I remember completing a long and stressful journey with one of my children finally reaching their university accommodation tired and fed up only for them to sheepishly announce that they had forgotten to bring their door key.
Cue big sigh and a long trip to pick up said key. Now I ask all of my children before we leave the driveway if they definitely have their house-keys.
Luckily although I am an absolute nightmare when it comes to misplacing things- phone, watch, glasses, keys - I have never lost my keys long enough to require the services of an emergency locksmith.
Actually, lost keys is just one of a number of reasons why you might need a locksmith. Here are a few more:
- Property broken into. For safety just in case the intruder has stolen keys or made a copy/imprint of them it's wise to get the locks changed. It may be that the lock is damaged which would also require the services of an expert.
- Broken keys. As keys age they can weaken and sometimes break. occasionally they might even break in the lock which is particularly inconvenient.
- Moving house. People tend to hand out spare keys to neighbours, family members and even friends for pet feeding or access for other reasons. Over the years there could be lots of keys to the property floating about. Moving into a new home the best way to be sure no-one has a key you haven't given to them is to get the locks changed.
- Relationship Issues. To ensure safety and privacy if a relationship ends or turns toxic it can be wise to get the locks changed.
Ask yourself. If your keys were lost, stolen or got broken would you know who to call to sort the problem out quickly?
Not knowing a good locksmith is like neglecting to sort out a dentist before raging toothache strikes. As around for recommendations and keep your chosen locksmith's number in your wallet or purse. Check it occasionally to make sure the number hasn't changed.
It's a good idea to check they are insured and have trade qualifications. Some are even police approved. Check that your house insurance company would be happy for you to call them if you needed to claim the costs back.