How Much Do Locksmiths Charge? 

Locksmiths can offer a wide variety of services. For instance, they can change locks, rekey, or create new keys for your home or car. Their rates vary, depending on where you live. You can get estimates over the phone. Typically, professional locksmiths charge a minimum service call fee, which covers labor, transportation expenses, and overhead. However, in certain locations, a more competitive rate might be available. 

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There are two main types of locksmith services: emergency and regular. Regardless of which type you choose, you should always be aware of the basic requirements of any locksmith service. They should have a license from the state where you reside. A locksmith can only be commissioned to work on your home if they are a licensed contractor. In addition, you should check if the company is reputable on the Internet and in the area. If possible, avoid signing a blank invoice. 

If you’re in a pinch, you can also call up your car insurance carrier and ask for a list of approved locksmiths. Some companies even have a special emergency line. This can help you get out of a jam without breaking the bank. 

Another good thing to do is call up a nearby hardware store and ask for a locksmith referral. While some hardware stores may be a little biased, they can usually provide a few reputable options. Ask for quotes, then compare prices. When you compare locksmith quotes, be sure to compare the quality of their work with the price. Also, check out their customer reviews to see if they are legitimate. 

The cost of a lock change depends on the type of lock you have. Traditional locks are relatively inexpensive to replace, while electronic systems require specialized skills. Additionally, you should consider the type of key you have. Traditional keys are more expensive than transponder keys, which are coded to your car’s security system. 

A typical locksmith will also have an after-hours service number. If you need help after normal business hours, you can expect to pay a premium for this service. Typical charges are around $75 to $100 for this service. But remember, the prices can change from hour to hour. Depending on where you live, you could be paying as much as $200 or more. 

Aside from the price, you should also take into consideration the time required for the work to be completed. Most jobs can be done in under a half an hour, but it can take longer for some complex challenges. Even if you are willing to pay the cost of an after-hours locksmith, be sure to schedule your appointment well in advance. 

During a particularly hectic week, you can expect to pay more for a locksmith. These guys earn a national median salary of $40,000. Although their rates vary, you can rest assured you’re not paying the earth for their services. 

On the other hand, the cost of a simple lock change can be as low as $5.25. The most expensive option involves replacing the lock altogether. Be sure to read the fine print, as some locksmiths will try to scam you.