Businesses spend a lot of time worrying about their security. In recent years, this has translated into overwhelming concerns over digital security in the wake of so many data breaches. Yet, businesses remain at risk from plain old burglary.
Maybe you’re worried that a couple of keys have gone missing over the years or you just want a security upgrade. In either case, you’ll need the services of a professional locksmith.
Before you pick a name at random from internet listings, here are five essential questions you should ask a commercial locksmith before you hire them.
1. Where Are You Located?
Proximity isn’t everything, but it does matter. A reputable company with a location a few blocks from your business will often end up a better option than one located miles away.
This proves especially true when you need service off of normal business hours. A local locksmith will arrive faster than one located in a distant suburb.
2. What Are Your Rates?
Cost may not end up as your primary decision-making criterion, but it plays a role. When shopping around for a locksmith in a non-emergency situation, it helps you to compare rates. Not only does this let you establish a baseline, but it arms you to ask why a locksmith charges more.
3. Are You Licensed and Insured?
In the US, fifteen states require locksmith licenses. In addition, some counties and municipalities require licensure of some kind. If you live in a state that doesn’t require licenses, ask if the locksmith is a member of a professional locksmith organization, such as the Associated Locksmiths of America.
You should also make sure your locksmith carries liability insurance. While unlikely, a locksmith may accidentally damage your company’s property. Insurance helps make sure you get a timely repair or reimbursement.
4. Can You Install Access Control Systems?
An access control system consists of two main parts: physicals controls and logical controls. Physical controls can include everything from basic locks on a server room to biometric entry systems. Logical controls consist of software-based security measures typically handled by an IT department.
Many companies prefer that one contractor handles installation for the entire physical system infrastructure. This simplifies future service calls for any problems with the physical system.
5. Do You Offer a Warranty?
Most locksmiths will offer a warranty for their services. If a locksmith won’t warranty their services, you should take it as a warning signal.
At best, it means they don’t really trust their own workmanship. At worst, it means the company runs a scam service.
Parting Thoughts on Questions to Ask a Commercial Locksmith
You can find a good commercial locksmith. The trick is for you to ask a few essential questions about licensing, insurance, their range of services, and their rates. The answers they provide will arm you to make an informed decision before you let a comparative stranger alter your business’ security measures.
Kenny’s Lock, Inc. specializes in locksmithing for commercial and residential properties. For questions or a service quote, contact Kenny’s Lock, Inc. today.
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