In order to protect themselves from dubious machinations when hiring a locksmith, consumers must select the service provider carefully.
When the door slams shut and the key is forgotten in the apartment, the realization usually comes quickly: you have locked yourself out. The only way to gain access to your own four walls is through a locksmith.
The risk of falling into the cost trap with these service providers is particularly high when you are under time pressure. Unfortunately, many dubious providers shamelessly exploit the plight of their customers. The result is completely exaggerated bills. Below is a summary of how to reliably protect yourself from fraudulent rip-offs.
Check contact details
The first step to unmasking dubious service providers is to carefully check the contact details. For example, supposed key services that secure the top positions in telephone books with the addition “AAA.” should be avoided completely. This is a clear indication of dubious providers. This usually has nothing to do with fair service. 0800 area codes should also be viewed critically since commissions flow through call centers for the switching of callers, which the customer ultimately pays.
Calling the information desk is not a good choice either. Instead, it is advisable to research local service providers with a short journey. This saves time and the chance of finding a reputable and competent specialist is significantly higher. The websites of the locksmiths are also a good help to identify decent companies. The first glance should wander to the imprint.
If all necessary information such as address and company is stored, this already indicates seriousness. The same applies to reference to membership in a professional association. In addition, it is advantageous to select a service provider with fixed prices, as is the case on the website of the service provider for Frankfurt and Sachsenhausen. The company explains the fixed opening prices directly on the home page so that misunderstandings about the calculation are avoided from the outset.
Useful sources for researching reputable locksmiths:
- industry association
- Local Police Department
- Regional guilds/chambers
- If there is enough time, it is advisable to call and compare several companies.
Telephone assignment
Once you have found a locksmith that inspires confidence, you place the order over the phone. First of all, it is important to clarify who the contractual partner actually is. Is it actually a regional company based locally or was the call possibly rerouted to a call center and the company is in a completely different location? Companies have to make a clear statement on the phone.
Then the total price including VAT for the required services will be requested. The latter must be clearly formulated by the customer on the phone. For example, if the door just fell shut, the door can often be opened without damage. In addition, you should specifically ask about possible surcharges, since the prices for working days, Sundays, and public holidays can vary immensely. Travel allowances can also drive up the total. In order not to experience any nasty surprises, all eventualities must be clarified. This includes the customer describing his individual case in detail. Among other things, locksmiths charge different flat rates for doors that are only pulled shut and keys left in the lock due to the greater time required.
Furthermore, the arrival time must be clarified. If the fitter is on-site much later than announced, it is advantageous if the cancellation in the event of a significant delay was threatened directly when the order was placed. Ideally, the commissioner will have a witness who can confirm the statements of both parties.
Extra savings tip for locksmiths
Due to the sometimes high surcharges for locksmith operations on weekends and public holidays as well as at night, it can be worth waiting a few hours or days and possibly staying with friends or relatives. Depending on the price scale, even a hotel room is cheaper. If there is no emergency and you do not have to go to the apartment urgently, the alternatives should be weighed up.
Order processing tips
If the fitter is on-site, clients should note the name of the specialist and check the company’s contact details for completeness. The consumer advice center has collected further practical consumer tips on opening doors in an emergency. Among other things, the guide says: “If the locksmith demands more from the start than agreed on the phone or if he comes too late, he should be sent away again. There is no entitlement to payment, not even for travel expenses if more is required for the same work than previously agreed over the phone.” If the invoice is handed over directly, a tax number and the owner of the company must be shown. Under no circumstances should consumers sign blank documents. In general, it is common for the locksmith to be paid directly. You should take your time and go through the positions calmly before handing over the cash.
Prevent demand
In order to avoid unnecessary costs from locksmiths, a spare key can be left with a person you trust in an emergency. Under no circumstances should the key be hidden in the immediate vicinity. This direct access is of course exploited by burglars and in the event of a break-in, the insurance company does not pay. In our guide to avoiding and preventing home break-ins, we have arranged practical recommendations for protection against criminals.
