You are locked out of your house so you frantically call a locksmith. It’s raining, dark and cold. You don’t care how much it costs-you just want to get inside. However, it’s important to be sure you aren’t duped. According to Robert Campbell, owner of Advantage Locksmith NYC in New York City, any legitimate company will not charge the same at midnight as does at 10 in the morning. But you should still do your homework when you are trying to get into your house under the gun. Here is what to look for in an emergency locksmith:
- Call a well-known locksmith-ask a neighbor who he recommends. Be sure to look for someone local.
- Call two or three locksmiths to get a sense of how much they charge.
- Ask questions: Have they done anyone in the area? Do they know where you live? Do they take credit cards? See if they seem professional.
- Get them to commit to a price. Find out if there is a service charge or what work you will be responsible for, even if you don’t use them.
- Tell them you want access to your home and nothing more. You don’t want someone to come in who is going to change all the locks in your house. You can always get them changed the next day, when you are not in such a dire state.
