If you have just moved into a new place, you

If you have just moved into a new place, you should call a locksmith and have them change the locks right away. Even if the former owners seem trustworthy, you don't want someone walking around with keys to your home. The price of a lock is small compared to the need for safety for you and your family.

It may be tempting to call multiple locksmiths when you are locked out of your car or home, but this is a very bad idea. This means inconveniencing anyone that is unfortunate enough to show up a bit later. In some cases, all of them will leave you stranded as a courtesy to one another.

Pay attention to the car the locksmith is driving. It should be adorned with his or her business slogan. If the locksmith arrives in an unmarked vehicle, it is probably best to look for someone else. The locksmith that you called may not be legitimate and may try to scam you.

No matter if you believe you won't need a locksmith, it pays to prepare yourself anyway. Research and find a professional locksmith before you need one. Save the number of the locksmith in your phone for emergencies.

Get a receipt when the work is done. Many locksmiths are honest, but some cannot be trusted. That is why proof that they were completely paid is necessary. Keep the receipt in case you have any questions.

Make sure that any locksmith you hire is insured and bonded. If they are missing one or the other, it would be a good idea for you to hire someone else. Being bonded will help protect you against terrible workmanship and insurance will cover any damage done to your property.

Question the company about how much of your information they are going to retain after the job is completed. Also find out what that information will be used for. Finally, if the locksmith is working on your residence, make sure that the locksmith doesn't set the locks to take a master key. This could be a security issue down the road.

See the existing customers that a locksmith is working with. Most companies will gladly give you the references you ask for, and you should actually call those references. Determine the locksmith's reliability and trustworthiness this way.

Be suspicious of any locksmith who tells you that it is necessary to replace or drill out a lock if you find yourself locked out. A capable locksmith will get your door open without drilling and replacing your lock; and you should also be able to get a new key.

Compare the invoice presented to you with the person's business card, license and even signage on their vehicle. If they all match, you're good to go. If the invoice has no company name, be wary. Unless they operate as an independent contractor under their own name, you might be facing a scam.

Check your state's Attorney General website when researching local locksmiths. They will have information on local businesses and any complaints filed against them. This is a great way to narrow down your list only to those who are high quality companies who truly supply what they promise when you hire them.

Being a locksmith is about much more than simply making a few keys. It's about being a respectable professional in the industry that people can depend on completely. Hopefully you have found this article useful and now know exactly what to look for. You've got too much riding on it to accept just anyone at your door.