Locksmiths incorporate the skills of a carpenter, mechanic, machinist and security expert during the course of their work. There is a subset of locksmith skills that has always garnered a great deal of interest from the public at large: defeating locks! Locksmiths study how various locking devices work and, through that study, they learn how to defeat those locking mechanisms. These are the most closely-guarded trade secrets among locksmiths. The knowledge possessed by even apprentice locksmiths is enough to defeat most common security measures. For this reason, locksmiths are typically rigorously screened by their mentors before they’re offered an apprenticeship.

Locksmiths are somewhat defined by the clients for whom they work. Their specific skills, depending on their market, can vary greatly. Those locksmiths who specialize in residential service often spend a great deal of their time outfitting new construction with locking hardware and repairing and replacing aged and broken systems. Most residential locksmiths also offer at least some light automotive locksmithing services including cutting new keys and opening locked doors.

Commercial locksmiths provide their skills principally to corporate and government clients. Today’s commercial locksmiths are oftentimes trained and experienced in dealing with sophisticated electronic equipment. Those who specialize in electronic security are often employed maintaining large facilities where security is a great concern.

Among the most respected of locksmiths are those who work on safes. The locksmithing skills required working with safes and vaults take many years of study to master. These locksmiths are often called in when a safe, for some reason, is rendered unable to open. These individuals with skilled trades, given enough time, are able to open most any device without damaging the contents. Sometimes, they’re able to “crack” a safe without damaging the locking mechanism, as well. This skill doesn’t at all resemble the way it’s portrayed in films. Mastering the art of safe cracking requires knowledge of many different safes, metallurgy, the operation of very powerful and complex drilling equipment, electronic devices and much more.

Many locksmiths are self-employed and lead a very independent existence. Because the skill is so specialized, there are few opportunities for “staff” locksmiths. These independent locksmiths often work odd hours, opening doors in the middle of the night for stranded homeowners and drivers, as well as installing security systems during the hours when buildings are being used the least.

Locksmiths are required to obtain different types of licensing, depending on where they work. Locksmiths are also traditionally “bonded” which is a legal means of assuring their trustworthiness to their clients. Traditionally, locksmiths undergo an apprenticeship though many have received training through an employer or by attending a school specific to the trade.

Although a locksmith’s job seems very exciting and appealing to most people, there is a lot of skill, education, and experience involved.

Premium Security Services & Locks
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New York, New York 10018
Tel: (347) 226-5924

http://premiumlocksmithnewyork.com

24-Hour Locksmith
Several locksmiths offer or specialize in 24-hour locksmith services. These locksmiths usually don’t make locks but perform lock-picking, lock repair, and other urgent keying services. If the worst happens and someone does break into your home, your first call is going to be to the police, but it’s not a bad idea to call a 24-hour locksmith, either. They may be able to tell you exactly how the perpetrator entered your home. Plus, your locks probably need to be replaced, anyway. Better yet, if you’re unsure how secure your home is, you can hire a locksmith to test your entrances and give you an honest appraisal of your home’s security. If you do have to call a locksmith off hours, expect to pay a surcharge.

Modern Locksmith Services
Several locksmith companies offer services and technologies well beyond conventional lock-picking and replacement. Electronic and magnetic locks are becoming more accessible and affordable to homeowners. Comprehensive companies offer a combination of locksmith services and home security systems, including home safes, intercoms, secure doors, windows, and gates with the latest technologies such as fingerprint readers. Of course, no home security system is impenetrable, but you can get pretty close. The casual burglar won’t be able to get in, and the experienced burglar is probably going to pass over your home.

Premium Security Services & Locks
505 8th Ave, Suite 1P
New York, New York 10018
Tel: (347) 226-5924

http://premiumlocksmithnewyork.com

When “Local” Is Really Long-Distance

Consider this scenario: A company far away from your town chooses a name for its business that is very similar to the name used by a local locksmith. The company advertises in the phone book or on the Web using a local telephone number and local address. When you call the number, you’re actually connected to a call center in another city. What’s more, there’s no locksmith shop at the address listed.

You may be quoted a price on the phone, but when the locksmith arrives, often in an unmarked vehicle, he may want significantly more money. The locksmith also may accept only cash.

