Locksmith Vinings GA

When you need a professional that can ensure that your property (or properties, for that matter) are secured as best as possible, please contact Locksmith Vinings GA promptly so you can learn all about what our experts plan to do to help you. locksmithvinings.net

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5 Tips for Hiring a Good Locksmith

When the time comes that you need a great locksmith, where do you turn? Whether you’re looking to replace the old locks on your home, upgrade your security, outfit a safe at your business, or replace your car’s worn out ignition cylinder, there is a long list of potential reasons why you might need a locksmith. When you need to hire a locksmith, especially in a hurry, you want to make sure you are getting the most bang for your buck by choosing the best locksmith company around. Whether you need a locksmith for your residence, vehicle, or business, by performing the following steps you can choose the right company for the job. 

1. Compile a List of Choices

In Vinings, GA and most other areas in Georgia, there are multiple choices for locksmith companies who provide service. Research your local options and make a list of all of the possible locksmith companies you could choose to hire for whatever job you need help with. Make sure that the company covers the type of locksmith services you need. For example, if you need work done on your home’s lock and keys, you don’t want to get your heart set on a company that only provides automotive locksmith work. You can find the locksmith companies in your area by researching online, asking around, and looking around your town.  

2. Research Each Company Online

Any reputable locksmith company in this modern age will have an online presence. That starts with a business website where you can learn general information about the company, the services they offer, and possibly see reviews or recommendations from former clients. You can also search out the company’s social media presence if they have one. Keep in mind that this is only part of the information you should be taking into consideration when choosing which locksmith to hire, but it gives you an initial snapshot of each company.  

A company that is both local and well-established, like Locksmith Vinings GA, is your best option. Unfortunately, there are many shady fly-by-night locksmith companies in existence looking to make a quick buck off of people’s distress and misfortune. To avoid being taken advantage of, don’t settle on the cheapest company you find without doing further research.  

  3. Ask Friends and Family for Advice

If any of the people close to you have used a locksmith service in the last few years, ask them what company they chose, what made them decide to pick that company, and whether they were satisfied with the work and the service. If they were happy with the service they received, especially if the work was similar to what you need done, then add that to your research. Even if their experience was a poor one, it will help you weed out companies that will not fit the bill, potentially narrowing down your list of options.  

4. Call Your Choices and Feel Them Out

When compiling your initial list, make sure to include each company’s current phone number. Call each company one by one and ask them a basic list of questions. Write down their responses and compare them. See how their services, procedures, and rates compare between the different companies. What forms of locksmith services do they cover: automotive, residential, commercial, emergency? Or all four? What hours do they operate under? How long have they been in business? These are all important questions that can bring you closer to choosing the best locksmith company for your particular problem.

If the company is evasive or not upfront about their answers, that’s a bad sign and you should reconsider using that company. Trust your gut instincts and if a company seems like it’s not on the up and up, avoid using their services. It’s not worth it to have your locks damaged or your credit card bill shot up to try and hire a shady locksmith service that promises extremely low fees.  

5. Stay Informed During the Process

Don’t be afraid to ask questions about what services they choose to perform. If they try to encourage you to have additional services done that you don’t need, politely refuse, and if they push the issue further, know that you always have the right to choose another company instead. It’s important not to feel stuck with the first company that you choose in case something goes wrong or you don’t feel like they are the right fit.  

If You Need an Emergency Locksmith

If you’re experiencing an emergency lockout from your home, car, or business, you probably don’t have the time or the patience to go through the above steps. In that case, you’ll want to perform a truncated version of this process that is adapted to fit into a short period of time. These steps include:

Find the top locksmith choices available in your area. Three is a good number.  

Quickly peruse their websites and read any reviews you find.  

Pick a first choice of the one that appears to be the best for your situation and give them a call.  

If you don’t like what they have to say, call the next company. Keep the call short (5-10 minutes) and to the point, and ask direct questions about their lockout services and the cost.  

Choose the locksmith company to come out that feels right.

While this situation may not always work out perfectly, it’s better than going in to hire a locksmith blindly and being taking advantage of in a difficult situation. This process will allow you to make a better selection of the locksmith performing your services, which can prevent damage caused by poorly trained locksmiths.  

No matter what lock and key services you need the assistance of a locksmith with, it’s always best to do your due diligence to find the right company for the job. This is especially true if it is a more complex case, such as replacing your commercial lock hardware with keyless security upgrades. By using this process to screen possible locksmiths you are ensuring that you have picked the best choice.  

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5 Reasons Why You Should Always Hire a Certified Locksmith

We never want to go through the process of hiring a professional locksmith as the situations may be annoying when you have to deal with a malfunctioned door lock. If you are ever stuck in such emergency situations, it is suggested that you don’t try to deal with them yourself. So, if you really need to call a professional, and then make sure you are hiring only a certified one. Here are the top 5 reasons for hiring a certified locksmith.

