“Best locksmith in town” claims: what really matters

Every locksmith ad claims to be top of the list. The slogan costs nothing, so it tells you nothing. Here's what you can actually check.

Clear pricing before work

A trustworthy locksmith explains the price structure on the phone and confirms the price on site before starting. Ask what the service call fee is, what labor starts at, and what could make the price go up. Monrovia Locksmiths publishes its price list for this reason.

Licensing in California

California licenses locksmith companies and their employees through the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS). You can ask for a license number and look it up on the BSIS website. Be cautious with anyone who won't give one.

Insurance and who is responsible

Ask who carries insurance and who provides the warranty. With referral services, the independent contractor who does the work invoices you and provides the warranty. That's explained in our terms.

They check who you are

A good locksmith asks for ID and proof of residence or ownership before opening a home or car. Someone who doesn't ask will open anyone's door, including yours.

Reviews: read them properly

• Look for detail: what was done, what it cost, how long it took.
• Notice how the business responds to complaints.
• Be wary of many five-star reviews with no detail posted in a short burst.

Red flags

• A very low phone price that grows on arrival without explanation.
• Pressure to drill or replace a standard lock immediately.
• No name, no company identification, and a vehicle with no markings.
• Cash only, with no invoice.

If anything feels wrong, you can decline the work and call someone else.