Some who claim to be “local locksmith” companies have multiple listings (sometimes 30 or more separate listings in a single phone book) with different names. But the calls to each of these numbers go back to the same central number in a distant city where operators dispatch untrained individuals to do the job.
Tips for Picking a Locksmith

What’s the best way to pick a reputable locksmith?

Consider researching locksmiths before you need one, the same way you would a plumber, electrician, or other professional. That works well if you’re looking to have some security work done at your home, like installing deadbolts on the exterior doors of your house, or a safe in your bedroom.

But if you’re dealing with an emergency, like being locked out of your car, you really don’t have much time for thorough research.

Regardless of whether you are locked out of your car or home, you need new locks installed, or you require other security work, the FTC offers these tips to help you hire a legitimate, local locksmith.

In emergency situations:

If you’re locked out of your car and have a roadside assistance service, call them first. These services sometimes are included with the purchase of a car, or as an add-on through your insurance company. You also can buy this service separately. Roadside assistance plans often have a list of pre-approved companies to perform services like unlocking cars, jump-starting batteries, changing flat tires, delivering gasoline, and towing.
Call family or friends for recommendations.

If you find a locksmith in the phone book, on the Internet, or through directory assistance, and a business address is given, confirm that the address belongs to that locksmith. Some disreputable companies list street addresses to give the impression that they’re local. But the addresses may belong to other businesses or vacant lots, if they exist at all. You can verify addresses through websites that allow you to match phone numbers with street addresses. Some legitimate locksmith companies may not include a street address in their listing either because they operate a “mobile” business or they operate their business out of their home and may be reluctant to list that address. If you call a locksmith who doesn’t list an address, ask why. If the answer is that it’s a “mobile” business, you will understand they have no storefront.

Write down the names of several businesses, their phone numbers, and addresses for future reference, in case you don’t want to go with the first locksmith you call.

If a company answers the phone with a generic phrase like “locksmith services,” rather than a company-specific name, be wary. Ask for the legal name of the business. If the person refuses, call another locksmith.
Get an estimate for all work and replacement parts from the locksmith before work begins. In cases of “lock-outs” (being locked out of your car or home), most legitimate locksmiths will give you an estimate on the phone for the total cost of the work.

Ask about additional fees before you agree to have the locksmith perform the work. Companies may charge extra for responding to a call in the middle of the night. Ask if there is a charge for mileage, or a minimum fee for a service call.

If the price the locksmith provides when he arrives doesn’t jibe with the estimate you got on the telephone, do not allow the work to be done.

Never sign a blank form authorizing work.
Find out if the locksmith is insured. If your property is damaged during a repair, or if faulty work leads to loss or damage, it’s important for the locksmith to have insurance to cover your losses.

When the locksmith arrives, ask for identification, including a business card and, where applicable, a locksmith license. Nine states require locksmiths to be licensed: Alabama, California, Illinois, Louisiana, New Jersey, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Tennessee and Texas. In addition to a business card, check to see if the invoice includes the company’s name, and whether the locksmith’s vehicle has a name that matches the business card, invoice, and/or bill.

Expect the locksmith to ask you for identification, as well. A legitimate locksmith should confirm your identity and make sure you’re the property owner before doing any work.

Some locksmiths will work out of a car for quick or emergency jobs, but most will arrive in a service vehicle that is clearly marked with their company’s name.

In the case of a lock-out, be cautious if you’re told up front that the lock has to be drilled and replaced. An experienced legitimate locksmith has invested in the tools and education to provide quality service, and can unlock almost any door.

After the work is completed, get an itemized invoice that covers parts, labor, mileage, and the price of the service call.

In situations where you have more time, check out locksmiths with your state Attorney General (www.naag.org), local consumer protection agency (www.consumeraction.gov), and the Better Business Bureau (www.bbb.org) to make sure there are no unresolved complaints on file. (You can get the phone numbers for these organizations in your phone book, through directory assistance, or through Web directories.) This is true whether you need a locksmith for a one-time job, or you want to hire someone to work for you on a continuing basis. You must be able to trust your locksmith. You don’t want to give access to the locks for your home, car, or place of business to just anyone.

