7 Questions to Ask a Locksmith Before They Head Your Way

By Locksmith.contact · Published 2025-06-19 · Updated 2026-09-19

Before a locksmith is dispatched, confirm the business, full price, additional fees, proposed work, insurance, invoice and arrival estimate. Save the answers in a message or written estimate so you and the provider agree on the same job.

1. Which business will do the work?

Ask for the name on the invoice and a callback number. A dispatcher or referral service may arrange the contact; identify the independent provider before committing. Check applicable licensing separately using our licensing verification guide.

2. What is the full estimate for this job?

Describe the lock or vehicle and your location. Ask for the visit, labor and parts total and the conditions that could change it. A starting fee is not a complete estimate.

3. What additional charges might apply?

Ask about nights, weekends, travel, diagnosis, taxes and cancellation. Confirm what is payable if no work is completed. No single surcharge or multiplier applies to all providers.

4. What work are you proposing?

Ask whether the initial plan is opening, repair, rekeying or replacement. If destructive work becomes necessary, request the explanation and revised price before authorizing it.

5. What insurance and warranty apply?

Ask for evidence of applicable insurance and the process for reporting damage. An insurance certificate does not guarantee that every possible loss is covered. Get the provider's workmanship and parts terms in writing.

6. Will the invoice identify the work?

Request the business name, date, parts, labor and payment record. Keep the quote and correspondence with it. The FTC advises written estimates in its consumer guidance on hiring for home improvements.

7. What is the current arrival estimate?

Provide the exact location and ask who to contact if the estimate changes. Availability is specific to the provider and job. A request sent through Locksmith.contact is not a confirmed booking. Read how to check after-hours availability if the job cannot wait.

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