Almost every week, there are more than 4 instances where a person loses his key or work ID badge in the United States. There’s always someone like that who is surrounded by such worries. It sure can be extremely frustrating, especially if it is your only set of keys. At times as such, the only solution that comes to mind is to hire a professional locksmith. But are you sure which locksmith expert is the right one to hire? Here are 10 frequently asked questions from a locksmith that may help you the next time you’re locked out of your house or car.
1) Are You a Certified Locksmith Specialist?
The first thing to ask a locksmith is whether he or she is certified. Certification from the Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA) is the most reputable in the industry and shows that the locksmith has completed at least 240 hours of classroom instruction and hands-on training.
2) What Forms of Payment Do You Accept?
Locksmiths usually accept cash, check, or credit card. Some also accept debit cards. Be sure to ask what forms of payment the locksmith accepts before hiring him or her.
3) What Services Do You Offer?
Most locksmiths offer a variety of services, including key duplication, lock picking, and installation of new locks. Some also offer safe-cracking services and keyless entry systems. Be sure to ask the locksmith what services he or she offers before hiring him or her.
4) How Much Do You Charge?
The price of a locksmith’s services depends on his or her experience, location, and the type of service being provided. Key duplication, for example, is usually cheaper than lock picking. Locksmiths in small towns typically charge less than those in larger cities.
5) Do You Offer a Discount for Seniors or Military Personnel?
Some locksmiths offer discounts for seniors or military personnel. Be sure to ask the locksmith if he or she offers any discounts before hiring him or her. By doing that, you will realize that the locksmith you’re about to hire has a soft corner for the customers and will go to extra lengths to offer you a discount, when or if needed.
6) Do You Offer a Warranty on Your Services?
Most locksmiths offer a warranty on their services. The length of the warranty varies but is typically 30 days. You should ask the locksmith if he or she offers a warranty on his or her services beforehand. It will give you the satisfaction that you can call upon them in the future, just in case, if the services were not up to par.
7) Are You Bonded and Insured?
Bonding and insurance protect the locksmith and his or her customers in the event of property damage or injury. Be sure to ask the locksmith if he or she is bonded and insured before hiring him or her. Insurance policies will save you from the hassles of getting involved in unnecessary paperwork or documentation if the locksmith by any chance injures themselves.
ALSO READ: Should You Rekey Locks Or Should You Replace Them?
8) Do You Have a Physical Address?
A physical address is an important sign of a legitimate business. Having a brick-and-mortar store location ensures not just the legitimacy of the business but also provides a customer with a single contact point. Having a physical address allows you to address your customer’s concerns more legitimately.
It has many increasing benefits.
9) Do You Have references?
References can provide valuable information about the locksmith’s work ethic and quality of services. Having a person or two backing up the locksmith’s services can give you the peace of mind that you’re making a wise decision in hiring him or her.
10) What Are Your Hours of Operation?
The hours of operation vary from a locksmith to a locksmith. Some are available 24 hours a day, while others have more limited hours. Be sure to ask the locksmith what his or her hours of operation are before hiring him or her. That way, you can be sure that the locksmith will be available when you need him or her.
These were some of the most frequently asked questions to a locksmith. By asking these questions, you can be assured that the locksmith is indeed a professional. Are you looking for a professional locksmith in Birmingham AL? You can hire a specialist from AFA Locksmith who will answer all your burdening questions very professionally.
