filter out any “bad” actors

5. How Long Have They Been In Business?

The locksmith industry is hyper-competitive. Those businesses who have been in service for years have likely done so because they take care of their customers and do good work. That doesn’t mean a new business is necessarily bad, but just that they have not had time to “prove” themselves. Whereas a business in service for 10 years (for example) should have a clear and demonstrated track record of happy customers and satisfied clients.

Summary of Why this is Important:

  • May indicate good business practices
  • A good sign of customer satisfaction and reliability 
  • Allows you to look into their track record over the years

6. Credentials and Licensure of the Locksmith

Always check for or request to see credentials. Do they have any certifications? Are they a member of any leading locksmith or other business organizations? Do they have a valid business license to operate in your city? Does the information on their website or business card match that on any estimates they provide you?

Summary of Why this is Important:

  • Training and certifications demonstrate proficiency and experience
  • Associations and industry credentials indication they are up to date on best practices
  • Licenses ensure that the business is in compliance and in good standing 

7. Clear and Transparent Estimates

Any reputable locksmith should be able to provide you with an itemized and detailed estimate on the costs of services that is clear to understand and doesn’t have any hidden expenses. They should be willing to provide this in writing, or electronically via email or their website. 

Summary of Why this is Important:

  • Important for easily comparing service costs between providers
  • Demonstrates a level of authenticity and ethical business practices 
  • Ensures you have proof of agreed upon services and charges
  • Eliminates the risk of unexpected fees

8. Responsiveness and Communication of the Locksmith

Communication is key with any service-oriented business. Pay attention to how fast they pick up the phone or return voicemails or emails. Are they friendly and courteous? Or do they seem curt and rushed? Are they willing to take time to understand your situation and work with you to find an optimal solution, or does it seem like they just want your money?

Summary of Why this is Important:

  • You should feel valued as a potential customer
  • Fast response time means they care about you and your time and indicates they are well organized and ready to help fast
  • Friendly representatives should make you feel comfortable 

9. Bonded and Insured

Valid insurance ensures that both your property and the locksmith are covered in the event of unexpected damage to property or person. For example, if the locksmith slips and falls or is otherwise injured on the job while on your property, their insurance covers the accident. 

Bonds are also important. A bonded locksmith means that they have a bond that ensures a reimbursement guarantee to the owner of the property (i.e. you) in the event that the locksmith causes any damage. As such, a bond provides additional protection for both parties. 

Summary of Why this is Important:

  • Ensures you won’t be held liable for any accidents that occur on your property
  • Ensures any accidental damages caused by the locksmith are covered by his bond

Finding the best locksmith near your location doesn’t have to be that difficult. Since inception Locksmith on Wheels has provided fast, affordable, reliable and professional mobile locksmith service for virtually any key or lock problem you may encounter.

Call us today at 925-905-9940 and find out why so many local residents trust us to get the job done right. We would love to learn more about how we can help, and offer services by appointment or emergency calls 24/7.