1. They are trained

The first and probably the most important reason to hire a certified professional is that they are trained after which they get the certification. The certification requires some minimum qualification and experience in the particular field. Just like any other industry, certification in the locksmith industry also needs proper training. So, if you want someone to deal with your lock professionally and technically, make sure you hire a certified professional as they are trained to tackle the locks. They have to undergo accredited training at a registered training organization in order to get the certification.

2. You’re secure when they’re around

There may be many instances when the locksmiths replace the locks only to break in later because they have copies of the keys. Such incidents are less likely to happen to you if you hire a certified locksmith from a reliable company because they are usually members of bodies to ensure your safety. These bodies are responsible that locksmiths are reliable and delivery professional services. Our ‘100% Guaranteed Satisfaction Seal’ is the proof of our trust.

3. They’re available 24/7

No matter what time you have to deal with a locked door. You may find it with the first ray of sun or even during the mid-night. In such situations, a certified automotive locksmith is always available to help you with the best solutions without charging you additional for the instant services. They are available to help you deal with the poor performing door locks 24*7 and come to your location with a fully-loaded vehicle that comes with all the required tools to make the support available. With a certified locksmith at your service, you can rest assured knowing that the help will be there at your location with a solution right away.

4. They are insured

When you call professional locksmiths to deal with the malfunctioned locks, damages are likely to happen. The lock replacement and repair process can lead to the broken door, glass and even the broken lock itself. But if you have called a certified locksmith, you can rest assured of the damage as these professionals are bonded and insured which means they are able to pay for this kind of damage. With a certified locksmith, you will be protected from any damages that may take place when repairing or replacing the lock.

5. They are dependable during the emergencies

Not only calling a certified automotive locksmith important because he can help deal with the emergency situation professionally, but also because they ensure taking care of the professional standards as well. During the emergency situations, you need a professional that has a dependability to get you right away so you can stay assured of the professional services on time without worrying about the security.

 No matter how much experienced or trained a locksmith is, make sure to ask about the certification for better security. It is important because when hiring a locksmith, you putting your trust in someone to do take care of the safety of your belongings. Make sure to do some research before you reach the final decision.

Original Article: 5 Reasons Why You Should Always Hire a Certified Locksmith

Related Video Here: How to Choose a Locksmith Provider

Security must be always our topmost priority. Invest for your home locks and let Locksmith Vinings GA help you with this matter.

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Tips for Choosing a Locksmith

Facility management is a 24/7 job. So is security. Whether security is breached at 3 p.m. or 3 a.m., it's usually the facility manager who gets the first call. Quite often the locksmith gets the second call. Today, locksmiths do more than make keys – the modern facility manager needs to partner with a locksmith who can keep abreast of current technology.

Keyless Entry

Card Access

Employees at many companies carry a card with a magnetic strip or proximity capabilities. When swiped, the door reader accesses and verifies the digital credentials stored on the card and matches it against the data saved on a dedicated computer. If it jibes, the door unlocks. The key word here, no pun intended, is unlocks. This may be electronic access control, but it boils down to opening a locked door. The difference is the type of lock. A locksmith called to install or service such a card access system needs to be knowledgeable about magnetic locks, electric strikes, and electric locks.

Keypads

Keypads have been used for some time; however, various high-security buildings are now using a double credential system. The cardholder inserts the magnetic strip card but also has to enter a PIN. Again, the data is checked against the central computer. Keyboard locks are not mechanical, they are battery powered: the newest batteries are quite energy efficient — and it's not uncommon for one to last three or four years. Low power indicators signal when it's time for a new battery. Some have audible beeping, others, blinking lights — whichever it is, a delay replacing the battery can result in a company-wide lockout. A locksmith commissioned to remedy the situation should be an expert in stocking batteries and changing them. Since keypads may need occasional reprogramming, the locksmith should also be digitally knowledgeable.

Fireproof Safes

A safe should be bought only from a qualified locksmith who knows how to install it securely to avoid theft.  Organizing a maintenance schedule is highly recommended since nothing can bring a bank or jeweler's business to a screeching halt like a safe that will not open. A locksmith trained in safes should know how to replace a worn-out tumbler, adjust a door so it doesn't drag, or decipher a forgotten combination code. If desired, he should also be able to remove the lock and upgrade the safe with a digital entry system that uses a magnetic strip card or biometric verification access card.

Alarm and Surveillance Systems

A growing number of locksmiths are training to install and service electronic access control systems, as well as closed circuit television systems (CCTV), network-attached surveillance cameras and alarms. Some locksmiths will send a representative to examine the facility and design a comprehensive system.

