Did you know there are roughly 16,000 car and home lockouts in the US each day? The scenario is more common than you think. You’re running late for work, close the door behind you, and realize your keys are inside. If this sounds like something you’ve experienced, you’re probably wondering about the cost of home lockout service in Georgetown.
But there are other reasons you’d want to invest in a home lockout service, such as upgrading existing locks for better home protection and security. In the US, a breaking happens about every 26 seconds. Upgrading your locks is one way of preventing this from happening.
So what do you do if you’re locked out of your home and don’t have a spare key? That’s when you call a lockout service in Georgetown. This article breaks down the cost of a home lockout service should you find yourself in a jam.
What Does a Locksmith Do?
Locksmiths are tradesmen who repair, replace, and adjust locks for residences, commercial buildings, and automobiles. They also consult on security systems.
Locksmiths can duplicate and fabricate any type of locking key as well as change lock combinations. They can even bypass locks if requested and authorized.
Since locksmiths are well-equipped in repairing and installing conventional security hardware, they can work in commercial, industrial, and residential settings that require various levels of security.
They can cut all different types of keys and repair, open, install, and supply various types of vaults and security safes. Locksmiths can also replace or repair damaged parts of entrance and exit doors, as well as door hinges.
If you move and need new locks (something that’s highly recommended), locksmiths are who you should call. They can also create duplicate keys so you have spars in case you lose a set.
Cost of Home Lockout Service in Georgetown
The standard service call fee for a lockout service is $29, but rest assured that Georgetown Locksmith Pros has zero hidden fees, so you know what you’re paying for ahead of time.
Your total cost will depend on the type of lock you install, its security level and how difficult it is to install, and labor. If you need additional keys made, that will also affect the price.
The initial $29 isn’t deducted from the price- this service call fee is added to your overall cost for a Georgetown lockout service. When you call, dispatch will give you an estimate but until a technician arrives, they can’t guarantee the price since every job is unique and situations vary.
Additionally, if you’re located outside of the main service area, there may be an extra $29 service fee for travel.
What Affects the Cost?
While a home lockout service in Georgetown has flat service rates, other contributing factors affect the cost. Here’s what you can expect to pay more for.
Service Required
The amount of service and the skillset required will play a role in your overall cost. If you need a jammed lock opened, you can expect the cost to be less than having a completely new electronic door lock installed on your property.
While your locksmith is helping you with your home lockout, you may find they need to cut additional keys, increasing your total price. The length of time it takes to complete the repair will also determine the cost.
Rekeying a lock typically take 15 minutes or so. Replacing a lock can take roughly 40 minutes. Electronic lock installation can take anywhere from 20 to 30 minutes.
Lock Type
The type of lock you purchase determines the price you pay. Complex locks take longer to install than simple locks and cost more to purchase. Since there are countless locks available for installation, your locksmith will determine the cost based on the skill and time they have to invest.
You’ll find price variations between high-security locks, interchangeable core cylinder locks, and ad mortise locks. Your estimate depends on the type of lock you choose.
Location
As previously mentioned, jobs outside a certain service area may incur an additional expense. Since locksmiths tend to have a flat rate they charge, anything additional (such as travel) is tacked onto the price.
Time of Day
Locksmiths may charge the same rate regardless of the time of day or day of the week you call them to your home, but this isn’t always the case. If you hire a locksmith outside of their normal business hours, you may pay an additional fee for emergency services.
Days and times outside of typical business hours are typically weekends, holidays, and nights.
Why Call a Locksmith?
If you’re wondering why you might need a locksmith in Georgetown, there are several reasons. Let’s take a look.
Professional
First, locksmiths are professionals that know how to help you gain access to your house without damaging your door or entryway. They can break a damaged lock without causing harm to the structure of your door or surrounding wood trim.
If you want to know the average cost of replacing door casings, it’s best to call a professional locksmith like Georgetown Locksmith Pros.
Replace Lost Keys
If you’ve lost your keys, you run the risk of the wrong person finding them. The same is true if someone stole your keys.
A locksmith can re-key your locks so old keys no longer work. They can also replace your locks altogether and give you brand-new keys.
Moving
Did you know the average American moves 11.7 times? When moving to a new house, it’s best to change your lock for safety purposes. While homes sit on the market, countless people have access to them, and you have no way of knowing who still has copies of your house keys.
