Locksmiths are worth their weight in gold, from unlocking people who have been locked out of their homes to locking up with the placement of new locks. Not every locksmith is on the up and up, though. Unfortunately, most criminals use emergencies as an excuse to charge exorbitant prices or provide subpar service. Knowing how to spot these scams and choose a good locksmith will save you stress, money, and time.

Types of Common Locksmith Scams to Avoid

1. Bait-and-Switch Pricing

The most common scam is the one where the locksmith offers very low rates, e.g., £20 or £30 to open. But when they arrive on site, they find that the job is more complicated than anticipated and overcharge by charging £200 or more. Customers will be in a hurry and pay the higher amount.

2. Drilling the Lock Unnecessarily

A professional will try a non-destructive entry initially. Scammers may try, however, to drill on the lock even when it is not needed, just simply to make a small amount of additional money for replacement locks. And on top of that, you are also being threatened into paying a small amount of additional money to buy an additional lock from them at a cheaper price.

3. Fake or Unlicensed Locksmiths

Others are not trained or licensed. They might impersonate a valid company or make deceptive business names where they don't. Lacking professional competence, they can pick your locks, doors, or security systems and leave your property vulnerable to intruders.

4. Cash-Only Payments & No Receipts

A professional locksmith will offer a different method of payment and provide a receipt. Scammers request cash payment and do not give a receipt, which makes it hard to complain about bad service or overcharging.

5. No Business Information or Physical Address

Most scam locksmiths lack an office address. They may use generic business names and fake addresses to appear real in directory listings. If a locksmith lacks an established business address or reviews, then this is a red flag.

How to Identify a Reputable Locksmith

1. Check Reviews and Reputation

Before hiring a locksmith, check their online reviews on Google, Trust pilot, or other platforms. A reputable locksmith will have a mix of genuine positive and negative reviews, while scammers may have only glowing fake reviews or none at all.

2. Look for Certifications and Memberships

Professional locksmiths will be a member of professional bodies such as the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) in the UK. Check that they are accredited to ensure they operate to a professional standard.

3. Request Identification and Business Verification

A professional locksmith will have a business card, marked vehicle, or uniform. Request identification prior to them commencing. If they grumble, this is an indication that they are not professional.

4. Receive a Written Quote Prior to Work Commencement

Do not hire locksmiths who do not want to offer a written quote prior to work. A good locksmith will offer a precise estimate, outlining any possible additional fees beforehand.

5. Check Their Contact Details

If a locksmith gives only a mobile number and no address, be cautious. Call their office before hiring them and ensure that they answer professionally.

6. Don't Hire Locksmiths Who Ask to Drill Right Away

A good locksmith should be able to open most common locks without drilling. If they offer drilling right away, ask for an alternative. If they still insist, hire another locksmith.

What to Do If You've Been a Victim of a Locksmith Scam

If you discover that you have been scammed, don't waste time:

  • Don't overpay if the locksmith didn't perform as agreed.
  • Report the scam to local consumer protection agencies or trading standards.
  • Write an online review to warn others about your experience.
  • Ring your bank or Credit Card Company if you paid too much, as they can reverse the payment.

Swindon Locksmith scams are stressful, but with the most typical tricks and what an honest professional will do, you can feel safe. Screening locksmiths in advance, asking for identification, and getting a written estimate. If something smells fishy, don't think twice to trust your instincts and look for service somewhere else. By doing these things, you receive quality work at a fair price from a locksmith that you can rely on.