How to Avoid Locksmith Scams

We’re Here to Help You Avoid Scams and Find a San Diego, CA Locksmith You Can Trust

The US locksmith industry has unfortunately become a hotspot for locksmith scam artists, and San Diego is no exception. Many of these so-called locksmiths lack proper licensing and training, and they target individuals in urgent need, charging exorbitant fees far above their initial quotes. To help you avoid these scammers, we recommend you ask for these key pieces of information before allowing any locksmith to perform services at your home or business:

1. Verify the locksmith’s licensing and insurance status BEFORE hiring them. Not all states require locksmith licensing, but California does. When Googling for a local San Diego locksmith, check each company’s website for their license and insurance info, and if you don’t see it, call them and ask them for the info. You can confirm their license on the California Department of Consumer Affairs Contractor State License Board website. This diligence ensures you’re working with a legitimate and qualified locksmith.
2. Verify prices before the job starts. Legitimate locksmiths are transparent and will give you an up-front quote AND let you know that the price can change once they assess the problem. For example, when you call us to rekey the lock on your front door, we’ll provide a ballpark quote, AND we’ll also let you know that the price can change if your lock is too old or damaged to rekey. If it’s not possible to rekey the lock, we’ll give you an in-depth explanation of why we can’t rekey it and let you know how much it’ll cost for us to replace the lock. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and ask for details!
3. When the locksmith arrives, verify their identity. A professional locksmith should arrive in a marked vehicle and present a business card. They should also explain the services they will perform and will be happy to answer any questions you have.

FAQ: How to Avoid Locksmith Scammers