Search for a locksmith and every result claims to be top of the list. Those slogans tell you very little. These are the things that genuinely separate a trustworthy locksmith from a risky one.
1. A licence you can check
In California, locksmith companies and their employees must be licensed by the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS). Ask for the licence number and look it up on the state's licence search before you hire.
2. A price before work starts
A professional will ask about the lock and situation and give you a quote. Be wary of very low phone prices that rise once the technician arrives, or anyone who refuses to give a figure at all.
3. Identification on arrival
The technician should identify themselves and their company, and should ask you for proof of residence or ownership before opening a door or making a key.
4. Real reviews
Look for reviews on independent platforms, read the negative ones as well as the positive, and see how the business responds.
5. A real local presence
A business with a consistent name, phone number and location is more accountable than a generic listing that forwards calls to whoever is free.
Red flags
- Drilling a standard lock before trying non-destructive entry
- Pressure to buy expensive upgrades on the spot
- Unmarked vehicles and no identification
- No written invoice
We quote before we start and explain every option. Contact us to ask anything before you book.
Need help now? Call 310-765-9488 for a quote before any work starts.
