Using a trusted locksmith
When you find yourself locked out of your home or with a security issue at your property, you’ll want to have it resolved as quickly as possible. For many, that means jumping online to search for a local locksmith and contacting them immediately. But some homeowners in Kent have found that this approach has landed them with a substandard repair and an extortionate bill, which only adds to their stress.
At Absolute Security Locksmiths, we believe that being able to find a trusted locksmith quickly when you need one shouldn’t be a challenge. In this guide, we outline how to spot a rogue locksmith, what to look for when searching for a locksmith online, and what the benefits are of choosing a trusted locksmith provider.
How to spot a rogue locksmith
It’s a dark evening in winter and you’ve just realised you’re locked out of your house. With no neighbours or nearby relatives to call on for help, you hop online to search “local locksmith Ashford”. A number of results appear – but how do you know if you’re likely to be scammed? Here are the red flags to watch out for:
- Cheap pricing
While you don’t want to overpay for a locksmith service, providers with a very low advertised price (often starting from less than £50) are often not to be trusted. Rogue traders tend to quote a low fee and then add hidden extras, such as an ‘emergency’ fee. They may also add a huge markup on products to justify their invoice. When you call, be sure to ask for a quote before agreeing to a service – a genuine locksmith will base their quote on the details you provide.
- Poor reviews or no reviews at all
Even when you’re feeling a little panicked, it’s worth taking a moment to verify some details before selecting a locksmith service to rely on. Google the name of the locksmith you’re thinking of using with the word ‘reviews’ after it. If there are no reviews or several poor reviews, it’s a sign something may be amiss. Instead, look for providers with good reviews, preferably where customers name the team member who came out.
- Call centre contact
If you’ve made the decision to call, check whether the number is local or an 0800 number. Local numbers are more likely to direct you to local traders. If you think you may be speaking to a call centre agent, be wary and ask whether they are using a subcontractor, and if so what their name is.
- High-pressure sales tactics
If the locksmith is vague on pricing or tries to persuade you to invest in work or products that you don’t feel are necessary, be aware that you could be speaking to a rogue trader. Instead of accepting, say that you’ll get another quote and call back.
- Locksmith attempts to drill your lock
A skilled locksmith will always attempt to resolve the issue with a non-destructive method first. Most will only use drilling as a last resort, so if the person who turns up reaches for a drill without attempting anything else, you could be getting scammed.
Real-life examples
In April 2024, KentOnline reported on an Ashford pensioner who was charged £1,600 for a job that other locksmiths quoted at £285 or under. In the article, many red flags were reported, such as a London phone number, poor reviews and the contractor drilling the lock before attempting other, non-destructive methods. Often the work is also of a poor quality, requiring the intervention of a genuine local locksmith.
Benefits of choosing a trusted locksmith
There are many advantages to choosing a trusted locksmith in Folkestone, Dover, Deal and the surrounding areas.
- Transparent pricing
A genuine locksmith will provide a quote based on the work that needs doing. It may be more than advertised by other traders on Google, but you can rest assured there are no hidden fees.
- Experienced professionals
By choosing a trusted locksmith you’ll benefit from an experienced professional handling the job, rather than an unknown subcontractor. Those who specialise in a range of lock and security solutions such as eviction locksmithing, lock refurbishment and UPVC repairs will have the expertise to provide a fairly priced and reliable solution.
- Fast, reliable service
Locksmiths with a physical location in the area can be trusted to arrive promptly, especially if the situation is urgent. If, for example, you want to avoid rogue locksmiths in Hythe, check the provider’s website to be sure they have an address that’s nearby.
What to look for when choosing a locksmith
If you’re in a hurry to find a reliable locksmith in Deal, Dover or the Kent area, be sure to check the following to ensure the company you choose is trustworthy.
- Local contact details – Check that the locksmith has a local phone number or physical address.
- Good reviews – Look for businesses with verified positive reviews that, preferably, name team members.
- Transparent pricing – A trusted locksmith will be able to provide a detailed quote. Don’t accept vagary around pricing without getting a second quote from another provider.
Why choose Absolute Security Locksmiths?
Here at Absolute Security Locksmiths, we’re proud of our experience and expertise. As a family run business that began in 2005, we have helped hundreds of clients in Folkestone, Dover, Deal, Hythe, Hawkinge and Ashford.
Whether you’re choosing a locksmith in Hawkinge to help with a scheduled repair or need emergency locksmith Dover advice, we’re ready to help. We also specialise in UPVC repairs, lock refurbishment and eviction locksmithing for both residential and commercial properties. Our team will be happy to give you a quote or assist with 24/7 emergency callouts. We do not charge a callout fee.
Secure your property with confidence
No matter how urgent the situation, it pays to remain calm and choose a locksmith with the right experience for your needs. Beware of adverts offering cheap pricing, companies with poor reviews (or no reviews at all) and national call centres. Instead, look for a provider with local details, the proper accreditation and the ability to offer a clear, detailed quote.
If you’re looking for a trusted locksmith in Folkestone and the surrounding area, contact Absolute Security Locksmiths. We’ll be happy to provide a free quote for any job or assist you in a security emergency.