When it comes to safeguarding your home, locksmithing plays an important. However, the truth is, like every other industry, the locksmith industry is not immune to scams. There are unscrupulous companies out there who engage in locksmith scams. The internet is full of horror stories of homeowners being scammed by fraud services.
Here, we are going to list the top things to look out for in locksmith service in Jacksonville to avoid being scammed.
- Excessive Targeted Advertising
If you are bombarded with ads, particularly on your social media feeds for a local emergency locksmith, you can assume it’s a scam. Scammers spend loads of money on advertisements targeted to homeowners in specific areas. They post very frequently on social media platforms providing locksmith services at very cheap prices.
- Vague Answers to Your Queries
If you call the number mentioned on the website of the locksmith service and the person on the other end of the phone gives you vague answers, steer clear of the company. Often, they will be asked about your exact address and contact details before the questions are answered. But when you ask them about the quote, they give a vague response. These services usually fail to mention that it is only a service call and that the real cost of the services will be much higher. A trustworthy locksmith service will always mention the price upfront and be straightforward when asked about the pricing.
- No Proper Physical Address on the Website
A reliable house locksmith service will have their physical address on their official website. However, scammers, often, don’t have a physical address. At times, they also have a fake address from a remote area and nowhere close to your home.
Search for a locksmith with a physical shop. It means you can visit the shop and talk to someone if something goes wrong. A physical address gives you the peace of mind that the residential service is within your reach if you need it.
- No Testimonials or Reviews on the Website
Reputable affordable residential locksmith services understand that testimonials and reviews from satisfied customers are crucial. However, scammers often don’t have these on their official sites. Even if they do, they have fake reviews that do not lead to real people or profiles.
- Website Address is Generic
Instead of a branded website address with the name of the company, you will find a very generic address like ‘locksmith company’ or ‘locksmith Jacksonville’. It should ring your bells immediately and you should start searching for some other residential locksmith service.
- Company with No Name
Avoid locksmith companies that don’t have a specific name. If they do not have a legal name for their business, consider it as a red flag. Also, if you come across a locksmith with a local address, search for the address online. Check if any other businesses use the same address. When you call, make sure that you confirm the location.
- Insisting on Replacing or Drilling the Lock
In case you are locked out of your house, be careful of locksmiths who insist on replacing or drilling your lock. Most expert and experienced residential locksmiths have the tools and skills to unlock almost any door. You always have the option to replace or rekey the lock. Remember, drilling is only necessary if you have to open high-security locks.
- Issuing High-Priced Invoice
If you decide to continue with the service after a failed attempt to unlock your door, you will be presented with an invoice of an insane amount that you have to pay upfront. Also, you will find that the invoice won’t have company details or an official address.
Look for a locksmith who is transparent about their pricing from the very beginning. Sure, things might change when your residential locksmith notices the issue and what work it needs. But when that happens, a reputable locksmith must be able to give you an in-depth explanation of what changed the pricing. Before you let them start the work, get a detailed price breakdown and make them note the changes that arise.
Conclusion
It is essential to be aware of these common scams to ensure you do not fall prey to them. Stay empowered and informed to make the right choice and secure your property.
