Search for a locksmith and every ad says much the same thing. Slogans cost nothing, so it pays to look past them. Here is what actually tells you whether a locksmith is a good choice, including us.
Clear pricing before work starts
Ask how the price is built. Ours is published: a $29.00 service call fee plus labor, plus hardware if you buy any, with starting prices on our price list. The locksmith should confirm the total on site before starting. Be cautious of anyone who won't give any figure at all.
Who will actually do the work
Many locksmith phone numbers, including ours, are referral and dispatch services that pass jobs to independent contractors. That's common in the trade, but you should know it. Our terms and conditions explain the arrangement, including who invoices you and who provides warranties.
They check your ID
A locksmith who opens a door without asking whether you live there would do the same for anyone. Being asked for ID is a good sign.
Insurance and licensing
In California, locksmith companies and individual locksmiths are licensed by the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS). It's reasonable to ask for a license number and whether the locksmith carries liability insurance.
Red flags
- A price on the phone that jumps dramatically on arrival without explanation.
- Drilling a standard lock as the first option for a simple lockout.
- Pressure to replace locks that only needed rekeying.
- No invoice or receipt.
The short version
Look for transparent pricing, honesty about who does the work, ID checks and proper licensing. If something feels wrong, you're free to decline and call someone else.
