Hiring a mobile locksmith: a short checklist
A mobile locksmith comes to the lock instead of the other way round. Handy, sometimes essential. Here is how to hire one well.
Why mobile matters here
Locks fail in awkward places: a carport off Oxnard, a third-floor walk-up, a shop with customers waiting. A mobile locksmith carries key machines and programmers in the vehicle, so the job happens where the problem is. For cars that can mean no tow at all.
Ask these on the phone
- What will my job cost, or what is the range?
- Are parts, travel or late-call charges on top?
- Which payment methods do you take?
- What ID should I have ready?
- Who is coming, and will they show ID?
Warning signs
Be careful with anyone who refuses to give any price on the phone, answers with a generic greeting and no business name, or wants to drill the lock before trying anything else. Drilling has its place. Most lockouts do not need it.
A big jump in price on arrival with no clear reason is another. You can say no and call someone else.
When the job is done
Ask for an itemised receipt showing the business name and phone number. If locks were rekeyed, try every new key in every door while the locksmith is still there.
Locally
Express Lock & Key Store dispatches mobile service from North Hollywood, CA 91605 across the North Hollywood ZIP codes. Call 818-746-9061 and ask every question on this list before agreeing to the work.