With so many buildings employing computer network-attached security systems, a new breed of locksmith is branching out to service computer hardware and software, in addition to locks. No matter the job, it is essential that the locksmith you work with is professionally trained. For further research, here’s a look from the Associated Locksmiths of America of what you should expect from a skilled locksmith.

Original Article Here: Tips for Choosing a Locksmith

Related Video Here: Tips to remember while choosing Locksmith Company

Do you want to upgrade your home security system? Do you need a replacement for your car locks? Contact an expert! Call Locksmith Vinings GA anytime!

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Handy Tips And Advice For Finding A Locksmith

Locks and keys get into and out of things. They keep miscreants from going where they don’t belong. This article delves into the ways to find a lot of great information about locksmiths. Keep reading to learn all about locksmiths along with how you can find the right one for you.

 You want to be sure that you are not hiring anyone that is not working in your best interest. Some scammers will make their own copy of your permission.

 You should always know who to call if you don’t really think a locksmith is necessary. Research before you need one and find someone that can trust. Put a locksmith’s contact number of the locksmith into your phone so it is always available to you.

 Avoid additional fees by calling the locksmith during regular hours. The cost of locksmith services that are required after hours. The after hours fees can almost double on services you need.

 Do not use any locksmith who charges more than you expected. There are too many scammers out there who want to rip you to deal with one that is not upfront and honest with you.

 One of the first questions to ask when calling a new locksmith is how many years they have ran their business has been around. Make sure that they’ve been doing operations from this location the same location. A quality company has been in an area for at least five to ten years.

 There are quite a few websites that contain reviews of consumer services. Make sure review websites are not run by a locksmith. Check the BBB before you hire a locksmith.

 Look for your locksmith before you actually need one. Waiting until after an emergency to call one will really limit your choices. You also end up having to settle for someone that doesn’t have a good reputation will get the keys to where you live.

 Ask any locksmith how long they’ve been doing business. If it is a long time, chances are they are reliable and trustworthy. Although not all novice locksmiths are untrustworthy, caution should be taken.

 Do not hire the first locksmith that you consider. You should always get at least three locksmiths before choosing a locksmith. This will allow you understand what the average charge is.

 Beware of any locksmith who claims they need to drill out your lock or replace it if you find yourself locked out.

 You can Google search for you.Don’t be too embarrassed by this since it can protect you better than just installing additional locks! If you aren’t comfortable with them, call the firm that sent the locksmith and request a substitute.

 Locksmith service calls are more expensive if you have to call them after regular business hours. Some people take advantage and use this to charge unreasonable rates. You can drastically cut your bill by getting a locksmith.

 Some have experience with alarm systems too.

 If you aren’t satisfied with the services, make your displeasure known immediately. If you do not, you may no longer have any recourse. If the company will not help you, contact the local consumer protection office in your area.

 Find locksmiths that have been around for long track record of work in your community. If they haven’t been around for at least several years, have them provide you with references. Look them up their name and prior location on the Internet to see if you can find any customer reviews.

 Identify the type of service you have been locked out. Have you left your keys inside the car? This will need to be handled in a lot different manner than if your keys have been stolen.

 If they don’t give you a straight answer, it’s time to find another locksmith.

 It’s hard for them to give you a number that’s exact numbers without actually seeing the damage.

 Emergencies hit at the worst possible moment, and securing a locksmith in advance can help you feel some peace of mind.Find out what his rates are for emergency situations. There may be fees, so you can get past any surprises before they come.

 Ask your locksmith about how secure your home is. Locksmiths know a lot on home security because that’s the type of work they do. They have the advice on whether you’re protected enough for your protection in your neighborhood. They may also upgrade your home’s security if need be.

 When you are getting any estimate from a locksmith, inquire about what they charge under the worst circumstances.

 Don’t get a locksmith who won’t give you proof of proper insurance. If something bad happens and you have damage to your property, then their insurance is what will cover how much money these things will cost you. Only go with a locksmith who has full insurance.

 If you see an ad promising that a locksmith beats any price, call them up and enquire about their terms. You may need to get quotes from many different locksmiths.

 There is no overstating the critical nature of keys and locks. Too often, you learn the value of a locksmith under less than ideal circumstances. Utilize the tips from this piece to get yourself ready for anything.

 Original Article Here: Handy Tips And Advice For Finding A Locksmith

Related Video Here: Tips for Picking a Good Locksmith

 When choosing locksmith to hire, always consider the reviews from their past clients. Locksmith Vinings GA already earned high-rated good reviews coming from their customers. Be one of them!

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Locksmith Vinings GA - Various Kinds of Locks

Locks are one of the best ways to protect your property from any kind of trespassers or burglars. We know just the place where you can purchase the best locks at the best prices: Locksmith Vinings GA, a company in Vinings, GA. Our solutions are exceptional for everyone including business owners, homeowners and even industrial property owners. If you have valuable possessions that need to be secured, we are the company you need – but don’t worry, if you aren’t in the area, you are sure to be able to find a great team by you. Our locks, like other locksmiths, come in various sizes, shapes and prices and can be used to protect any kind of property effectively.

