Choosing a locksmith is a big deal. Unlike other tradies, locksmiths can get into your home whenever they like. So your locksmith needs to be trustworthy. Not to mention, professional, reliable, courteous and affordable.
So how do you know your locksmith will be any good? If you’re in a rush, it can be easy to choose the first locksmith advert you see in the local paper or the first to appear in your Google search.
But before you choose a locksmith, make sure to ask these six questions to be confident your locksmith is the right person for the job.
Do you have customer reviews, testimonials and referrals?
A bunch of happy customers is the greatest feedback you can get. A good locksmith should have plenty of reviews via Google, as well as on their own website. Keep an eye out for fake reviews. If all the reviews are written in the same tone and all of them are five star, then be suspicious. A good locksmith will have a high overall score. Also, they are not afraid to post the occasional lower score review. You can see how they respond to reviews too, especially negative reviews. A professional courteous response is the sign of a good opera
The MLAA is the Master Locksmith Association of Australia. Having a locksmith who is a member of the national industry body ensures that your locksmith:
- is a qualified and experienced security industry professional
- is licensed to operate as a locksmith under relevant State and Territory security industry legislation
- abides by an established code of ethics (see below) and code of conduct.
What type of work do you do?
Ask them before you specify your own job. That way, you can be sure they really do your kind of work. There are many types of locksmiths around. Commercial, electronic, domestic, automotive, emergency and many others. If they don’t mention the service you’re looking for, you better find another locksmith!
How long have you been in business?
Experience pays. So, it’s better to have a locksmith with twenty or even forty years of experience, rather than a newbie!
(Here at Amalgamated Locksmith we have more than 30 years of local experience.)
Do you offer any guarantees?
Professional locksmiths are happy to stand by their work. So, they offer guarantees and warranties with confidence. If the workmanship is not up to scratch, a good locksmith will offer a replace or repair guarantee.
What are your rates?
Locksmith prices can vary greatly. Therefore, it’s good to research prices to ensure you are getting the best value. Locksmiths can charge for travel time, callout fees, time taken on the job and of course for any products they use. For example, the price for a replacement lock on your front door could include travel time, time taken on the job and the cost of the actual lock being installed. Also, other costs can include weekend surcharges, emergency callout fees, and other hidden extras. A professional locksmith will be able to simply and clearly explain their fees.