Everyone from your builder to the realtor to maintenance technicians can have copies of your keys, so work with a locksmith to re-key your locks or replace them altogether.
The same is true for moving to an apartment, as previous tenants probably have a copy of your key. There are 2.5 million annual burglaries in the US- do everything to prevent your home from becoming a statistic.
Broken Keys
If your key breaks inside your lock, a locksmith can replace the key or change your locks if necessary. You can also have a locksmith replace your keys as they undergo wear and tear, working to prevent them from breaking in the first place.
For key extractions, you may pay anywhere from $70 to $200.
Home Security
If you’re looking to upgrade your home security, a locksmith can help you install a smart lock, for example. You can even connect smart locks to your home’s security service.
Forgot Your Combination
Did you forget your digital lock’s combination? Then contact a professional lockout service. They can help you reset and recode your electronic lock.
What to Look For in a Locksmith
No matter where you live, you should always have the number of a professional locksmith on hand in case of an emergency. Whether you lock yourself out of your home or car or simply want to upgrade your home’s security system, locksmith’s always come in handy.
Here’s what to look for when hiring a locksmith in Georgetown.
Do Your Research
Check online reviews and research all available locksmiths. Georgetown Locksmith has excellent reviews and provides you with locksmith services you can trust.
You can also ask for recommendations from previous customers or check their social media pages for online reviews.
Ask Questions
Transparency is key when hiring a locksmith. Ask them for upfront pricing, even if it’s just a verbal estimate. You should also ask approximately how long they think the job will take to complete, especially if they charge an hourly rate.
Be sure to inquire about the type of payment they accept so you’re prepared when they arrive. Also, ask them to provide details or a photo of the locksmith who’ll be arriving at your home so you know the person changing your locks is legitimate. Ask to see ID.
Check to see if your locksmith offers emergency services and is available 24/7. You’ll also want to know if they conduct background checks on their employees. Inquire about the types of residential services they offer just in case you need them for something outside of rekeying a door.
Additionally, ask your locksmith if they’d conduct a home security audit, ensuring your locks are all in good working order.
ID and License
Be sure to ask your locksmith for ID and their locksmith license number, as they’re required to carry a pocket version of their license at all times. Their vehicle should also reflect the company name.
A locksmith should also ask you for ID to ensure you’re the owner/tenant of the property they’re re-keying or replacing a lock at. You can verify a locksmith’s license number online if you’re unsure. You can also research a locksmith through the Better Business Bureau.
Your locksmith should provide you with a written receipt that includes the company name, local address, and phone number.
Other Services Offered
Now that you know what a locksmith costs, it’s wise to know more about the other types of services they offer. This can help you even when you’re not home and find yourself in need of emergency locksmith services.
Let’s take a look.
Safe Installation
If you’re looking to install a safe, talk to a locksmith company to see if they have suggestions about the best options to secure your belongings. You’ll need to consider safe size, fire rating, and how well it stands up to tampering, and locksmiths are great sources of information.
You may even find a locksmith company if you’re moving and need assistance with your safe. While at your new home replacing your locks, ask them if they can bolt your safe to the floor to protect it from theft.
A locksmith can also open a safe if needed. This costs anywhere from $70 to $160, on average. However, if they need to drill into the safe, it can cost you anywhere from $225 to $375.
Window Lock Repair
Some locksmiths may be able to repair broken window locks in addition to broken door locks. This can save you from costly window repairs. Broken window locks leave your home open to theft, so have your locksmith repair window locks as soon as you spot an issue.
The average cost to repair or replace a window lock ranges from $150 to $200.
Car Locks
If you find you’ve accidentally locked your keys in your car or lost your car keys altogether, a locksmith may be able to help. Some can duplicate car keys, so be sure to ask your locksmith if this is an emergency service they offer.
A car lock replacement with a locksmith can cost anywhere from $120 to $200 on top of the initial service fee. The price ranges depending on the type of key you have and how long it takes to complete the repair/how difficult the job is.
Hire a Lockout Service Today
Now that you know the cost of home lockout service in Georgetown, remember it’s a good idea to replace your locks whenever you move, especially if you’re taking over a new apartment lease. This ensures no one outside of your family has a copy of your house key.
If you find yourself in need of a professional lockout service, contact Georgetown Locksmith today. Our experienced technicians can help you with all your locksmith needs, including home and car lockouts and so much more.