How to Identify the Fake Locksmith?

Locksmith advertising can be highly unpredictable when it comes to authenticity and false claims. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the nation's consumer protection agency, has listed the fake advertisements in the local telephone books which may not be trained technicians for the purpose or may have malicious intentions. The desperation to get work leads to lies and unauthorised advertisements.
Timely research

Like it is said, precaution is always better than cure. To avoid last minute emergency situation, one must do a prior research and shortlist the locksmith companies to contact in times of need. Pre homework always saves time money and unnecessary trouble.

Recommendations from family and friends are always trustworthy and welcomed. Apart from this, a thorough online review check and comparison of quotes is also advisable.

In addition to the above, local technicians with local contact details are reliable and easy to approach.

How to spot a fake locksmith?

Address: the first step is to look for the authenticity of the name and address of the reputed company. A Google street view check is the best option to do so. If a company is lying about its contact details it is likely to be a fake one.

Prices: too low on its pricing is also an alarm for fake companies. Compare the prices before hiring a technician. Low fee is generally the service fee that is charged to trap a client in one go. Additional high amounts are later charged. An authentic company knows the exact cost and quotes flat fees.

License: it is unfortunate that all states do not require the license for locksmiths but most still do. So check whether the locksmith is licensed or not in the state and ask for the license, if the case is so.

Identification: authorised technicians generally have an identity card and may have a clearly marked vehicle and equipment too.

Receipt: another mode to know the difference between a real and a fake locksmith in Camberwell is the receipt. A reliable professional will never be hesitant in providing a receipt.

Before hiring an expert a client should get a complete estimate of the work and repair and if anything seems inappropriate never refrain from calling for another one. One must also check whether the locksmith is insured or not to cover any damage caused to the property while repair. Sometimes the companies charge to come to a location so it is always feasible to ask if there is a charge which can either be for mileage, a minimum fee or as service charge. 

Another notable point is how a company responds to the call. A reputed company will answer a call with its full name specifying the name it is registered with. Now, the most important point to consider is that once trapped in an emergency situation, keep calm and refrain from taking impulsive action. Follow the guideline mentioned above and stay safe. In case of a trap the only option left is to inform the police.

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