Locksmiths
How to select the best locksmith for your needs
Whether you own a home or business, there can be a variety of reasons that you may need to call a locksmith. Perhaps a lock on a window, door or even filing cabinet is broken. Maybe you have old locks that you would like to replace to improve your security and peace of mind. It is also possible that you are adding locks to brand new construction.
Whatever the reason for seeking out a locksmith, you want to ensure that the quality of work you are getting is the best possible. Having correctly installed and working locks are an important part of the safety of your home or office. You want to find a locksmith who does high quality work with high quality materials.
Today, we are going to guide you through some points that will help you to find the best locksmith for your lock installation or repair needs.
- Review their experience and professional memberships
- Ensure honesty with job and materials pricing
- Make sure the best products are being used for your job
Let’s take a moment to examine each of these in more detail.
Take the time to discuss on the job experience and professional memberships
Many people purport themselves to be locksmiths. It is simple to buy the tools and start advertising, but there is far more to performing this trade well than many people realize. Unlike certain trades, there is no official training and governing body that sets standards for locksmiths, and there is no requirement for a locksmith to have any sort or official licensure.
The good news, is that numerous locksmiths are a member of one of two professional organizations wherein they agree to abide by and uphold rigorous standards of membership. The first of these is the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA), and the second is the Institute of Certified Locksmiths. Both of these organizations require their members to show their competence, submit to inspection and be thoroughly vetted.
It is a huge advantage to select a locksmith who is a member of such an organization. It can bring you great peace of mind in knowing you are working with someone who has proven competence. Although organization membership is a great advantage, do not overlook on-the-job experience.
If a locksmith has a resume that includes a large body of work based experience, especially in the type of locksmith job you are hiring for, this can be more valuable than any organizational membership. Locksmiths can obtain City and Guilds Diplomas or apprentice under an experienced locksmith.
When you are going through the process of hiring a tradesman of this nature, request that they provide you with references that you can speak to. Talking to individuals who have worked with a locksmith for past jobs can be very telling in giving you an educated idea as to what to expect if you employ them for your job.
Review quotes carefully for honest pricing
When you are looking for a locksmith, especially for a job that is sizable, you will want to get a detailed written estimate for their work. It can be advantageous to get several like for like quotes that you can compare. The quote should include line items for labor, materials, travel and after hours or other fees if applicable. These quotes should also lay out a payment plan.
It is not uncommon for a locksmith to require a deposit before they begin work, however, you should be cautious if you are asked to pay for a job in full before the work has been completed. Also, make sure that the estimate you receive includes information on workmanship guarantees or product warranties.
Ensure that top of the line products are being used to complete your job.
Locks are paramount to maintaining safety and security of your living space and prized possessions. When seeking to hire a locksmith, be sure to get specifics on the brands and types of locks they are using to guarantee hassle free and proven protection.
We hope that we have been able to provide you with some excellent tips to direct you in choosing a locksmith for any type of job in your home or business.