Short answer: Be wary of a very low phone price with no company name. Get the total before work starts, and do not let anyone drill a standard lock without a good reason.
How the bait-and-switch works
- You search for a locksmith and call the first number. The person who answers does not say a company name.
- You are quoted a low "service call" price that sounds too good.
- Someone arrives in an unmarked car, often much later than promised.
- They say the lock is "high security" and has to be drilled and replaced.
- The bill is many times the phone quote, and they want cash.
How to protect yourself
- Ask "what is the company name?" and "where are you located?" A legitimate business answers right away.
- Ask for the total price range, not just the trip fee.
- If the price changes on site, you can say no. You only owe for work you agreed to.
- Ask for a written invoice with the company's name, address and phone number.
- Pay by card when you can. It gives you a record and a way to dispute a charge.
About drilling: almost every home lockout can be opened by picking the lock or another non-destructive method. Drilling is sometimes needed for a broken lock or a true high-security cylinder, but it should never be the first suggestion for an ordinary front door.
If something goes wrong, you can report it to the FTC and to the Florida Attorney General's consumer protection office.