You may have heard versions of scam artists tricking homeowners into paying more for what they need. These have existed since the beginning of business. Locksmith scams are tricky considering they are a specialized service that many don’t know the inner workings of. They could be saying one thing but mean another thing. With that unfair power dynamic, you are at risk of falling for their tricks. We’re here to change that.
Some common locksmith scams include giving fraud quote prices, pretending to be a local business, only accepting cash, and unnecessary lock replacement.
It can feel convincing at the moment, but once you understand the trends, you can spot it from a mile away. Ask the right questions, listen for certain turns of phrase, and never accept an offer you don’t feel comfortable with.
A proper locksmith, like Action Locksmith, knows their community like the back of their hand. We understand the specialized vocabulary that comes with being a professional locksmith. So, let’s put those frauds in their place by highlighting the common scams in more detail.
Fraud Quote Prices
A fraud quote price is often different than the one initially agreed upon. Typically, a licensed or professional locksmith will give you a quote ahead of time but update you with any changes before the next leg of the work begins. A scam artist might try to complicate your situation by luring you with a low price (sometimes as low as $15), and then attempt to gaslight you with a new, inflated price. Get a written estimate if possible. That way you can call it off immediately if it’s out of your ballpark.
Pretending to be a Local Business
This one is truly devious. Some fake locksmiths will attempt to set up a local business front that looks legit enough. Typically, they don’t invest that much into their branding; they aim for a simplistic, straightforward look. You should see if they have a physical location before you book locksmith services. If the building looks sketchy, it might be a giveaway. Ask for reviews if they don’t have them publicly posted. As well, investigate if the business has been in operation for at least a couple of years. If not, then all these signs together point to a scam.
Cash Only
Cash-only businesses are rare these days. A select few mom-and-pop restaurants might operate this way, but a professional locksmith usually will not. It is an IRS red flag. They might be trying to commit tax evasion, offshoring funds elsewhere. What we are saying is locksmithing could only be one aspect of their business. It could have hands in many different cookie jars.
Unnecessary Lock Replacement
Total lock replacement is usually a last resort meant for high-security projects. If they ask to drill your lock, this is usually to tack on an additional cost meant to get you to purchase a new replacement lock. Rekeying the lock will always be cheaper, and it is usually the common suggestion amongst professional locksmiths.
Action Locksmith is Michigan’s local, family-owned locksmith company. Our experienced locksmiths’ extensive abilities are unlike anything you’ll get in the area. Although what we do can feel like magic, there are no tricks or hidden fees associated with our brand. Locksmithing is a service, and we’re all about demonstrating exceptionalism through our actions rather than our words. Take it from us firsthand. If you need one of our many locksmith services, give us a call today.