There are so many choices of locks on the market that buyers often get confused. Locks are not that complicated and most people can easily figure out what kind of lock they need. To help you out, we have put together more information about the various kinds of locks our company (and others like us) have to offer:  

How to Choose the Best Lock

There are usually just three factors you need to consider when you want to purchase a lock for your residential or commercial property. When it comes to replacing locks, things are a lot easier. You will instantly figure out what kind of lock you need simply by looking at the old lock. However, buying a new lock or upgrading an old lock is usually a lot more problematic. Most people don’t know which lock is better for their needs. There are also so many choices that you may feel overwhelmed. You are not a professional locksmith, so it is only normal to have questions.

Here are the three factors you need to pay attention to when choosing new locks for your property:

What is your budget?

This is one of the most important things you need to consider if you want to purchase new locks or upgrade old ones. Your budget usually determines the quality of the lock because more secure locks are usually more expensive. Cheaper locks will still work, of course, but they are generally not as secure as their more expensive counterparts. As you know, price usually reflects quality. This applies to locks as well. This is why it is very important that you set a budget for the task and try to work with it. You can use more expensive locks for areas that are more important, for example, and cheaper locks for non-critical areas.

Where will you use the new locks?

The place where you will use the locks dictates which types of locks you require. For example, if you want to secure a piece of furniture, you won’t use deadbolts or knob locks; you will most probably use a furniture lock. Also, before you go out to purchase the locks, make sure you know exactly how many you need. This means you need to evaluate your property and decide where each lock will be placed. This way, you avoid spending money on some locks you may not need.

If you are not sure which locks to use, you can do some research on the Internet or simply give us a call. Locksmith Vinings Company in Vinings, Georgia offers free consultations, so you can count on our locksmiths to explain everything to you in detail. In most cases we will also have the required locks in stock.

Decide on the level of protection you need from your new locks.

Don’t underestimate the importance of the level of protection of a lock. It is a very important thing that you need to pay attention to. It all depends on the place where the lock will go. For example, interior doors don’t need as much protection as exterior doors. As such, you can buy cheaper locks for interior doors, but don’t go cheap on locks meant for exterior ones! If your neighborhood is relatively safe, you may not need multiple locks on your door; one will suffice. Another great tip is to avoid buying a lock just because it looks pretty; pay attention to the level of protection it offers.

The Benefits of Locks

Now that you know how to pick a lock and why specific locks are more suited for some places than others, let’s talk about the benefits locks offer to you as a business owner or a homeowner.

Locks protect you and your loved ones

As you may already be aware, locks offer you protection and help you feel safe in your own home or at the office. The amount of protection offered depends on the type of locks you use.

There are dozens of lock models and types on the market today. Some offer more protection than others, even though they are usually more expensive. Electronic locks take the spotlight when it comes to protection. Technology advances were applied to these locks, making them some of the best on the market when it comes to the level of protection they offer.

You have plenty of choices when it comes to locks

If you need to purchase a lock, you don’t have to stick to the traditional ones anymore. There are so many makes and models of locks nowadays that you are sure to find at least one that looks beautiful and offers the amount of protection you need. And because they are so diverse, you can surely find at least a few locks that also fall in your target price range.

It may take you a bit longer to find a great lock, but it is always better to have more options than a single one.

You can find locks at a wide variety of prices

You can be sure that you will find at least one lock in your budget. It may not be the best for the task you need it for, but you will be able to buy a lock in any case.

If you need to buy new locks, replace old locks, or upgrade existing locks in Georgia, you should pay us a visit at Locksmith Vinings GA here in beautiful Vinings. Our professionals are very experienced at installing, repairing and replacing any type of lock on any property. Our lock and security services are very comprehensive, so just give us a call if you need a reliable locksmith!

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5 Ways In Which An Emergency Auto Locksmith Can Prove Useful

Careless, preoccupied, forgetful, mistake … are the increasing list of excuses after which one ends up badly needing the help of an auto locksmith. It is rightly said that people commit more mistakes when they are in a restless state of mind. This is the reason why a lot of people misplace or lose their car keys when they are in a hurry. Not being able to find the keys of your car can be really annoying, particularly when you have to go somewhere urgently; or you have left something important inside the car and now you cannot open the doors.

In such cases, you need to hire the services of an emergency auto locksmith. An auto locksmith is a professional who is skilled in unlocking the doors of almost any vehicle, particularly 4-wheelers. In the present time, it is no more difficult to hire the services of an auto locksmith. However, finding one who can provide instant service, even during odd hours of the day or night is important. An emergency locksmith can help you in many ways. Below are some of the good reasons for hiring their services.