Premium Security Services & Locks
505 8th Ave, Suite 1P
New York, New York 10018
Tel: (347) 226-5924

http://premiumlocksmithnewyork.com

When to Consider Lock Replacement or a New Key?

Moving to a new house. This is a pretty obvious situation. You are moving into a home where copies of keys may have been distributed over the years and some copies may have been surreptitiously made – whether by family members for boyfriends or girlfriends or by unscrupulous people who had access to your home. Don’t think when you get a couple of pairs of keys from the old homeowner that you have anywhere even close to the whole universe of keys to the house.

A break-in. Most people will change out at least their keys, and often the entire locks, if they have been the victim of a burglary. That is particularly the case if the burglar got in without forced entry. Was the door open or did the intruder somehow have a key? Crime statistics show that a good portion of the nearly 40 percent of burglaries that gain entrance through a door do not involve forced entry.

Lost or stolen keys. If a set of keys to the house is lost, the first assumption should be that someone who wants to gain access to your home has the keys. Of course, that is often not the case. But security experts preach being prepared, and it makes no sense to take the risk that no one who may find the keys can even tie them to your home.

Why Choose Lock Replacement Over New Keys?

While experts say re-keyed locks provide the same security as new locks for much less money, there are situations when it makes sense to go with lock replacement instead of making new keys.

Upgrade locks. If you decide you want to go from a single cylinder to double cylinder lock or to switch out complete for a more secure mortise lock, that’s a situation where total lock replacement is the only way to go.

Fault locks. If you find that your key catches frequently in the lock and a locksmith is unable to clean the lock to solve the problem, or other difficulties arise with your current lock, then getting a new key isn’t going to help the problem. The source of the problem is the lock and only a lock replacement will ensure a fully-functioning lock for your door.

Premium Security Services & Locks
505 8th Ave, Suite 1P
New York, New York 10018
Tel: (347) 226-5924

http://premiumlocksmithnewyork.com

An hour or so of homework up front can have the number of a reputable locksmith in your wallet or purse. That way, when an emergency happens, you know who to call and you know the price will be reasonable.

Here are a few things to look for when looking for a dependable locksmith:

Professional Organizations – There are many professional locksmith organizations. Some are national, like the Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA). There are also state-specific professional locksmith organizations. If your locksmith is a member of a professional organization you can call and find out if he is a member in good standing and if there have been any complaints made. You can also contact professional organizations to recommend a locksmith in your area.

Reputation and Experience – Make sure your locksmith is someone you want to call. Visit a few local locksmith shops and talk to the owner. Find out if he has employees and if they do emergency jobs 24-hours a day. Ask what they have expertise in and what jobs they do most often and see if they have any customers you can ask for a reference.

Pricing – Compare pricing on the most common services you may need. Your car locks, your home locks, and anything else you think you may need a locksmith for. Ask about costs for emergency service and how long it takes them to respond to an emergency call.

Premium Security Services & Locks
505 8th Ave, Suite 1P
New York, New York 10018
Tel: (347) 226-5924

http://premiumlocksmithnewyork.com

The most common types of window locks are:
sliding locks
window latches
padlocks
hook locks
keyed locks

The size and weight of the window you are securing will be a big factor is determining the size and strength of the window locks you use. For example, sash and casement windows will require a particular type of window lock because of the way they open. And keyed locks for windows are more discreet on a large picture window, for example, but are less convenient to operate because you must find the key every time you want to open the window.

Another consideration is the theft deterrent factor. While a large, visible lock may not be the look you’re going for, it also doesn’t look appealing to a burglar. If a thief approaches a window with a visible security measure in place, they are less likely to try to get in. Speed is of the essence for burglars so anything that slows them down gives you a higher level of security. They also won’t want the attention that would come from breaking a window. For extra security, window locks are available that prevent the window from being opened even if the glass is broken.

In addition to securing your windows against unwanted entry, window locks can also be an important safeguard when you have small children. Falling accidents in the home involving children are quite common, and falling out of a window is an even more common accident than falling down stairs. Properly securing windows with effective locks will help protect your children from this hazard.

