5 important facts about locksmiths
People often overlook locksmithing as a profession for some reason, but it has existed for a long time – they came into existence the moment locks and keys were invented and when security became a thing of concern.
The reality is that we need locksmiths in the community. If you are curious about the profession or just looking around for answers on how a locksmith can assist you, we have listed some questions and answers that might help.
Frequently asked questions about locksmiths
How do I become a professional locksmith?
Locksmithing is a craft that needs to be studied. Luckily this industry has already been recognised by the education system. TAFE offers a Certificate III Course for this under the code MEM30819.
The Locksmithing Course offered does not only include the study of picking locks. Among its units of competency are learning how to service and repair security systems, producing keys, gaining entry to locations during emergencies such as fire, and installing and upgrading locks, among others.
After completing the program, you will receive a certificate to prove your proficiency as a professional locksmith.
How broad is the professional locksmith’s scope of service and responsibility?
Gone are the days that a locksmith’s only responsibility is picking locks. If you are an aspiring locksmith, you need to understand that your services include assessing electric locking systems, installing and repairing locks, creating a master key system, and more.
Some locksmiths are also called upon to unlock safes or requested to create a key from a lock that has long been unopened. Have you been locked out of your automobile or even your home? Locksmiths can also help you with replacing your keys and changing your lock.
What are the different types of locksmith?
Although locksmiths operate under the same function, they have different fields of expertise that you must consider before soliciting their services.
· Residential Locksmith
This is the type of locksmith you call when you are locked out of your main door. They are easily found within the neighbourhood and the go-to person of homeowners when they forget or lose their house or car keys.
Since residential locksmiths can modify home locking systems, you can also seek their advice on which security system will work well in your residence.
· Institutional Locksmith
Locksmiths under this category have more secure employment because institutions hire them to belong in the employee network. Common employers include schools, hospitals, and government offices. Most of the time, institutional locksmiths also have different functions and responsibilities within the office and their regular locksmithing job.
· Commercial Locksmith
They are pretty similar to institutional locksmiths in function. They repair and maintain locks of commercial buildings and strengthen security measures in businesses by providing authorised access to employees.
· Auto Locksmith
As the name implies, these locksmiths are called whenever people forget their car keys in the car. Auto locksmiths ensure that the owners gain access to the car without compromising or breaking the windows or doors. They have tools that were made specifically for this function.
· Emergency Locksmith
This type of locksmith is available 24/7 to assist. They are especially useful during break-ins where the culprit most probably destroyed the locks. You can call them anytime and are expected to render service wherever you are.
· Forensic Locksmith
A forensic locksmith is called to the scene when there is a crime and investigators need to understand how the intruder went past the access points. They have specific tools to assist them in finding out how the lock or security system was hacked. They also report this as evidence to contribute to the investigation.
Can locksmiths be trusted?
If you are asking this question because you are looking to hire a locksmith, the best way to find someone trustworthy is to look into their business. You can do this by going to their website and checking if they have more than enough credible information.
A legitimate business, such as Ambassador Locksmiths, presents itself professionally, with contact information accessible to everyone, including its specific addresses. When they show up at your location, they are in their company uniform and an identifiable vehicle, with their name visible for everyone to see. Professional locksmiths also have proof of their previous jobs.
If you are afraid of getting scammed or charged higher than usual, you can first request a quote and a detailed estimate. After all, businesses should always be transparent.
DIY locksmith solutions vs. hiring a locksmith
More often than not, most people look online to find a do-it-yourself solution whenever they are locked out, and they can’t be totally blamed for this. They probably think that finding a DIY solution online can save time and money, but this is false.
Attempting to unlock doors, cars, safes, and whatnot can get you into even more trouble when you damage the equipment. Worse, it can put you in danger, especially if you plan to climb to places to access certain areas. So, save your energy, time, and money by calling someone trained for the job – a reputable locksmith.
Hire a Lake Macquarie and Newcastle locksmith today
Locksmiths are trained to perform the job safely, cleanly and efficiently. There are no locks a locksmith cannot access. To help you understand what they do and assist you in your security concerns, you can contact a professional locksmith to discuss these things.
Check out Ambassador Locksmiths by calling 0407 452 424 or (02) 4942 2202. Alternatively, send us an online message by clicking here. We are based in Charlestown, New South Wales, and we happily serve all suburbs of Newcastle and Lake Macquarie. Contact us today to find out more, or to get that lock opened.