Probably one of the most common frauds nowadays, being a victim of a scam locksmith company can cause more disasters than you can think. So follow these 7 useful tips, and never fall for a false locksmith in Hollywood Florida.
As scary as it sounds, a locksmith fraud is a serious issue that can jeopardize your family and life. The phenomenon is getting pretty regular nowadays, and hence it is important to stay extremely alert and smart whenever you are opting for a locksmith Hollywood Florida service. These fraud locksmiths target homes and residents who are in their most vulnerable states and are desperate to get immediate assistance.
Going to a locksmith Hollywood Florida service, you just found online can be risky as you can become a victim of fraudsters who are imitating the genuine ones. These people often impersonate local locksmiths and don’t have a local shop. They are usually run by out of the state call centers. As a matter of fact, they are not trained at all, and their main motto is to get access to your house.
It is understandable that you are not in your proper state of mind during a locked out situation, or during getting stranded in the middle of nowhere, but we advise you to check up on these following points and make sure the locksmith in Hollywood Florida that you are going for is 100% genuine. Do your research upfront, be cautious, plan ahead, and pay attention. Stay safe from fraudsters and follow these simple tips mentioned below:
Local is the key
Whenever you are opting for a locksmith Hollywood Florida services, it is always better to go for the local ones. They are recognized and you can even get proper feedbacks and reviews. If a locksmith business shows a local address, check over the internet if there are any other businesses that are registered with the same address. It is even possible that shady locksmiths won’t list a physical address to avoid scammed customers. Even if you are in extremely hurry, do take your time in research, and all the ones you feel are genuine. Ask a nearby neighbor or friends and get suggestions. Check on the code of the mobile number, and see if they are using any offshore code.
Proper license and identity
If your locksmith in Hollywood Florida is a local business, check if they are registered and licensed by the American Locksmith Association (ALOA). Do not go for a company without proper credentials. Only 15 states in America require locksmith licensing, making it a crime to advertise or work as a locksmith without proper credentials in these states. They are Alabama, California, Connecticut, Illinois, Louisiana, Maryland, Nebraska, New Jersey, Nevada, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Oregon, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia. See if your locksmith is registered under any of these states. A genuine locksmith company will also provide a legit ID proof. Make sure you check it before proceeding.
Ask for an estimate
Whenever you are calling for a locksmith Hollywood Florida service, get an estimate over the phone first. Make sure they do not have any hidden charges. Get proper estimate break up, and ask if they include labor costs, emergency cost, and service fees. You must also get a written estimate after they visit. The onsite estimate should match the phone estimate. If a locksmith is hesitant to give you a proper signed and written estimate, then do not allow them to start the job. This can indicate they are not genuine and are in the intention to make quick money.
Avoid cash transactions
A genuine locksmith company will provide you with multiple payment method options like cash, credit or debit. Any company that has no other payment options except cash, have something fishy about them. It can mean that looking for quick money and there is a 99 percent chance that it is a scam. Make sure you get proper information on their payment procedure before they start their work. Always try to go for credit card payments, so that, if you need to, you can contest the charges.
What’s in the name? Well, there is a lot
Whenever you are calling a locksmith company, and they are answering by generic phrases like “locksmith at your service” “locksmith services”, instead of a company name, then it is better to avoid business with them. An Honest, legitimate locksmith Hollywood Florida will always have a specific name that will make them stand out from the rest. Stay away from the generic and go for the legitimate ones.
Do not allow drilling
A professional and experienced locksmith in Hollywood Florida will unlock a door just like that. If they insist on drilling on your doors, so not allow. Chances are they are a scam and are intending to charge more money.
Never leave the locksmith unattended
Whenever an unknown person is entering your house, you can really trust them. Keep an eye on them all the time, and make sure you do not leave the room. Your alert and carefulness can prevent you from being scammed.
Half Price Locksmith is a reputed locksmith company in Hollywood Florida, licensed by the American locksmith association. They are having strong expertise in fixing locks and providing security solutions for residential, commercial, and automotive locksmith problems. Your security is their top priority. Avoid getting conned by fraud locksmith companies, and trust only the best in town.
