How to Hire a Real Locksmith in NYC (and Avoid Fake Locksmith Listings)

When you are locked out or need a lock changed, you want help fast. That is also when it is easiest to hire the wrong company. Some online listings show a local address or phone number but have no shop in your area. A few minutes of checking protects you from surprise charges and poor work.

Use this checklist before you hire any locksmith.

The Locksmith Hiring Checklist

1. Verify a real street address.
Ask where the business is located. Look the address up on a map and check that it is a business location. A real locksmith will tell you where to find them.

2. Ask for the license.
New York City requires a Locksmith License from the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) to repair, service, install, inspect, and open and close locks by mechanical means. Ask for the license number and check it with DCWP at nyc.gov/dcwp, or call 311. iLocksmiths is licensed, insured and bonded, and our license is verified with the city. License and insurance information is provided before the job.

3. Ask about insurance.
A professional locksmith should be insured. If a door or lock is damaged during the job, insurance matters.

4. Ask for a price before work starts.
Ask for a clear quote over the phone, and ask what could change it. Be careful with very low “from” prices that grow once the locksmith arrives. Agree on the total before any work begins.

5. Ask for identification on arrival.
The locksmith should be able to identify themselves and the company they work for, and the vehicle or paperwork should match the company you called.

6. Check for a local phone number and a consistent business name.
Call and listen to how the phone is answered. A business that answers with its own name and can describe its location is a good sign. Be cautious if the name changes from one call to the next.

7. Read the paperwork before you pay.
Ask for a written invoice with the business name, address and phone number.

Expect Your Locksmith to Verify Ownership

A legitimate locksmith will ask for identification and proof that you are the owner or authorized occupant before starting work, such as proof of address for your home or business, or proof of ownership for your vehicle. This is standard practice and protects you. A locksmith who does not ask should be a warning sign.

What a Physical Locksmith Shop Offers

A locksmith with a real storefront gives you more than a phone number.

  • A place you can visit. You can walk in, ask questions and see the products.
  • Accountability. A business that has stayed at one address for years has a reputation to protect. iLocksmiths has been in business for more than 15 years.
  • Products and services on site. Key duplication, safes, locks, rekeying and car keys can be handled in person.
  • Help for follow-up questions. If a key stops working or you need another copy, you know where to go.

Visit the iLocksmiths Store

Our store is at 1742 Coney Island Ave, at Avenue N, next door to AutoZone, in Brooklyn, NY 11230. Call (718) 504-5625 before you visit.

Need a Locksmith to Come to You?

iLocksmiths is a licensed, insured and bonded locksmith company, verified with the city, serving Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, Staten Island, the Bronx and Long Island, 24 hours. Call (718) 504-5625.