FAQs
- What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Certified Locksmith Graduate of the Colorado Locksmith College. Certified Burglar Alarm installer in Denver, CO. Also, I take classes every year through Intermountain Locks, Clarks Security, and the Rocky Mountain Locksmiths' Association. Other training is done through special classes offered in my industry and the Society of Professional Locksmiths.
- What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?
For a locksmith you should definitely verify a state business license first. Lack of a business license implies a fly by night company with no liability insurance, no bond, and likely little skill. Secondly, get a referral from an associate or friend. Many times people go on about the BAD service they had from a service person... but rarely do you hear about how great their experience was when they had one. Keep your ears open for positive experiences with a Locksmith service. Third, find out their rates and get an estimate over the phone. Professionals can give a fairly accurate guess to what a specific problem will cost or at least outline their pricing structure. A scum bag company will be evasive on price and try to bully you into setting an appointment. Often they will say a technician has to look at the job first.... which is never free. Many good companies do offer free estimates in person but this may depend on the type of work you are looking at. Lastly, check for memberships in trade associations and programs like the BBB. These should be taken with a grain of salt as sometimes this info is out of date. However, a good locksmith company wants to project their professional image and will spend money and time to participate in these voluntary programs. Bad Locksmith companies could care less about memberships in the Chamber of Commerce, the BBB, or local and national Locksmith Associations.
- What questions should customers think through before talking to professionals about their project?
First ask for a price. If the potential service provider immediately balks or is reticent to give you a price structure this is a sign you are about to be scammed. If they are vague or defensive this is also a bad sign. A good company that performs quality services will not be hesitant to give you a quote or estimate over the phone. A range of pricing is normal as they may be unsure what labor is to be performed before they get there. Truly a firm price is best, but not every service is conducive to this unless it is a simple or straight forward service to be performed. Also, check to see the business is registered with the state on the Secretary of State Website for Colorado. Ask if they are insured, bonded, certified, licensed for the services they offer. A professional Locksmith will be very proud to offer you their accreditation's whereas a non-pro will come up with excuses like it is not needed or that it is a waste of time, etc. Other things to think about before a project of course is your budget, and timeline for the project.