Locked out! How to recognise respectable locksmith services

Have you ever locked yourself out?

Our checklist will help you find a respectable locksmith service.

Locked out without a key

Stay calm and do not react rashly.
Is there a spare or emergency key somewhere? E.g. acquaintances, relatives, roommates, building manager.
Is there any other way to get into your private premises?

Finding a respectable locksmith service

Many dormakaba partners offer locksmith services. Here you will find a dormakaba partner near you.
Contact the police. Many police stations keep a list of respectable locksmith services.
Look for local locksmith services on the internet.
- Caution: the top search results are not necessarily locksmith services near you.
- Taking a look at the provider’s about us section will usually tell you where the firm is located.
- Look for reviews of the locksmith service on the internet. This can be very revealing.
Respectable locksmith services generally do not use 0800 or 0900 telephone numbers.
Be sceptical if the provider does not speak the local language on the phone.
Ask for the exact name of the company on the phone.
- Dubious locksmith services usually tell you merely “contractor service”, “locksmith service” etc.
Look for a price list on the provider’s website.
Price
- Every respectable locksmith service will inform you on the phone of the costs you can expect.
- Even though prices will vary, you should question conspicuously high rates.
- There are surcharges for service calls outside of office hours.

The locksmith service at your location

A respectable locksmith will ask you for identification.
Be sceptical if the locksmith wants to drill out your lock immediately. This is not necessary in most cases and will cause additional charges.
Do not pay on site, but ask for an invoice.

After using the locksmith’s service

Report the loss of the key to your landlord or the police. That way, the safety of the building can be maintained.
You can ask for an itemised invoice for the service.

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