When your locks and keys do not work properly, you may find yourself in a jam. Most locks and keys are used to secure property, to access property or to operate a car. These are all critical functions, and you may find yourself hard-pressed to walk through the rest of your day’s plans until you address your current lock or key situation. Hiring a locksmith is a great step to take when you are dealing with a critical issue involving your locks and keys. However, not all locksmiths are the same. Follow these important steps before you set up service today to enjoy the best results.

1. Confirm Your Need for Professional Services

Some people will contact a professional locksmith for assistance when help may not actually be needed. Your first impulse when dealing with an unexpected event may be to panic. However, calm yourself down, and think through other options to address your situation. For example, does your roommate or spouse have a spare key that they can bring to you?

2. Research Locksmiths With Local Offices

If you confirm that professional assistance is truly needed, the next step to take is to research professionals who have local offices. Some locksmith professionals will advertise locally, but they may be located out of town. This means that you will have to wait longer for help to arrive because of their travel time. They may also charge you an expensive travel fee. When you find local professionals, take the additional step to ensure that the professionals have great consumer reviews posted online and that they are properly licensed and insured.

3. Check Availability

Just because a professional has a great local reputation and is located in town does not make them your best option. You also need to find someone who can respond to your request for service without delay. The last thing that you want is to wait hours for help to arrive. While checking availability, you also need to confirm that the individual will have the skills and tools on hand to address your problem with one visit to your location.

4. Compare Rates

Rates vary dramatically form professional to professional. Some will charge you a travel fee regardless of whether they can help you or not. Others will waive the travel fee if you agree to the service. Many will quote you a fee up-front, and you should be wary of those who do not quote a firm fee over the phone.

Hiring a Toronto locksmith is not a matter to rush through. Avoid the impulse to hire the first person you reach out to. Instead, make a few phone calls first. This simple effort may save you time and money overall.