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When you are faced with a problem, what is your next move? Contact a locksmith if you get locked from your home or car. Who are you going to call when that happens? If not, you can use the information that follows.

Greenville Locks

2723 Poinsett Highway

Greenville, SC 29609

(864) 641-3425

Always get keys made by a locksmith that is close to your home. Sometimes keys are not calibrated correctly and they will not fit the lock in question. Going to someone too far means there will be a hassle if you have to take the keys back. Aim for a place that is a mile or two from where you live.

Try to call the same locksmith every time you are having a problem. It may seem embarrassing, but this is something they are used to. You don't want to trust too many people with this kind of job, so once you find someone reliable you should give them all of your business.

If you can see a photo ID, when a locksmith arrives to help you, ask them. You want to make sure that this person is who they say they are. Some states require locksmiths to have a license. You should ask to see that as well if you are in one of those states.

Ensure that the locksmith is licensed before hiring him. This certification ensures that he has the necessary skill to perform the work. Each state offers licensing of locksmiths. When the locksmith arrives, ask for identification, a business card and his pocket license. This will help ensure that the person you are dealing with is who he says he is.

Do not let someone drill into the lock prior to trying any other tactics if you cannot get into your home. In addition, someone that wants to immediately replace the lock is probably not legitimate. A good locksmith can get into just about any door. Therefore, the two steps mentioned above should not be necessary.

If you can see a photo ID before they get started, always ask a locksmith. Do not be offended if they ask you for the same. Any good locksmith will ask for an ID so they know that you are someone who is authorized to enter the home or vehicle in question.

When a locksmith raises the quote on arrival, ask them to leave. You don't have to deal with a dishonest locksmith because there are many reliable ones out there.

Before letting a locksmith into your house, make sure you have references and recommendations. Once you have them, give each a call. You need the best quality services and a person that you can completely trust.

Ask for a referral list of their customers, before trusting a locksmith with your keys. Most legitimate businesses will be more than happy to provide a list of references. You should actually check these references out as well. Knowing how dependable the locksmith will be and how much he or she will charge is very helpful.

When searching for a reputable locksmith company, discuss any additional charges for the work you are having done. Some companies will charge significantly more for excessive emergency and mileage hours. They could also have a service call minimum where you may pay them over $50 for two minutes of work.

It is a good idea to drive over to a locksmith's place of business before hiring him to do any work on your home. This will give you a good idea of what type of person you are dealing with. Many scammers will give you an address that does not exist, so this can help you weed them out.

If you are hiring an auto locksmith, check their insurance before they begin any work. You want to make sure that there is something to safeguard you in case there is damage to your car. Make sure that they prove the insurance is current since it is not uncommon to be provided with an expired policy number.

When searching for a reputable locksmith company, discuss any additional charges for the work you are having done. Some companies will charge significantly more for excessive emergency and mileage hours. They could also have a service call minimum where you may pay them over $50 for two minutes of work.

Protect yourself against being locked out by making extra keys and hiding them where you can easily get them. Calling a locksmith can be expensive as well as inconvenient, so planning ahead is the best way to avoid the situation. Do find and store numbers of trustworthy locksmiths in your cellphone just in case.

Steer clear of any locksmith who simply uses a generic name for his or her services. Look for a reputable company with a brand name attached. Those generic companies are more likely to be scams, so its best to avoid them all together. Plus, it helps you narrow down the best choice in your area.

If a new locksmith jumps right to you needing a new lock to fix your issue, be very wary of this person. Most locksmiths have the tools in their arsenal to open just about any lock. There are very few they can't tackle. If a replacement is being offered as the first and only option, you may be being scammed.

It is a bit scary to be locked out of your vehicle in an empty parking lot, but don't allow a situation like this to cloud your judgement. You should let them know that you will not be needing their services after all if you call a locksmith and someone shady shows up. Bad signs include lack of licensing, unmarked vehicles and a refusal to hand over an ID.

What does the company hold on to after the job is finished? For instance, is your key and your address kept in their files? You may not want this to happen for security purposes. Ask about this important matter well beforehand.

Whether you want to upgrade your door locks, add some window locks or just get inside when your keys are missing, a locksmith is the person to call. You have to rely on their expertise to ensure you can sleep soundly at night. Hire the best using the advice here and relax.