FAQ

The following are Nationwide Locksmiths most frequently asked questions:

• What exactly does a locksmith do?

Locksmiths work with everything having to do with keys and locks. We install new locks; fix broken locks, duplicated car keys, house keys, and office keys. We also pick locks in a lockout emergency situation. We provide a wide range of security related locksmith services like safe and alarm installations.

• What does “locksmith certification” mean and why is it important?

Locksmith certification means that a locksmith has undergone a significant amount of locksmith training as well as an apprenticeship and is acknowledged by the state that s/he works s in to service locks and keys and security related devices.

Certification is very important, as proper licensing insures that the locksmith you are choosing to secure your home, office, or vehicle is equipped to handle your needs properly.

• Why hire a car locksmith instead of going to a car dealership?

For starters, our auto locksmith services include many more services than your local dealership can handle. We are experts at what we do, so you know that when calling upon our car locksmith services, you are in capable hands. We also offer more reasonable rates than a car dealership and we are open 24 hours a day to service your locksmith needs.

• What qualifies as a locksmith emergency?

Any issue with a security device in your home, car, or office that must be dealt with immediately. Emergency locksmith services also include regular locksmith services that are required after business hours and on weekends and holidays.

• I duplicated a key at my local hardware store and it won’t work, why is this?  

Hardware stores are not always equipped to handle all key duplications. They may or may not be able to copy simple keys, but more high-tech keys, such as transponder keys and other car keys should really only be dealt with by a certified auto locksmith technician. The rule of thumb in general, is that if you want a job done right, hire an expert. 

• I'm locked out of my house - can you help?

Actually, this is one of the most common reasons our locksmiths are called out. Home lockouts can happen for a variety of reasons: perhaps your house key is worn down or the lock is rusted, your key may have been lost or if you have smart locks, they may need reprogramming. It can happen to anyone at anytime and our locksmiths can not only arrive within a half hour to unlock the door, we can also diagnose and fix the problem that caused you to be locked out of your house in the first place.

• What do I need to do when I move into a new home/ office?

​When you move into a new place, one of the first things you should do is call in a professional commercial or residential locksmith to perform a thorough security assessment and change the locks. Even if there's nothing to improve, the security assessment will not only make sure your new place is secure, you can also present it to your insurance company, which will reduce your premiums immediately. You should also change the locks because you never know who has lived there in the past and even who they may have given a spare key to. Moving vans and new tennants are prime targets for theives, so make sure you don't fall victim to one of the oldest tricks in the burglary book: get your locks changed or rekeyed promptly!