Why hire an emergency auto locksmith?

No damage to your car- The experienced auto locksmiths have all the necessary tools and gadgets to unlock the door of almost any car. Within a matter of just a few minutes they can easily open the door of your car. In this way, your car can be saved from getting damaged by amateurs who may attempt to fix the job.

Lightening fast service- The auto locksmiths that provide emergency services can really impress you with their promptness. All you have to do is give them a call, and will be right at your door step very quickly. In fact, if the locksmith runs a mobile shop then you can expect their arrival in just few minutes. You have to keep the contact numbers of a few auto locksmiths from your locality saved in your phone. You can also browse their website and get the contact number.

Duplicate keys- The locksmiths are not only capable of unlocking doors, but they can help you with duplicate keys as well. Sometimes more than one member of a family might use the car. In such cases, it is better to get a couple of duplicate keys prepared in advance, which will make things much convenient. So, it is better to contact an auto locksmith and get these things done.

Upgrade the lock system- It may happen that you are required to visit some other city, and you want to take your car with you. In such cases, it is better to add more security to the locking mechanism of your car. In this regard, you can get the services of an emergency auto locksmith and get the locking system upgraded instantly. This will surely make your car more secure.

Insured services- Most of the reputed auto locksmiths provide their services with proper insurance coverage. This insurance coverage provides good amount of protection to the clients of the auto locksmith. In case something goes wrong during the process of unlocking the car, you can rest assured that the losses will be covered.

You must take a good look into the portfolio of the locksmith before hiring one. In addition, comparing the fees charged by the various locksmiths is also essential in ensuring they are affordable. Make a background check about their past projects, to make sure you are not hiring a fly-by-night operator or a history-sheeter. Therefore, be a little patient and choose wisely.

Original Article Here: 5 Ways In Which An Emergency Auto Locksmith Can Prove Useful

Related Article Here: Reasons to Hire an Emergency Auto Locksmith

Got an emergency auto lock problems? Call Locksmith Vinings GA. They will arrive at your place immediately!

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TIPS FROM REAL BURGLARS FOR SECURING YOUR HOME

What better way to learn how to protect your home from burglars than from burglars themselves? Nicholas Kyriazis was a burglar who has broken into and burglarized at least 100 homes. Now he is giving tips on how he did it and how you can prevent yourself from being targeted by other criminals.

Note: Nicholas Kyriazis has no affiliation with Hawk Security and these tips were extricated from a previous interview he had given.

·        Have a neighbor collect your mail when you’re away. Uncollected mail in the mailbox signals to burglars that no one is home.

·        Leave your car in the driveway or right out in front of your home. “If there are no cars in the driveway, there’s a good chance there is no one home,” Kyriazis says.

·        Thieves often strike in the morning.  While most people may think they are most vulnerable at night, while they are sleeping or when it’s dark out, Kyriazis says he typically burgled homes between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. More than half of convicted burglars surveyed by WNBC in New York also said they targeted homes in the morning. This is a great reason to make sure you have an alarm system set before heading off to work.

·        Have a neighbor watch your house.  Kyriazis called neighborhood watch “one of the best things they ever started for burglary prevention.” Your home security service will install security cameras around your property, but it isn’t always enough. Having extra eyes watching throughout the neighborhood is key to preventing crime.

·        Lock up when you leave. “I’ve never carried burglary tools,” Kyriazis says. Many people leave doors and windows unlocked, and thieves take advantage. Prevent anyone from getting easy access to your home by locking up, no matter how short your trip and no matter how safe you think your neighborhood is.

·        Dogs can be a good deterrent. Kyriazis says a barking dog would give him pause because he didn’t know what kind of dog he was about to face. This is a potential threat intruders cannot get past and sometimes that’s enough to dissuade them.

·        Never engage a burglar. Thieves and experts agree that if you come upon a burglary in progress, the best option is to leave, find a safe place, and call 911 immediately.  If you confront a burglar, he, or she, may panic and attack. Even if the burglar gets away, it’s not worth risking your life.

Keep these tips in mind when protecting your home and prevent your house from being an easy target.

Original Article Here: TIPS FROM REAL BURGLARS FOR SECURING YOUR HOME

Related Article Here: Public Safety Experts: A Look at Home Security

Afraid of home burglary? Always check your locks and home security system! Locksmith Vinings GA is here to help you!

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5 Tips to Finding a Locksmith You Can Trust

When dealing with an emergency like getting locked out of your home, you simply don't have time to search for the best locksmith. While I've used this argument for building a team of contractors so you're prepared for emergencies, my list has never included a locksmith. After reading Top Tips to Avoid Locksmith Scams, I knew it was important to share these tips on finding a locksmith you can trust. That's because home security is a key element of home safety,

PS Thought it was fun showing a door with an old fashion, skeleton key lock.

