Are you making the most of your local locksmith or security company? Is your house, building, or car as safe as they can be? Do you sleep easily, knowing everything is in good hands?
The Locksmith Series – Part 1
We all want peace of mind right? We all want to know that the things that matter to us are safe from theft, fire or other forms of loss or damage.
But all too often, we only do the most obvious and easily accessible security measures. We love to DIY in New Zealand and don’t see why we need to consult with professionals… until all of a sudden we wish we had. Right?
However, locksmiths offer a wide range of services other than unlocking your car at Countdown.
I was speaking to a mobile locksmith from Chubb the other day. Chubb Security have been locksmiths and security providers in the New Zealand scene for as long as I can remember. I’ve grown up with that name.
While I was talking to him on the phone I was impressed with his knowledge and expert advice regarding my situation. He had experience. He was a great communicator. I felt at ease with him.
But the main thing is, he had many ideas that I had no clue about. He offered solutions to my problem that I didn’t even know were possible.
It made me think. How many others ideas does he have for my security and peace of mind? What else am I missing simply because I haven’t asked – or didn’t even know to ask?
Which leads me to point number one
Trust
As you watch your locksmith step out of his van, in that moment he becomes the last person in the world that you want to have doubts about!
Even before you discuss the deadlock or alarm you need, you want to know that you can trust your locksmith.
So how can you be sure?
5 Tips on How to Find a Trustworthy Locksmith
Find Your Local Locksmith
You want to engage a locksmith who lives, works and plays in your area, with people you likely know. This way, they have something to lose if they give you poor service.
Word of mouth
Now, get on Facebook and ask your friends, family and community for recommendations of a locksmith who has proven trustworthy in the past. What do they have to say about the local guy?
You cannot beat good recommendations from trusted friends.
Be wary of cold callers
Don’t give your business or your money to anyone who turns up to your house unexpectedly. If it seems too good to be true it probably is.
You should also be careful about anyone who phones to say they will “be in your areas next week,” unless you can first verify that they are actually reputable and simply using a personal marketing strategy.
Usually, anyone with a rock solid reputation is too busy to try these tactics.
Don’t be tricked by technical jargon or aggressive sale pitches
It is important you watch out for so-called locksmiths who try to confuse you with technical jargon or are too pushy and aggressive when talking to you. Never feel pressured into hiring someone then and there.
Aa responsible tradesman would expect you to go away and do your homework first.
Ask for references
Always ask your tradesman for two or three references from previous customers before you agree to give them the job. You can then contact these people to find out how happy they were the contractor and their work.
Ask for Identification
When the locksmith arrives at your home, the most important thing to do is check their identification. Their vehicle should also give you important contact details that you can use to verify their authenticity.
Get a Written Estimate
When you first call and book an appointment, let them know that you need a written estimate or quote. This will help you prevent cash-up-front scams an attempts to rush you into making a decision. Avoid the temptation to accept jobs on-the-spot unless you are very confident based on the above suggestions.
OK, that’s the intro. Next week I’ll dive into how a locksmith can help you and your vehicle