As a locksmith in Brooklyn I am sometimes called on to do jobs that other "locksmiths" might not be capable of performing.
This can be and is a sometimes disconcerting problem in that myself and the other locksmiths I know here in Brooklyn pride ourselves on not only being professionals, but also knowing all of the ins and outs of the business.
That is why I would like to take the time to discuss in this article a couple of questions to ask a locksmith prior to having them come to your location and perform work for you.
First of all, and this is most important, make sure that the Brooklyn locksmith that you are going to use is licensed and bonded. This is something that every locksmith must be and is a buffer in case any accident such as damage occurs. Most jobs are quick and have been performed numerous times, so a person need not worry, but there is always the possibility and you want to be covered.
Second, make sure to explain exactly what your situation is. Is it a break in, an auto or home lockout, problems getting in to a safe? All experienced locksmiths will be able to give you a quote that while not always binding should there be other issues will be very close to what the costs will be based on your description and you want them to stick to that. All too often I have heard stories of locksmith quoting one price, arriving for a fifteen minute job and charging much, much more than what was quoted.
If a locksmith shows up for your job and is unsure about how to open or repair a lock or door or has problems with making keys, etc. stop them right there and inform them that you would like to have someone else come and do the work. The last thing anyone wants is for an inexperienced person to be working on their car or home or any other possession.
A locksmith should never ask you for personal information beyond making sure that it is your vehicle, your home, etc. This is a perfectly understandable situation and proof must be asked for and provided upon the locksmith's arrival or after they have opened a residence or attended an auto lockout. The reason for this, as most are aware, is that it is highly illegal to open property that does not belong to the person who is needing the work, and the locksmith can be held accountable just as much as the person attempting to commit theft.
Whenever you are in a time of need and have concerns those concerns should be voiced and then met by the person providing service. Your local Brooklyn locksmiths are certainly busy and some of them are not long with conversation, however, you will know when you have a skilled and experienced one and that is always how it should be.
Be wise and never let someone come to help you if you have doubts and remember that you are the customer and we work for you!
