Unwitting consumers are not aware of an epidemic sweeping the country, one taking advantage of those who need a locksmith. Instead of being a reputable and local locksmith in Columbia, MD, scam artists may have a fake phone number located in a call center far from the city.

They also may charge far more than necessary. How much more?

A lock which would cost a local locksmith in Columbia, MD only $100 to open could cost as much as $800 or more when a scam artist preys on customers.. Unfortunately, scam artists can hurt the reputation of good locksmiths. This is why it is vital for you to find a local locksmith long before an emergency such as being locked out of the car or house, occurs in Maryland.

Every day an average of 250,000 people call locksmiths. If they know how to find a local locksmith in Columbia, MD, they can save themselves from suffering a major blow to their finances. They can also prevent a possible break-in or other issue. Only reputable and nearby companies can provide the peace of mind clients need.

So how can potential customers like you make sure a reputable local locksmith in Columbia, MD is reached? First of all, you need to realize that not all locksmiths listed in the phone book are local.

Just because the locksmith company is in an area phone book, it does not mean that it is locally based. In fact, many of the so-called locksmiths have phone numbers that go to a call center far from Maryland. This is one warning sign.

Again, it is important to find the right locksmith in Columbia, MD before you actually need one. So do some detective work on ahead of time. Check with the Better Business Bureau but be aware that phony locksmiths often change their company name so complaints may not yet be noted.

Next, call a potential locksmith on the phone and be wary of any that will not use a company name. Some simply say, "Locksmith". But genuine and trustworthy locksmiths are often proud of their services and company history.

They use their name with pride. Ask for an estimate and consider it a warning sign if the answer is vague or the person refuses to come up with a price range. Of course, you will want to call around to other locksmiths to get an idea of potential prices.

Ask about costs for specific services. These can include being locked out of your home. Or you might want to mention that you have left your keys in your car. Again, a reputable locksmith in Columbia, MD will be able to give a possible cost and may even ask for the make and model of your car.

Be sure the phone number and address match and that the location is legitimate. It is worth driving by the address and making sure it is not an empty lot or closed storefront.

Make sure the locksmith will give a written estimate. If not, look elsewhere. No locksmith should have you sign any blank papers for possible charges before work is done.

If you are in an emergency situation and do not have time to find a locksmith ahead of time, look for specific signs of a scam artist. Always ask for identification and be aware that you may have to provide identification as well. This only makes sense because a good locksmith in Columbia, MD does not want to open locks that do not belong to the owner of the house or vehicle.

If you get lowball estimates given over the phone and sky high prices after the work is done, you may have been scammed. Drilling the lock may also not be necessary, particularly if a new one is put in, adding to the cost. Of course, once you have found a company you trust, stick with them. There are simply too many others who will take advantage of you or are not based locally.