Have you ever been locked out of the house or your car? Are you having problems getting the door unlocked? This is a problem everyone has faced at some point, and it becomes necessary to call a good locksmith. To learn how to establish a good relationship with one, read further.

When you are looking to have a locksmith install a new lock, ask them to use one that has high security. These cost a bit more, but they will keep you a lot safer than traditional locks. You need to show an ID card as well as a card provided by the locksmith in order to have duplicate keys made.

Make sure that any locksmith you hire is insured and bonded. If they are missing one or the other, it would be a good idea for you to hire someone else. Being bonded will help protect you against terrible workmanship and insurance will cover any damage done to your property.

Only hire a locksmith that is bonded and has insurance. If he or she messes up on the job, you want to make sure you are protected and that you will be reimbursed for the damages. Knowing that the company has taken this type of precaution should give you peace of mind as the work on your property begins.

Do not hire the first locksmith that you talk to. Call a variety of locksmiths before you commit to choosing one. You will know what the rates are with various companies. Once you are aware of this, you can then choose the locksmith that offers a fair price.

Get a referral list before you hire anyone. Most companies will gladly give you the references you ask for, and you should actually call those references. Find out how trustworthy and reliable locksmiths are and the amount they charge for off-hours and emergencies.

Once you have hired a locksmith to come out and help you with home locks, ask them if they can give you a safety assessment. Most locksmiths do not mind walking around your property and letting you know what, if any, security measures need to be made to keep your home secure.

It is a bit scary to be locked out of your vehicle in an empty parking lot, but don’t allow a situation like this to cloud your judgement. If you call a locksmith and someone shady shows up, you should let them know that you will not be needing their services after all. Bad signs include lack of licensing, unmarked vehicles and a refusal to hand over an ID.

Beware locksmiths who answer the phone with a general phrase, such as “locksmith services”. If they don’t provide a company name or location, they may actually subcontract local locksmiths, meaning you have no control over the quality of the person who shows up. Look for a company which is local and mentions their name.

If you shop for a locksmith before you need one, you’ll be better off when something happens. This gives you time to figure out who you want to hire. Taking the extra measure will ensure that you don’t have to waste time standing out in the cold.