We all understand the sudden feeling of regret when we lock ourselves out of our home accidentally, and there is no other way to get back in. But at that particular moment, you don’t need to fret, keeping in mind that a locksmith will save the day.
So, once you have called a locksmith, this is what usually happens: The locksmith company, or an individual registered locksmith, will proceed by asking you for your address where you’re currently locked out and the details regarding the issue with the lock or key first. An assigned technician/locksmith will be nearby and can call to confirm the arrival time and obtain any additional information that is required. This is usually it.
Once the call has ended, you must remain calm and wait for the locksmith to arrive. In case it is too late or you are not safe, the company will assist you on how to remain safe until somebody arrives to assist you.
Oftentimes, the locksmith arrives within 15-30 minutes (in the city), so it’s best to call asap even if you have other plans to break into your home safely.
What Happens when the Locksmith Arrives
The locksmith will likely arrive with his marked service car. Most locksmiths have their company names displayed on their cars or vans. That is a positive indicator of a true professional. The locksmith will be there at the door, they will greet you kindly, and they will ask a few questions.
· Check Locksmith’s Identification
It is always cautious to check who is at your door before you begin work. The locksmith is required to show you his name badge or ID, and by law in some states, the locksmith is required to show you his license number.
An honest locksmith will not object to showing this. The locksmith, in his turn, will also insist on seeing your ID or any proof of your living there.
Just in case you are not the actual house owner, inform them immediately and present them with an ID that they can use to establish that you are allowed to be in the owner’s house.
· The Locksmith Inspects the Issue
After the ID verification, the locksmith will start his job by inspecting the lock and door. They will tell you what has to be done and provide you with an assessment and service charge based on their assessment.
It is typical for locksmiths to explain the cost up front and then begin working. This will require you to sign a straightforward agreement or work order where you agree to the price and services. This way, there are no surprises on the final bill.
· The Locksmith will start their Job.
Under these circumstances, everything looks fine, and you approve to begin the actual work. The locksmith will try the least destructive method first. Mostly, they will use their tools to lock up and unlock without causing any harm to the door. Picking a lock refers to the manipulation of a lock in the open position by the use of a small number of metallic tools (such as picks and a tension wrench). This tends to make door opening fast and easy, and leaves the door lock intact.
· Make Sure Locksmiths are Performing the Tasks Professionally
In most cases, the locksmith will open the door with special tools (lock picks, bump keys, tension wrenches, etc.) without damaging the lock. There are some extreme instances when picking it open is impossible (like when the lock is extremely damaged or stuck), and they might have to drill it or replace the lock cylinder.
To date, a good locksmith will drill as a last resort and will repair or replace any damage that they do in the process.
· Cooperate with the Locksmith While Observing the Tasks He is Performing.
In this job, you can stand close by and observe (at a safe distance) or get the locksmith to demonstrate what he is about. Professional locksmiths are generally very fast and can unlock a simple door in under half an hour, although difficult work may require extended periods. They must take care not to scratch or dent your door or frame.
After they have the door open, they will try testing the door lock and all keys to ensure everything is functioning correctly.
Keynotes of What a Locksmith Does After Arrival
- The locksmith typically follows these steps:
- Getting to know you and checking your IDs,
- Getting a look at the lock to diagnose the issue,
- Explaining what they’re going to do instead (if the lock is locked, they can pick it, rekey it, or replace it), doing the job, and then testing the lock.
- Finally, they will show you the working lock and give you any new keys they have made.
Each step takes around 5 minutes, and if you have any questions about the process, feel free to ask them.
What Happens When the Locksmith Completes their Job
Once you’re back inside, the locksmith will often provide you with some tips or options. If your lock appears worn or broken, they may suggest having it rekeyed or replaced in case a problem arises again. Rekeying involves changing the key of an existing lock to a new one, so that the old key, which has been lost or stolen, will no longer work.
Rekeying is a common security measure taken as a precaution when the old key is suspected to have been lost or stolen. This is an optional service; therefore, you should use this service if you are willing.
If your door or frame incurs damage in any way, a good locksmith will repair it or point you in the right direction for repairs. They may even offer to make duplicate keys for you, too (some may even be lazy enough and give you away one or two at the door, if a key-cutting machine is used in their van).
Payment and Departure
When the job is done, ensuring the lock is working again, it’s time to ‘settle up.’ The locksmith will give you an invoice for the service call fee and additional charges (if they replaced the lock). You will pay them directly. Many locksmiths accept either cash, credit, or debit cards. Make sure you get a receipt.
The locksmith will say goodbye and walk away after payment has been made. And that’s pretty much the end of the hassle.
Tips and Reminders when Hiring a Locksmith
Always hire a Trusted locksmith. Check reviews or ask your friends for recommendations before you need one.
When you call the locksmith, avoid being vague about your situation. (what door, what type of lock, any keys broken inside). This will give them a chance to come prepared.
It’s best to leave your phone on so that the locksmith can contact you if they have any issues notifying you about their arrival.
After the visit, you can make spare keys or install a keypad lock to prevent yourself from getting locked out again in the future.
Conclusion
By following this walkthrough, you can be confident about the locksmith process. Remember, professional locksmiths come in marked vehicles and adhere to safety rules such as verifying identity and causing the least possible damage.
They will work efficiently to get you back in your home, and you will pay once the job is done.