If you’ve never contacted a locksmith before, you may be wondering what to expect. Being more prepared will ensure you can tell whether you’re dealing with a professional and will give you that added peace of mind.
Essentially, there are 5 stages involved with working with a professional locksmith.
We are going to take you through them now so that you are aware of what to expect.
What to Expect When Contacting a Locksmith in Miami
Stage 1: Requesting Assistance
The first stage of working with a locksmith will require you to find a professional and request their assistance. It’s always better to do your research before you actually need a locksmith. This gives you the chance to compare brands, prices, and read through reviews from past customers.
Once you decide on a reputable Miami locksmith, you can either email them if you don’t require urgent assistance or call them for immediate assistance. Most locksmiths are available 24/7 for your convenience.
It’s also recommended that you read through this blog on how to spot a locksmith scam.
Stage 2: A Locksmith is Dispatched
Before a locksmith is dispatched, they will require a basic description of your problem as well as your location. This will help them determine whether they can assist you. You can expect a locksmith to take around 15 – 20 minutes to reach you. Factors such as weather, traffic, roadworks, and whether they’re currently at a client can affect their arrival time.
Stage 3: The Assessment
Once a locksmith arrives at your location, ask to see their ID to confirm they are who they say they are. Reputable locksmiths will also always arrive in a branded vehicle, or at least a branded shirt. Next, your locksmith will evaluate the problem and explain what’s required to fix it.
Ask for a written quotation from your locksmith before they get to work. This ensures you aren’t hit with any surprise costs once the job is complete. It’s even a good idea for you both to sign the quotation.
Stage 4: The Job
Once you agree on a price, your locksmith can get to work. How long it takes them to complete the job depends on the severity of the issue. For example, a simple vehicle lockout won’t take more than several minutes, while a lock replacement requires a bit more time.
In most instances, a locksmith will never have to damage your vehicle or home to get you back in – this is always the very last resort. Be wary of locksmiths that recommended forceful methods and drilling as their first course of action.
Stage 5: Payment
The final stage is payment. Some locksmiths are able to accept payment on-site, while others are happy for you to settle the invoice after they leave. It’s best to clarify what payment methods they accept before you agree to the call out. Cash payments are acceptable but rare, so be wary of locksmiths that insist on cash.
Now that you have a better understanding of what to expect when contacting a locksmith in Miami, you can look forward to a more positive experience.
