Locksmith Scams and Consumer Awareness
Locksmith Scams and Consumer Awareness
Imagine being locked out of your car in a remote parking area, or worse, being locked out of your house at night. During these desperate moments, you require the services of a reliable locksmith. Unfortunately, you can contact people with dubious intentions unknowingly!
Recently, new scams have emerged because people are vulnerable and desperately need locksmith services in Atlanta, GA.
In this article, you'll learn the locksmith scams to watch out for, and how to protect yourself from them.
The Growing Issue of Locksmith Scams
Over the years, locksmith scams have been growing rampant, especially in areas where people search for fast solutions during lockout emergencies.
In reality, dishonest ‘locksmiths’ exploit vulnerable clients and make lowball offers on the phone only to impose higher charges when they arrive - these scams are increasing.
Common Locksmith Scams to Look Out For
Low-Quote Lures
Most times, scammers offer an immensely low price quote over the phone as one of their tactics. After arriving at the location and assessing the problem, they cunningly identify other issues as an excuse to increase the price.
False or Exaggerated Charges
Sometimes scammers add a component of “emergency or service fee” that was not mentioned from the beginning. For example, a simple lock rekeying may come with extra money for ‘labor’ or ‘tools.’ The customer is then left trapped because, without payment, they won’t use the car or access their home.
Untrained or Unqualified Technician
These scam artists use inexperienced persons for the job hence leading to locksmith scams. These so-called “locksmiths” can damage your property or do a poor job. They will install bad-quality locks that compromise your security, and quote a higher price or premium for their bad services.
Protecting Yourself from Locksmith Scams
The following tips can assist you to avoid being a victim of locksmith scams:
Research
Take some time to read about the business and its services, as well as, reading some reviews. Make sure that the locksmith you have hired has insurance. Do not hire any provider that cannot give you specific information regarding their credentials.
Get a Written Quote
Before any actual job begins, ask for an official quotation. An honest locksmith will be very clear about his pricing. A red flag is when the locksmith calls and then gives a low price or never gives an estimate.
Look for a Local and Established Provider
This means that locksmiths, who have been in business for several years and have great reputations, have low tendencies to engage in fraud.
For instance, QuickPro Locksmith is a reputable service provider offering fair prices for our services. We do not compromise quality as we always adhere to client satisfaction. Before and during the process, we deal directly with the customer so you know exactly what to expect.
Check and Verify their Credentials
The locksmith should be certified. For instance, they can show a card or certification from the Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA). This ensures that the technician is qualified to do the job and follows industry standards.
Do you need the services of a Reliable Locksmith?
Locksmith scams exist, and they can make people feel weak and economically pressured.
However, one can avoid falling prey to scammers by following the tips we shared in this article. Call the experts from QuickPro Locksmith when faced with an emergency locksmith problem.
