Avoid Being Ripped Off!
Unfortunately in this day and age unscrupulous "business men" we use that term loosely - are taking advantage of people when they are most vulnerable. As difficult as it may be you must keep a clear head when faced with a lock out situation or other problem. This is of utmost importance to avoid being ripped off.
Here is a 10 point check list:
1. No Advertised Street Address ... if a company does not list a physical address, make sure when you call you ask where they are located. Make sure they are supplying you with an invoice with the company's name address, Telephone number and consumer affairs licence number.
2. "Locksmith Service." Unscrupulous individuals often operate under many business names/aliases. Thus, they must answer the phone with a generic phrase like, "Locksmith service." If they answer this way, ask, "What is the legal name of your business, and what is your street address?"
3. Out Of The Bronx . One of the main offenders of scams is a company based out of the Bronx NY. They will answer the phone "locksmith" and immediately ask what zip code your in. You should at this point hang the phone up and find yourself another locksmith. They are "servicing" the entire united states ripping people off coast to coast.
4. Unclear Business Name. Look closely at the ad(s). Is the specific name of the business clearly identified? Does it appear that the dealer actually operates under several names? If a Web address is listed, does the name on the Web site match the name on the ad?
5. "Under Same Ownership." This confusing statement, often found in small print at the bottom of a full-page ad in the Yellow Pages, is often legally required to prevent a business from deceiving the public. The statement itself may be a warning sign that the company operates under several aliases.
6. Giant Ads. Full-page ads in the Yellow Pages are very expensive. Many unscrupulous individuals can afford these ads because they grossly overcharge for unnecessary parts and services.
7. Discounts Galore. Consumers are often attracted to ads that offer discounts, ie., for Senior Citizens, Military, AAA, AARP, etc. If a true discount is what you are looking for, do not mention any discounts until after the price has been established. We advertise discounts to victims of crime, landlords, seniors, and many of our customers take advantage of the savings.
8. "Lowest Prices." Unwary consumers are attracted to this statement on ads. If you truly want the "lowest price," call around to different locksmiths. Ask what the quoted price entails. Ask if that is just a service fee and if the locksmith will have further charges when they show up to your car or home. When we advertise what we feel are the" lowest prices" it is after we have priced jobs with our competitors.
9. "Service Within an Hour." Unscrupulous individuals typically focus on emergency service work, often taking advantage of consumers that need immediate service. These individuals know they can charge you more for a lock if you're in a hurry. This is where you must keep a level head. Make sure to ask the correct questions at this time so it doesn't cost you more in the end. during day time hours our emergency service is the same price as regular service. Because we pay our mechanics extra to work nights we charge extra for our service. But no where near what these scam artists charge.
10. "Rated #1 in Customer Service." This statement often constitutes false advertising. If you call a locksmith that boasts such a rating, ask them to substantiate this claim. With testimonials from there clients. If the locksmith can't do it, call someone else.
Please feel confident in using our business which has been in existence for over 35 years.
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