There can be a number of reasons you may need the services of a locksmith in Houston, TX. Perhaps you have locked your keys in your car or, worse, the trunk. Maybe you have had a bad tenant in a rental property and need the doors rekeyed. Possibly you have just purchased a new home and want to upgrade its security features. Regardless of your need, it is essential that you hire the right locksmith for the work you want to be performed.
The question is, how do you know what Houston locksmith to hire? Not all locksmiths are created equal. Some are highly specialized, and some may not even be properly licensed. In the interest of helping you make sure you find the right locksmith to fill your needs, we offer a few helpful questions you should ask before hiring a Houston locksmith.
Do They Offer Emergency Service?
Depending on your knowing if a locksmith offers emergency call-out services can be a major consideration when deciding what Houston locksmith to hire. If you’re stuck in a parking lot with a buggy full of groceries in the rain, they can’t do you much good if they won’t come help.
Most of your better, well-established locksmiths in Houston, like Locksmith Doctor, will offer mobile services on an emergency call-out basis.
Are They Licensed, Bonded, and Insured?
Regardless of why you need a locksmith, making sure they are appropriately licensed, insured, and bonded should always be a major concern. Being licensed assures you that they are members of the local business community in good standing that observe and comply with all the laws that apply to working as a locksmith.
Knowing that your locksmith is bonded and insured provides you with the peace of mind of knowing that you will not be held responsible if they should suffer any mishaps while working for you and that they will make good on any damage or loss that you may suffer.
Do They Conduct Background Checks?
It is best to avoid working with any locksmith service that doesn’t take the time to thoroughly investigate their people before hiring them. It is unfortunate that not everyone with knowledge of locks and locking mechanisms is honest.
A company that deals with the safety and security of its client’s homes, businesses, and vehicles should ensure its employees have a sterling character. Make sure they run complete background checks through a reputable investigation company.
What Do Their Clients say About Them?
It is always wise to look at what a company’s clients say about them. You can begin by looking at their website, but it is better to go beyond this and check with the Better Business Bureau, Google Business, and similar sites for unbiased reviews.
What Services Do They Offer?
Not all locksmiths are full-service. Some are highly specialized, and others only offer limited services. As a general rule, larger companies, like Locksmith Doctor, who can fulfil virtually any needed service you may need, are a better choice when deciding what Houston Locksmith to hire.
This allows you to develop a relationship with them without the need to constantly search for a service provider each time a need arises.
What’s The Standard Price Range For Their Services?
Any reputable Houston locksmith should be able to give you an accurate price for their standard services. For more involved projects, you may have to settle for a rough estimate.
What you have to be careful about is that some locksmiths will take advantage of situations where you are in a bind. If a company’s prices take a major jump for emergency services, they should be avoided. People who will price gouge you in your time of need should not be trusted. We are transparent and fair with our pricing, every time.