To help you select the most appropriate means of securing your windows, as well as your doors, ask your local police department for a home security inspection, or contact a qualified locksmith.

Premium Security Services & Locks
505 8th Ave, Suite 1P
New York, New York 10018
Tel: (347) 226-5924

http://premiumlocksmithnewyork.com

Rekeying a lock is the process of changing the tumblers of a lock cylinder with tumblers of different sizes. When you rekey a lock the old key can be thrown away as it will no longer open the lock. The lock will require the new key that coincides with the new tumblers to operate. Local locksmiths can rekey locks at a significantly lower cost than full replacement of the lock. If the security grade of the lock has an American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Grade 1 designation there should not be a need to replace the entire lock.

In addition to rekeying locks for security many homeowners choose to rekey locks for convenience. One way to reduce confusion and the weight of many keys on your key ring is to have all of your exterior locks rekeyed to use the same key. A locksmith can rekey an unlimited number of locks in your home to all work with the same key. For owners of rental property such as apartment buildings, or for condominium associations, it is often necessary to have a master key that will open multiple locks. These locks then each have a key that will open only that tenant’s lock. Locksmiths can perform master rekeying to almost any configuration to meet the needs of rental property owners, businesses, and homeowners.

There are several reasons you may choose to rekey the lock or locks on the doors in your home, place of business, or other secure location. Some of the more common ones include moving into a new place, losing a key, loaning out a key and not getting it back, or wanting to have different keys for your front, back and side door. While you may think that rekeying is a cost effective alternative to actually replacing the old lock sets, the process can still add up if an entire house needs to be done.

The decision to rekey or replace your locks may come down to the expense. But keep in mind that in many states you are required to rekey old locks between tenants if you own residential rental property.

Premium Security Services & Locks
505 8th Ave, Suite 1P
New York, New York 10018
Tel: (347) 226-5924

http://premiumlocksmithnewyork.com

Consider this scenario: A company far away from your town chooses a name for its business that is very similar to the name used by a local locksmith. The company advertises in the phone book or on the Web using a local telephone number and local address. When you call the number, you’re actually connected to a call center in another city. What’s more, there’s no locksmith shop at the address listed.

You may be quoted a price on the phone, but when the locksmith arrives, often in an unmarked vehicle, he may want significantly more money. The locksmith also may accept only cash.

Some who claim to be “local locksmith” companies have multiple listings (sometimes 30 or more separate listings in a single phone book) with different names. But the calls to each of these numbers go back to the same central number in a distant city where operators dispatch untrained individuals to do the job.
Tips for Picking a Locksmith

What’s the best way to pick a reputable locksmith? Consider researching locksmiths before you need one, the same way you would a plumber, electrician, or other professional. That works well if you’re looking to have some security work done at your home, like installing deadbolts on the exterior doors of your house, or a safe in your bedroom.
But if you’re dealing with an emergency, like being locked out of your car, you really don’t have much time for thorough research.
Regardless of whether you are locked out of your car or home, you need new locks installed, or you require other security work, the FTC offers these tips to help you hire a legitimate, local locksmith.