Finding a Locksmith Tip #1: Timing

Your home is your castle and you want to protect it. A good time to find a locksmith is right after you buy your home. Changing your locks is the only way you know that others don't have keys to your home. You're already researching other contractors for your home management team, so add a locksmith to your list.

Alternatively, you might switch to one of the new smart locks, that lets you track everyone entering your home. Before you buy your smart lock, consider all the other smart products you'll be buying. You want smart products that work together, or connect through a common Internet hub.

Finding a Locksmith Tip #2: Verify the Business

Once you've found a locksmith, research the business online. Confirm they're using a local address (Google maps will show you what it looks like). Check their online reviews. Call them outside normal working hours to insure they've got phone coverage for emergencies.

When talking to the office, ask questions about their process. How does their pricing work? Will they give you a rough estimates over the phone? Are their locksmiths licensed? Will they give you the name of the locksmith being sent to your home?

Finding a Locksmith Tip #3: Ask for Identification

When the locksmith arrives at your home, the most important thing to do is check their identification. All licensed locksmiths have a Master Security License Number. This number should be displayed on their vehicle and their photo identity card. If they say they're licensed but don't have their card, I'd suggest sending them on their way.

Finding a Locksmith Tip #4: Get a Written Estimate

After the locksmith has reviewed the situation, they should be able to give you a written estimate. That's how my handyman business worked. First we'd build a list of projects over the phone. Then we'd estimate how much time everything would take, which allowed us to give a rough estimate. After our handyman technicians reviewed the work, they'd confirm or adjust the estimate.

Before you decide to replace your own door lock, consider the cost of the tools and hardware, in addition to your time. Locksmith estimates may include the following:

Service fees including transportation and additional charges for emergency service outside normal business hours. My handyman business charged a flat “trip fee” that covered our time to drive to/from the job site.

Hardware fees if a lock has to be replaced (lock and strike plate) or re-keyed. According to Improvement.com “If a locksmith tells you the locking mechanism needs to be replaced, you may want to get a second opinion.”

Make sure you have an opportunity to review, approve and sign-off on the estimate before work starts. This will help avoid questions at the end of the job.

Finding a Locksmith Tip #5: Pay via Credit Card

All legitimate businesses today take credit cards. It's the safest way to pay because you're protected against fraud. Never pay cash as there's no way to trace it, and no recourse. And with today's smart phones, there are lots of devices like the “Square” that enable payments through the phone (shown above).

Original Article Here: 5 Tips to Finding a Locksmith You Can Trust

Related Article Here: How to Find a Good Locksmith

Are you in doubt of other locksmith services around you? Looking for a reliable and affordable locksmith service? Don’t hesitate to contact Locksmith Vinings GA and you will find your satisfaction in their services!

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Nine must know tips to secure your home

Whenever you are planning a well-deserved holiday break make sure your home is secure before you set out on your journey.

Bianca de Beer, spokesman for Dialdirect Insurance urged homeowners to ensure that their home security is top-notch before going away.

“According to the SA Victims of Crime Survey 2016, unguarded doors and windows greatly increase your risk for burglaries and break-ins.

“Of the 30 000 people surveyed, 44.8 per cent stated that burglars entered their homes by smashing a door and 34.2 per cent said they got in through a window.

“Interestingly, the days are also long gone when criminals mostly waited for the dark of night for cover, with 24.3 per cent of these break-ins occurring in the afternoon,” said de Beer.

With this in mind, having burglar bars fixed to all opening windows and security gates fitted to all external doors is no longer a nice to have – it’s become essential.

Here are some other things you can do to ensure you find home in the exact same state you left it in before going on holiday.

First check that you are properly covered on your insurance policy for all of your household items.

The amount for which you have insured the contents of your home should be equivalent to the amount it would cost to replace all the items with new items, at today’ prices.

Make sure you have an up-to-date inventory list of all your household possessions.

Most insurance companies will also recommend that you have an alarm system installed that is linked to a reliable armed response company.

Even with both of these measures in place, the lack of a human presence in your home is always obvious from outside. The best way to ensure peace of mind is to employ a house sitter. A house that’s occupied is almost always safer than a house that’s empty. See if you can get a trusted friend or relative to stay at your home while you are away.

Curtains being opened and closed, lights being switched on and off and the presence of a car in the driveway are all signs that people are coming and going.

If nobody will be house sitting, it’s worth your while to put your lights on a timer, and in several rooms. Set the timer to turn on the living room lights at sunset, as you would if you were home.

Cut back any trees or bushes that obscure your front door or driveway. These could be used as hiding places.

Clean up in the garden and be sure to lock away spades, rakes and other tools which could conceivably be used to break a window or gain entry into your home.

