As New Yorkers we all know or heard about locksmiths being dishonest and riping unsuspecting customers off. Unfortunately its one of the things we’ve all gotten used to.
We’ve put together 5 tips that will help you identify the real from the fakes:
1. Look at the phone number
Legitimate locksmith services are local and will most likely have a 212 or 646 are codes (for Manhattan). Illegitimate locksmiths will commonly use a cell phone (917) or an 800 number to mask their real phone number.
2. What is the company’s real name?
What’s in a name? Unscrupulous individuals often operate under many business names or aliases. They may answer the phone with a generic phrase like, “locksmith service” or simply “locksmith”. If the call is answered this way, ask, “What is the legal name of your business.”
3. Get an Estimate
Find out what the work will cost before you authorize it, if possible have the locksmith write it down or submit a proposal prior to commncing work. Never sign a blank form authorizing work.
4. Unmarked vehicle
Most legitimate locksmiths will arrive in a service vehicle that is clearly marked with the name of the business. Illegitimate locksmiths will usually operate out of a personal car or van.
5. Ask for an invoice
Insist on an itemized invoice. You can’t dispute a charge without proof of how much you paid and what you paid for.
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Using these tips is a basic tool for filtering the professionals from the “fakes” but dont forget to use simple common sense when dealing with a locksmith (or any other service provider for that matter).
If for any reason you are not comfortable working with a locksmith for whatever reason let them know and see if they can resolve the issue. if they won’t dont be upset. Take the invoice they gave you as well as any other correspondance and file a claim with the BBB.
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SOS Locksmith is a licensed bonded and insured locksmith and has been serving New York since 1973. Click here to view our BBB profile.
