Locksmith advertising claims: how to check what's true

Claims about price

A very low phone price sometimes covers only the service call. Ask for the expected total for your job, including labour, parts and any trip or after-hours fee.

Claims about arrival time

No honest locksmith can promise an exact time for every call, because it depends on traffic and jobs already in progress. A realistic estimate with updates is more trustworthy than a fixed number in an ad.

Claims about being local

Ask where the business is based and the name it trades under. Check that the van and invoice match the company you called.

Red flags

• Refusing to give a business name
• No ID check before opening your door or car
• Insisting on drilling an undamaged lock
• A price that changes significantly after arrival without explanation
• Cash-only with no receipt

Green flags

• A clear quote before work begins
• Questions about your lock or vehicle on the phone
• Proof of identity requested from you
• A written receipt

We'd rather earn your trust with clear quotes than big promises. Ask us for one.