Help Center
How to Hire a Locksmith Safely in Durham, NC
When you are locked out, you are in a hurry, and that is when it is easiest to hire the wrong company. Use this checklist before you say yes.
How to pick a locksmith you can trust
Most locksmiths do honest work. The problems come from companies that hide who they are, advertise one price and charge another, or damage a lock that could have been opened gently.
A few questions on the phone protect you from most of that.
Ask these before anyone comes out
- What is the name of your company and where is it based? A real local business gives you both.
- What is the total price, including the trip and the work? Get it before they come.
- How long until you arrive, and who is coming? A real business can give you an arrival window.
- Will you try to open the lock without damaging it first?
- Will I get a written invoice when the work is done?
Warning signs
Any one of these is a reason to hang up and call someone else.
Only a generic name
If the call is answered with just “locksmith” or a vague name, and they will not tell you the company name or location, be careful.
A price that changes
A very low advertised price that grows once the technician arrives is a common complaint. Ask for the total on the phone.
Pressure to drill or replace
Many locks can be opened without drilling. Ask why a lock must be destroyed.
No ID, no invoice
A real business can show who it is and give you a written invoice. A legitimate locksmith also asks for your ID and proof of ownership.
What a good locksmith visit looks like
Here is what you should expect:
- The company tells you its name, location and the price on the phone.
- The technician confirms you own the car or home before opening it.
- The lock is opened without damage where possible.
- You get a clear explanation of what was done and a written invoice.
About us: Durham Locksmith is locally owned, our technicians are trained and background-checked, and you hear the price before work begins. See our emergency locksmith page.
Locksmith service by town
We come to you in Durham, Chapel Hill and nearby Wake County. Find your town:
Hiring a Locksmith: Questions
How do I know a locksmith is legitimate?
A legitimate locksmith gives you the company name and location, quotes a total price up front, asks for ID and proof that you own the property, and gives you an invoice.
Why do I need to show ID?
It protects you. A locksmith who opens a car or home for anyone who asks is a risk to everyone else.
Is it safe to call the first result online?
Not always. Look for a real business name, a local address and consistent reviews. Be careful with ads that show a very low price.
What if the price changes when they arrive?
You can say no and let the technician leave before any work starts. Asking for the total on the phone helps you avoid this.
What are your hours?
We work 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM, seven days a week.
Do you serve my town?
Durham Locksmith serves Durham, Chapel Hill, Carrboro, Hillsborough, Morrisville, Research Triangle Park, Cary and Apex, plus Knightdale, Wake Forest, Fuquay-Varina, Clayton, Zebulon and Garner in NC.
Want a Locksmith You Can Trust?
Call Durham Locksmith. You hear the price and an arrival window before we head out.
(919) 769-3432