Are you locked out of your house or worried about your home’s safety in Olympia, WA? It’s important to be careful and avoid falling for a scam from a locksmith. Here are some common scams to watch out for:
Finding the Best Locksmith
Many businesses claim to be the best locksmith in Olympia WA. But be cautious! If a locksmith arrives in an unmarked vehicle and doesn’t show you their identification, they might not be trustworthy. Always make sure they’re licensed under the Locksmiths Licensing Act and ask to see their ID card with their name, license number, expiration date, and signature before they start working. Using a fake or unlicensed locksmith can lead to poor service and even put your home security at risk.
Unexpected Invoices
If a locksmith gives you a quote for their work, that’s the amount you should pay. If they suddenly present a bill that’s much higher and can’t explain why, you might be dealing with a scam. This is especially suspicious if the invoice isn’t itemized, or if the locksmith becomes aggressive when you question it. If you feel threatened, quietly call for help.
Protecting Your Credit Card
Some scammers impersonate locksmiths to access your property or steal your credit card information. They might collect your credit card details for payment and then use them without your permission. If this happens, notify your bank’s fraud department immediately to protect your money.
Unnecessary Damage
Beware of locksmiths who remove locks that could be repaired or intentionally damage your security system to make you pay for replacements. Both of these actions are illegal, and forcing you to pay for unnecessary work is fraudulent.
Broken Card Machine
If a locksmith claims their card machine is broken when it’s time to pay, suggest paying by bank transfer instead. Be suspicious if they insist on cash payment. Cash payments offer no protection if the work is subpar and needs fixing or if the lock they installed is of low quality.
Allowing a stranger into your home requires trust, so it’s vital to be cautious and check a locksmith’s credentials, business address, and reviews before contacting them. If you ever feel uncertain or pressured, don’t hesitate to reach out to a friend, family member, or the police for support. Your safety and security should always come first.