There are a lot of locksmiths in the country. According to IBISWorld, there are 24,500 locksmiths in the United States. It's great to have a lot of options because it's so common for people to lose their keys, lock themself out of their car, or need to change their locks. Are you considering working with a locksmith? Before you hire a local locksmith company, here are several questions that you should ask:

Do You Offer Emergency Service?

The last thing you want after you've locked yourself out is being forced to wait overnight to get back inside. A local locksmith company should offer emergency services to get you back in where you need to be. Emergencies could happen at any moment, so it's expected that great locksmiths provide services beyond the standard business day.

What Kind of Services Do You Offer?

You want to be able to work with the same locksmiths for a number of services. They should be able to do everything from unlocking cars to home lockouts and changing your business locks. Ask them if they provide the service that you need. When you find a contractor that you like, no matter the industry, it's always a benefit if you can call on them for repeat services.

What's Your Price?

You want to be certain about what you're going to be paying for. The last thing you want is to have hidden fees tacked onto your invoice. A reputable locksmith company will be able to explain everything that they will be doing and why they are charging what they are. That way, you'll feel confident that you can budget what you need. Make sure to receive a detailed estimate before proceeding.

It's a good idea to research when you don't need to have a locksmith right there at the moment. That way, should an emergency arise, you won't succumb to panic. Preparing beforehand can eliminate a ton of stress for your future self and you'll be setting yourself up to have a much better experience.

Are you looking for a local locksmith company? Here at The LOCK Shop, we offer both residential and commercial services, including installation, replacement, repair, and maintenance. We're open with emergency services 23 hours per day, seven days a week. Contact us today to learn more if you have questions.