De Beer also reminds homeowners that upgrading their home security could result in lower home contents insurance premiums.

“The level of security in your home is one of the underwriting conditions that goes into determining your monthly premium. If your home is safer, your risk profile decreases and your premium could be reduced as well,” she said.

Original Article Here: Nine must know tips to secure your home

Related Article Here:  14 ways to make your home more secure

Locksmith Vinings GA is always ready to cater all your home security needs. Call them now!

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Keyless entry for cars - what you need to know

Keyless entry - it’s all the rage. Why even my Renault has it. And you can see why it’s proving popular as you rarely have to get the key (if it should still be called a key) out of your pocket or bag and the car just unlocks, starts, drives and locks again after.

But is there a downside? Yes, in a word - security. For example, devices are available that boost the signal between the car and fob that can then mean the car thinks the owner is within proximity and allows the doors to be opened, belongings to be removed and potentially for the car to be started and driven away aka stolen.

This seems to be what happened to a colleague of mine. His brand new E-Class was parked outside a restaurant with the fob inside about 10 yards away from the car which should mean it’s out of range. The car was taken without any fuss or commotion. It appears that some security function did kick as the car was later found in a nearby car park, apparently having gone into limp home mode but it could easily have been put on a truck never to be seen again.

Fortunately, the insurance companies don’t seem to be treating these vehicles as higher risk and therefore there’s no current impact on premiums but a flood of claims could easily change this status.

There’s another potential issue when a car is shared by two or more drivers. Another friend of mine was test driving a BMW for a few days. On one of the days her other half drove initially and then she took over the driving, leaving him at home. The engine wasn’t stopped as he got out and she moved seats. You can probably guess where this is going. A straightforward drive to Meadowhall was followed by a straightforward bit of retail therapy followed by returning to a locked car that wouldn’t have started even if the doors had managed to be opened. The fob had to be brought to the car in another vehicle. Fortunately it wasn’t late at night and the car was in a safe place but it could have been very different.

What can you do to avoid such problems?

To avoid unwanted entry and theft, there may be a few options. With my car, if I lock it using the physical button on the fob, it has to be unlocked by pressing the other fob button which gets round the unwanted third party entry problem. But I forget to do this and other brands may work differently. I’m told that wrapping the key in aluminium foil blocks the signal and this could be an option if you have a spare key at home that rarely used but it’s hardly a solution for the main fob. You can also buy RFID blocking bags or cases quite cheaply but this also means you effectively have to stop using the keyless element as you’ll have to take the key out of the wrapper to either press the button or for the vehicle to pick up the signal.

I’m not sure what the short term answer is to completing a journey without the key that started the engine other than both drivers constantly carrying their keys but that’s not the solution if there are 3 or more drivers as cars tend to come with two keys only. Maybe we just have to remember to leave the key when swapping drivers but it’s not exactly foolproof.

Long term though the onus is on the manufacturers to beef up the security or ditch the technology. It could be simple improvements like the ability to switch off keyless entry or constant warnings if the key leaves the car whilst the engine is on. Tracker technology that kicks in if the car or van is driven without the key wouldn’t prevent theft but would facilitate recovery. Whilst most cars don’t have trackers fitted, factory fitted satnav which is fairly standard now does provide the basic technology. Perhaps the answer will be something such as fingerprint or retina identification of authorized drivers with the system reset every time the driver’s seat is vacated.

Original Article Here: Keyless entry for cars - what you need to know

Related Video Here: Keyless Entry

If you are looking for a help regarding with your keyless entry for your cars, contact Locksmith Vinings GA anytime!

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Find Out How an Automotive Locksmith Service Can Assist You

Losing your keys is one of the worst situations that can happen to anyone. No one likes the morning madness of turning the entire house upside down just to search the keys. While misplacing car keys is quite normal, losing them can be stressful. There are times when people just give up and have to call on a professional automotive locksmith. According to a recent survey conducted by the American Automobile Association, more than 4,000,000 calls are made by locked-out drivers every year for locksmith services.

With the advancements in technology, the services of automotive locksmiths have reached new heights. Their services vary from lock picking, replacing lost keys, key duplication, key cutting, lock repairs, transponder key installation, etc. Almost everyone requires automotive locksmith services at least once in their life. Some people usually faint when they find themselves in a situation where they have lost the car keys or broken it while unlocking the ignition. If you ever find yourself in a situation where you are locked out of your car, the best thing you can do is contact a reliable automotive locksmith who can come to your aid in no time.

Some of the important services offered by an automotive locksmith include:

Key Replacement – Losing car keys can be devastating and stressful, especially if you don’t have spare ones. This is where automotive locksmith services come in handy. For instance, you’re down on Thoroughbred Street watching some live music at your favorite lounge. After the show, you realize that you can’t find your car keys anywhere. Let’s say you can’t really afford to have your car towed. Well, there’s no reason to be worried, a reliable automotive locksmith can get you back on the road without even having to tow the car. Not only will you save money but you will also save time.

