No one likes it and no one likes being a part of one, but scams happen every day to the unexpected and it can cost them big bucks. Of all the scams out there, like those notorious 'get rich quick' gimmicks, there's another scam that is becoming a major problem: locksmith scams. Too often, people who are in need of locksmith service believe they are at the mercy of the locksmith and whatever price they are charged is what needs to be paid. With this being said, those locksmiths who are scam artists will prey on the vulnerable and take advantage of the situation. However, there are some indicators that can help you identify a locksmith scam before it's too late!
Verification
Every real and reputable business will be able to verify their credentials which will include their company name, address and other valid information. This type of verification process can simply be conducted over the phone by asking the right questions. If you have a locksmith on the phone, you should ask for basic information and then dive into the harder hitting question: is your company insured? The majority of real locksmith companies will have some sort of liability insurance because their services may have some risk of damaging personal property. A good rule of thumb is to ask for the policy number and what insurance company provides the coverage.
Over The Phone Quote
It wouldn’t be a good business move for any company to not provide a quote for service. With this being said, ask the locksmith what the estimate price would be for service. If the price point seems to be too farfetched, cross check the quote with a few more calls to other locksmiths. Additionally, ask if they accept different forms of payments and raise a red flag if they only take cash.
Visual Cues
Avoid locksmiths that do not have proper attire or a branded vehicle because this is a telltale sign of a scam. You should expect to see professional company logos on clothing, vehicles and more when dealing with a true locksmith company. If a locksmith arrives to your location lacking the above, do not proceed with any service.
Getting scammed by a locksmith can sometimes feel worse that locking yourself out and knowing what to look for can save you time and money. For a reliable and trustworthy locksmith in Philadelphia, check out North Philadelphia Locksmith for service around the entire city.
Verification
Every real and reputable business will be able to verify their credentials which will include their company name, address and other valid information. This type of verification process can simply be conducted over the phone by asking the right questions. If you have a locksmith on the phone, you should ask for basic information and then dive into the harder hitting question: is your company insured? The majority of real locksmith companies will have some sort of liability insurance because their services may have some risk of damaging personal property. A good rule of thumb is to ask for the policy number and what insurance company provides the coverage.
Over The Phone Quote
It wouldn’t be a good business move for any company to not provide a quote for service. With this being said, ask the locksmith what the estimate price would be for service. If the price point seems to be too farfetched, cross check the quote with a few more calls to other locksmiths. Additionally, ask if they accept different forms of payments and raise a red flag if they only take cash.
Visual Cues
Avoid locksmiths that do not have proper attire or a branded vehicle because this is a telltale sign of a scam. You should expect to see professional company logos on clothing, vehicles and more when dealing with a true locksmith company. If a locksmith arrives to your location lacking the above, do not proceed with any service.
Getting scammed by a locksmith can sometimes feel worse that locking yourself out and knowing what to look for can save you time and money. For a reliable and trustworthy locksmith in Philadelphia, check out North Philadelphia Locksmith for service around the entire city.
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