Frequently Asked Locksmith Questions

• Request the total service cost upfront and state you won’t pay more than the quoted price. Scammers often hang up if they can’t exploit you.
• Avoid providing your full address until you decide to hire the locksmith. Sharing an approximate location is enough for a quote.
• When the locksmith arrives, verify their service van and uniform display the advertised company name and logo. A mismatch suggests a fake locksmith.
• Trust your instincts and end the interaction if something feels off.
• Verify the locksmith’s legitimacy using Yelp or other social media platforms to confirm their authenticity.
• In Wisconsin, locksmiths aren’t required to hold licenses. However, Affordable Locksmith operates as a federally registered business with a valid FEIN/EIN and prioritizes transparency.
• Be aware scammers may advertise fake storefront addresses, exploiting the fact most locksmiths offer mobile services.

High-security locks provide unmatched protection and are typically mechanical, crafted with durable materials and designed to resist theft and endure daily use. Although more expensive than standard locks due to their precision engineering, high-security locks offer long-lasting security.

High-security locks feature restricted keyways to prevent unauthorized duplication. Only factory-authorized locksmiths can duplicate keys after verifying credentials. High-security locks are an excellent choice if you want full control over who can access your property. Applications range from banks and government buildings to homes and jewelry stores.

Affordable Locksmith recommends high-security locks to safeguard what matters most.

Affordable Locksmith provides emergency lockout services for all vehicle types, including cars, trucks, heavy-duty construction vehicles and semi-trucks. If your keys are locked inside, we can retrieve them regardless of the situation. We do not currently generate, cut or program vehicle keys or fobs but aim to reintroduce this service.

We accept all major credit cards, including MasterCard, Visa, Discover and American Express. Cash and checks with proper identification are also welcome.

No, Affordable Locksmith does not subcontract work. If I cannot complete a job promptly, I provide a referral to another trusted locksmith. My priority is maintaining personal accountability for every job and providing quality service from start to finish.

Almost every lock can be bypassed with the right skills. Some locks require advanced techniques while others may yield to amateur attempts. A professional locksmith can enhance a lock’s resistance to picking, making it significantly harder to exploit.

Even the most affordable locks can be adjusted for improved security. Affordable Locksmith advises investing in the best locks to deter unauthorized access.

With over 25 years of experience, Affordable Locksmith can often provide accurate estimates over the phone or through picture texting. We offer free consultations and estimates during nearby service calls for more complex situations and strive to deliver prompt evaluations, typically within 24-48 hours and often the same day.

Compatibility determines whether all your locks can operate with a single key. Schlage and Kwikset are North America’s main residential keyway manufacturers and their keys are not interchangeable. Testing your key in each lock can reveal compatibility.

When visiting your property, I assess your locks and recommend rekeying or replacing locks as needed. The process is more complex for commercial properties and requires an in-depth evaluation to determine the most cost-effective solution.

Installation times vary based on the number of doors. Most homes with 2-3 doors take about 2 hours, while larger homes may require 3-4 hours. Commercial doors are more complex and evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

Rekeying changes a lock’s internal components to work with a new key. Lock rekeying is ideal for lost or stolen keys, tenant changes or security upgrades. Once completed, the lock functions as new without needing full replacement.

Yes, Affordable Locksmith installs push-button keyless locks and smart locks. Push-button locks use a simple 4-digit code while smart locks offer advanced features like Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity for smartphone management. Modern smart locks are dependable and easy to use, eliminating the need for separate bridge devices. I can help you choose the right option based on your needs.

Affordable Locksmith provides comprehensive residential lockout services. Our locksmiths can quickly unlock any door, including interior bedroom doors, garage side doors or overhead doors affected by power outages or mechanical issues. Lockout services are treated as a priority for fast assistance.