Unfortunately, there are locksmith scams in and around Fort Mill SC. We have a blog on locksmith scams @ [url=http://www.lockmonkeys.com]Lock Monkeys Fort Mill Locksmith[/url]
Taking the time to read reviews on yelp and other resources. But, when people are in a bind they tend to pick the first locksmith that comes up. A few tips to protect yourself from being scammed are:
1. Are there "Starting At Pricing" quoted? Usually, a scammer states they have a $19 service call and "STARTING AT" $29 or $35. Be very careful when accepting this kind of quote. A seasoned locksmith CAN tell you what it will cost for a lockout. If you do choose a locksmith like this, it WILL COST YOU MORE MONEY, when they arrive. I have lived in Fort Mill SC my whole life, I have only come across maybe 2 or 3 locks I could not pick. And those were commercial locks.
2. Ask for ID! Check out the address they say they are at. Does their vehicle state who they are? If it does, can the locksmith prove they are who they say they are. Look for ALOA ID card, NLA, NCLLA ID.
3. When you called, was it a dispatch center? Since Google now provides a local number for free, these misleading numbers can be forwarded to a out-of-country or out-of-state dispatch company. Who trained some guy/lady for one day to unlock a car or drill out a house lock, or, check this out... force your house door open with a airbag! If they quote you more for the lockout when they get there, ask them why. Then call a real locksmith.
Quote:
“Consumers think they’re calling a reputable locksmith and they’re quoted a price that seems very reasonable,” says Claire Rosenzweig, President and CEO of the BBB of Metropolitan New York. “Then these people show up and charge more than you expected.”
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4. Just because you are frustrated, don't settle for a price thats too high. Depending on the time of day, a car lockout normal rate is between $65 & $85. A house lockout is normally between $75 and $100, for one lock. Our locksmiths usually work with you on that price.
5. IF A LOCKSMITH DOES NOT ASK FOR YOUR ID, upon arriving at your house or car. It is against the law to open anything that is locked that the customer has not verified they are the owner. AND ALWAYS sign a invoice BEFORE work is started! That way the price cannot be changed on you in the end.
Lastly, if you feel you have been scammed, call Lock Monkeys @ 803-636-6337. We will help you with the steps needed to file a complaint and report them to NCLLA, NLA, & ALOA scam department.
The only one that keep you from being scammed is you. Don't allow yourself to become a victim.