When you’re in a hurry or in an emergency and need to get into your home or car, it’s easy to get taken advantage of by locksmiths. They may quote one price, but when they show up they charge much more.
It’s no secret that locksmiths can take advantage of people in a hurry or who are in an emergency situation. They may quote one price, but when they show up they charge much more.
At Regal Locksmith of Bethesda MD, we believe that you should never have to pay more than the quoted price. We offer upfront pricing so that you know exactly what you’re paying for, and we never change our rates once we’ve arrived on-site.
When it comes to hiring a locksmith, you want to make sure that you are not being ripped off. Unfortunately, there are many locksmiths out there who are looking to take advantage of unsuspecting customers. So how can you prevent yourself from being ripped off when getting a locksmith?
Here are the 10 tips on How To Prevent Being Ripped Off When Getting a Locksmith
1. Get a Quote in Writing
When you call a locksmith, make sure to get a quote in writing. This way, if the price changes once they arrive, you have something to reference. If they refuse to give you a written quote, find another locksmith.
2. Ask About Their Pricing Structure
Some locksmiths charge by the hour while others charge a flat rate. It’s important to ask about their pricing structure so that you know what to expect. If they are vague or refuse to answer your question, move on to another locksmith.
3. Ask if There are Any Additional Charges
Many locksmiths will charge additional fees for things like after-hours service or mileage. Be sure to ask if there are any additional charges so that you can budget accordingly.
4. Check for Reviews Online
Before hiring a locksmith, be sure to check for reviews online. This will give you an idea of what other people have experienced with the locksmith and whether or not they would recommend them.
5. Get a Referral from a Friend or Family Member
If you know someone who has used a locksmith in the past, ask for a referral. They can give you first-hand information about their experience and whether or not they were happy with the service.
6. Go with Your Gut Feeling
If something doesn’t feel right, go with your gut feeling and find another locksmith. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
7. Check for Certification
When you’ve narrowed down your list of potential locksmiths, be sure to check that they are certified. This means that they have undergone the proper training and are qualified to do the job.
8. Verify Their Insurance
In the event that something goes wrong, you want to make sure that the locksmith is insured. This will protect you from having to pay for any damages out of pocket.
9. Ask for an Estimate Before They Begin Work
Once the locksmith arrives, be sure to ask for an estimate before they begin work. This way, if the price is higher than what you were quoted, you can negotiate or find another locksmith.
10. Pay with a Credit Card
If possible, pay with a credit card so that you have proof of payment in case there is an issue later on. This will also give you the option to dispute the charges if necessary.
By following these tips, you can prevent yourself from being ripped off when getting a locksmith. Choose someone who is reputable and trustworthy, and always get a quote in writing before they begin work. With a little research, you can find a locksmith that you can rely on for years to come.
Trust Regal Locksmith of Bethesda MD!
We are a professional, licensed locksmith company specializing in preventing being ripped off by an unlicensed locksmith, residential, commercial, and automotive services. We have been servicing the Bethesda area for over 10 years and our goal is to provide you with the best possible service at the most affordable prices.
We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to assist you with all of your locksmith needs. Whether you need emergency lockout service, lock re-key, lock repair, or replacement, we are here to help!
FAQs About How To Prevent Being Ripped Off When Getting a Locksmith
What are some red flags to watch out for with locksmiths?
When you’re in need of a locksmith, it’s important to be able to spot a rip-off artist. There are unfortunately many people out there who will take advantage of your situation and try to charge you exorbitant prices for subpar work.
Here are some red flags to watch out for:
1. The locksmith doesn’t have a physical address.
2. The locksmith quotes you a price that seems too good to be true.
3. The locksmith doesn’t have any ID or credentials.
4. The locksmith tries to upsell you services you don’t need.
5. The locksmith doesn’t seem to be knowledgeable about the latest lock technology.
If you see any of these red flags, it’s best to find another locksmith. There are plenty of reputable locksmiths out there who will provide you with quality service at a fair price. Do your research ahead of time so you know who to call in an emergency.
How can I find a reputable locksmith?
There are a few ways to find a reputable locksmith. You can ask friends and family for recommendations, or you can search online for customer reviews. Once you’ve found a few locksmiths that you’re interested in, be sure to call them and ask questions about their services. You should also make sure to get a few different estimates before you make your final decision.
What should I do if I’m ripped off by a locksmith?
If you’ve been ripped off by a locksmith, the best thing to do is to file a complaint with the Better Business Bureau. You can also contact your local consumer protection office or the police to report the incident.
If you have any evidence of the fraud, such as a written estimate or a recording of your conversation with the locksmith, be sure to include that in your complaint. Taking these steps will help prevent others from being scammed by the same locksmith.
Are there any scams associated with locksmiths that I should be aware of?
Yes, there are unfortunately a few scams that are associated with locksmiths. One popular scam is known as the “bait and switch.” This is when a locksmith quotes you a low price over the phone but then tries to charge you more once they arrive at your location.
To avoid this, be sure to get a quote in writing before the locksmith arrives. Another common scam is when a locksmith claims that your lock is too damaged to be repaired and that you need to have it replaced. This is often not the case, so be sure to get a second opinion before agreeing to any work.
When you need a locksmith, it’s important to make sure you’re dealing with a reputable company.
Here at Regal Locksmith of Bethesda MD, we pride ourselves on being a reliable and trustworthy locksmith service. We offer a wide range of services, from emergency lockout assistance to lock replacement and key duplication. We’re here to help you get the job done right, whatever your needs may be.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment or for more information about our services. We look forward to helping you get the security you need and deserve.
