What to Discuss With a Mobile Locksmith When You Call
When you've been locked out of your house or car, it's best to call a mobile locksmith rather than try to get back in on your own. Forcing a lock can mean damaging it beyond repair, breaking a car window, splintering a home's window frame or door frame, or causing other property damage. When you do call a mobile locksmith, note a few questions to ask and things to discuss while you're still on the phone so you know you're hiring the right professional and know what's involved with their services.
Ask about payment methods
Most mobile locksmiths will accept credit cards, but some might only take cash, and very few will take a personal check. If you do have a credit card, be sure you ask if they accept that particular type; Visa and MasterCard are usually fine, but American Express, Diner's Club, a PayPal debit card, and other cards may not be acceptable. Remember that a mobile locksmith will often be using a mobile means of collecting payment, typically a credit card swipe on their cell phone. The program used for this may not accept anything but major credit cards, so always ask.
Tell them if you've tried to open the lock already
If you tried to open the lock yourself, you may have caused damage that the locksmith will need to know about; this is especially true if something is wedged in the lock that you now can't get out, such as a coat hanger or screwdriver. If you know you've broken the lock, tell them as well so they can ensure they bring the right tools for actually removing the lock entirely and replacing it rather than just trying to open it.
Tell them about any lock upgrades you've made
If you've added an extra alarm to your car or home, have a fingerprint scanner on either your home or car, or have upgraded the locks in any way, a mobile locksmith needs to keno this. They may be expecting the standard lock for your make and model of car or a standard home deadbolt and nothing more; upgraded or different types of locks may require different tools to open, and a different type of key to be made for you if you need new keys made. Don't assume that a locksmith arrives armed with all the tools needed for every type of lock, but always inform them of anything upgraded, heavy-duty, or modified in any way before they leave their shop.
For more information, see a website such as http://www.rivercitylocksmiths.com.au.