In emergency situations:
If you’re locked out of your car and have a roadside assistance service, call them first. These services sometimes are included with the purchase of a car, or as an add-on through your insurance company. You also can buy this service separately. Roadside assistance plans often have a list of pre-approved companies to perform services like unlocking cars, jump-starting batteries, changing flat tires, delivering gasoline, and towing.
Call family or friends for recommendations.
If you find a locksmith in the phone book, on the Internet, or through directory assistance, and a business address is given, confirm that the address belongs to that locksmith. Some disreputable companies list street addresses to give the impression that they’re local. But the addresses may belong to other businesses or vacant lots, if they exist at all. You can verify addresses through websites that allow you to match phone numbers with street addresses. Some legitimate locksmith companies may not include a street address in their listing either because they operate a “mobile” business or they operate their business out of their home and may be reluctant to list that address. If you call a locksmith who doesn’t list an address, ask why. If the answer is that it’s a “mobile” business, you will understand they have no storefront.
Write down the names of several businesses, their phone numbers, and addresses for future reference, in case you don’t want to go with the first locksmith you call.
If a company answers the phone with a generic phrase like “locksmith services,” rather than a company-specific name, be wary. Ask for the legal name of the business. If the person refuses, call another locksmith.
Get an estimate for all work and replacement parts from the locksmith before work begins. In cases of “lock-outs” (being locked out of your car or home), most legitimate locksmiths will give you an estimate on the phone for the total cost of the work.
Ask about additional fees before you agree to have the locksmith perform the work. Companies may charge extra for responding to a call in the middle of the night. Ask if there is a charge for mileage, or a minimum fee for a service call.
If the price the locksmith provides when he arrives doesn’t jibe with the estimate you got on the telephone, do not allow the work to be done.
Never sign a blank form authorizing work.
Find out if the locksmith is insured. If your property is damaged during a repair, or if faulty work leads to loss or damage, it’s important for the locksmith to have insurance to cover your losses.
When the locksmith arrives, ask for identification, including a business card and, where applicable, a locksmith license. Nine states require locksmiths to be licensed: Alabama, California, Illinois, Louisiana, New Jersey, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Tennessee and Texas. In addition to a business card, check to see if the invoice includes the company’s name, and whether the locksmith’s vehicle has a name that matches the business card, invoice, and/or bill.
Expect the locksmith to ask you for identification, as well. A legitimate locksmith should confirm your identity and make sure you’re the property owner before doing any work.
Some locksmiths will work out of a car for quick or emergency jobs, but most will arrive in a service vehicle that is clearly marked with their company’s name.
In the case of a lock-out, be cautious if you’re told up front that the lock has to be drilled and replaced. An experienced legitimate locksmith has invested in the tools and education to provide quality service, and can unlock almost any door.
After the work is completed, get an itemized invoice that covers parts, labor, mileage, and the price of the service call.
In situations where you have more time, check out locksmiths with your state Attorney General (www.naag.org), local consumer protection agency (www.consumeraction.gov), and the Better Business Bureau (www.bbb.org) to make sure there are no unresolved complaints on file. (You can get the phone numbers for these organizations in your phone book, through directory assistance, or through Web directories.) This is true whether you need a locksmith for a one-time job, or you want to hire someone to work for you on a continuing basis. You must be able to trust your locksmith. You don’t want to give access to the locks for your home, car, or place of business to just anyone.
In Case There’s a Next Time

Once you’ve found a reputable locksmith, keep the company’s name and contact information in your wallet and address book at home or at work. You also may want to program this information into your home and cell phones. This can save you time and trouble the next time you need these services.

Source: Federal Trade Commision

Premium Security Services & Locks
505 8th Ave, Suite 1P
New York, New York 10018
Tel: (347) 226-5924

http://premiumlocksmithnewyork.com

24-Hour Locksmith
Several locksmiths offer or specialize in 24-hour locksmith services. These locksmiths usually don’t make locks but perform lock-picking, lock repair, and other urgent keying services. If the worst happens and someone does break into your home, your first call is going to be to the police, but it’s not a bad idea to call a 24-hour locksmith, either. They may be able to tell you exactly how the perpetrator entered your home. Plus, your locks probably need to be replaced, anyway. Better yet, if you’re unsure how secure your home is, you can hire a locksmith to test your entrances and give you an honest appraisal of your home’s security. If you do have to call a locksmith off hours, expect to pay a surcharge.

Modern Locksmith Services
Several locksmith companies offer services and technologies well beyond conventional lock-picking and replacement. Electronic and magnetic locks are becoming more accessible and affordable to homeowners. Comprehensive companies offer a combination of locksmith services and home security systems, including home safes, intercoms, secure doors, windows, and gates with the latest technologies such as fingerprint readers. Of course, no home security system is impenetrable, but you can get pretty close. The casual burglar won’t be able to get in, and the experienced burglar is probably going to pass over your home.

By Jon Nunan, a freelance writer who draws on his experience in construction, ranging from landscaping to log home building, for his articles on home improvement.

Premium Security Services & Locks
505 8th Ave, Suite 1P
New York, New York 10018
Tel: (347) 226-5924

http://premiumlocksmithnewyork.com