Changing Your Locks? Here’s What You Need To Know
By: Emma Kandrac
There are times when everyone needs a locksmith. Sometimes this involves having locks replaced, but usually when people are in need of a locksmith, it???s an emergency or time is of the essence ??? such as when keys are locked in cars or people are unable to get inside their homes. No matter how stressful the situation, Better Business Bureau reminds people they need to take the time to look after their interests and ensure they???re making good choices when hiring a locksmith.
???There are several great locksmiths, but it???s up to the consumer to do their due diligence,??? said Paula Fleming, spokesperson for BBB Serving Eastern MA, ME, RI & VT. ???Check with BBB for free Business Profiles on locksmiths before choosing one to do business with.???
In 2017, consumers inquired about locksmiths with BBB over 160,580 times; however, consumers also filed 719 complaints last year regarding the same industry. The majority of complaints filed against locksmiths involve situations where consumers allege they were quoted one price and then the final bill proved higher than expected.
???Their men replaced pieces that never needed to be replaced, didn’t tell us we didn’t need those pieces replaced until AFTER they were replaced, and blame US that THEY did not do a thorough assessment and inform their customer before doing any work,??? said one complainant in 2017. ???I’ve never been treated so disrespectfully or received such horrible work – especially for a $1,000+ price tag.???
BBB reminds local consumers that neither Massachusetts, Maine, Rhode Island nor Vermont are of the 15 states across the U.S. that require locksmiths to have a license. When looking to hire a locksmith, always ask for identification and their business card. Make sure the information on the business card matches the company name on the invoice or estimate. Also, expect the locksmith to ask you for identification to insure you???re the property owner.
BBB has these tips and additional information to keep in mind when hiring a locksmith.
For more information you can trust, visit bbb.org
About Emma Kandrac
Emma joined Better Business Bureau of Eastern MA, ME, RI & VT in 2016, serving as a Copywriter for the Communications & Marketing team in Marlborough, MA. Prior to coming on board at BBB, Emma earned her Bachelor???s in Communications with a concentration in Journalism and a minor in Biology from Westfield State University in 2016. She is passionate about the environment, human rights and social action, education and her two dogs.