Common Locksmith Scams and How to Avoid Them

When you’re in a hurry and locked out of your home or car, it’s easy to fall prey to locksmith scams. Unscrupulous locksmiths can take advantage of your situation, leaving you with poor service and an inflated bill. To protect yourself, it’s essential to be aware of common locksmith scams and how to avoid them. Here are some tips to help you identify and steer clear of fraudulent locksmiths.

1. The Low Quote Scam

One of the most common locksmith scams involves a company advertising an incredibly low price, often as low as £19 or £29. When you call, they assure you that the quoted price covers the service you need. However, once the locksmith arrives, they claim the job is more complicated and will cost significantly more. You may end up paying several hundred pounds for a simple lockout service.

How to Avoid It: Always ask for a detailed quote before agreeing to any work. A reputable locksmith will provide an estimate that includes all potential charges. If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is.

2. The Bait and Switch Scam

In this scam, you contact a locksmith who advertises under a reputable company name. When the locksmith arrives, they use a different company name and logo. They may claim that the advertised company was unavailable, and they were sent as a substitute. This scam often leads to overcharging and poor-quality work.

How to Avoid It: Verify the locksmith’s identity and company affiliation before they start work. Check the company name on their vehicle and uniform, and ask for identification. Confirm the company name with the one you originally contacted.

3. The Unnecessary Drilling Scam

Some fraudulent locksmiths claim that your lock needs to be drilled and replaced, even when a simple lock-picking would suffice. Drilling is more destructive and expensive, leading to higher charges for unnecessary work.

How to Avoid It: Ask if the locksmith can unlock your door without drilling. A skilled and reputable locksmith should be able to pick most standard locks. If they insist on drilling without a valid reason, seek a second opinion.

4. The Fake Locksmith Scam

In this scam, individuals pose as locksmiths without any training or credentials. They may not have the proper tools or skills, leading to damage to your property and a hefty bill for subpar work.

How to Avoid It: Verify the locksmith’s credentials before hiring them. Look for certification from reputable organisations, such as the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA). Check for online reviews and testimonials from previous customers.

5. The Hidden Fees Scam

Some locksmiths add hidden fees to the final bill, such as service call fees, mileage fees, or emergency fees, without disclosing them upfront. These fees can significantly increase the cost of the service.

How to Avoid It: Ask for a detailed quote that includes all potential fees before agreeing to any work. Ensure that the locksmith explains any additional charges and gets your approval before proceeding.