Emergency Lockout Rescue – A common problem that almost every car owner faces while getting out of the car is forgetting the car keys inside the car. Imagine being locked out of the car alone at the late hours of the night. An automotive locksmith can help you at any hour. The usual options that come to mind in that situation are to either break the window or call the mechanic. But there is no need for that, an automotive locksmith can help get you out of your situation without any damage to your vehicle.

Key Duplication – Key duplication is one of the most common services offered by automotive locksmiths. Over the past few years, different types of locks are being introduced as a result of developments in technology. However, the functionality of the keys has become complicated with time. An automotive locksmith can aid you by duplicating any of these keys.

Cars these days come with a built-in micro chip in the key known as a transponder. If you’re facing any issues with the key try getting it rectified by replacing batteries. If this issue persists there must be some problem with a glitch of the chip which can only be fixed by a trained automotive locksmith.

Original Article Here: Find Out How an Automotive Locksmith Service Can Assist You

Related Video Here: Automotive Locksmith Overview

Locksmith Vinings GA has you covered for all of your security concerns. Reach out to us if you would like to schedule a free consultation, or if you would like to have someone come out to inspect your property.

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Easy Home Security Tips

With March Break coming up, the security of your home is at an all-time high. Breaks ins are common around times when many families will be taking time off to enjoy sunnier destinations. Your home’s security should always be a top priority, so we’ve put together some easy tips to make sure your home is protected whether you’re away on vacation or just out for the day.

Alarm systems:

For those in houses, this is often the first step towards a more secure home. When considering installing a new alarm system, opt for one with concealed wiring. If a burglar can clearly see the wires, they can easily disconnect them. To find out more about the best alarm system for your home, check out this article for a more in-depth breakdown.

Locks:

It’s important to always lock your door, whether you’re in a house, condo or apartment. Even when going out for a short time, like going down to the laundry or to check your mail. It only takes a minute for a burglar to walk in, take something and walk out. It’s also a good idea to install new locks when you move into a new place. While a locksmith can seem expensive upfront, you’ll be glad you invested in this added measure of security.

Doors:

Having the right door is important when it comes to the security of your home. Be sure to have a front door that is solid and cannot be kicked in. A solid wood door is your best bet, but there are other options out there, such as metal and fibreglass. Make sure there is no space between your door and the frame, as even the slightest gap leaves room for an intruder to use a tool to get in. Find a professional to reinforce the door frame if you’re concerned about this. Also, be sure to check that the door hinges are on the inside of your home. If not, take down the door and reset the hinges as exposed hinges are an easy target.

Balcony and Patio Doors:

Always keep your balcony and patio doors locked when they’re not in use. An easy way you can add further security is to place something in the track of the sliding door. This could be a store bought device, a metal bar or pipe, or a common household object like a broom handle or even a hockey stick. Anything that makes it harder to slide the door open will help to ensure the door stays closed even if the lock is compromised.

Original Article Here: Easy Home Security Tips

Related Article Here: Do It Yourself Home Security

Looking for a trusted locksmith for you home, car and business? Locksmith Vinings GA is a good choice!

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Troubleshooting Door Lock Problems

What does troubleshooting door lock problems involve? Before you decide that a door lock is not working, you need to make sure that the door is adjusted properly. If the dood is adjusted, then you can troubleshoot the locks and deadbolts.

Adjusting the Door

Many times the complaint is about the door hardware. It always seems to be the thing that is not working. Like a medical problem, this is what we call a symtom.

Door hardware only works properly on a door that is aligned the way it should be. The tolerances on doors and hardware is fairly narrow. If a door is sagging, the lock will not latch correctly. Not really the fault of the lock.

Before you consider replacing door hardware, you want to make sure the door is adjusted to allow the hardware to work. See the articles 'Adjusting Exterior Doors' and 'Interior Door Adjustment' for instructions on getting the door in proper alignment.

This usually indicates that the strike plate needs to be adjusted or the door strike is sticking and needs to be lubricated. The door strike is spring loaded and flat on one side. It needs to spring into the recess in the door strike to keep the door closed.

A door that is sagging may cause the door strike to hit the strike plate to low, not allowing it to spring into place. Check the margins on the door. Is the top of the door closer to the jamb on the strike side of the door? If so the door is sagging.

A sagging door needs to be adjusted. See the articles 'Adjusting Exterior Doors' and 'Interior Door Adjustment' for information on how to adjust a door.

The Door Latch is Sticking

When the strike is lined up correctly and still won't keep the door closed you want to make sure it is working. Use your finger to check it. Depress the door strike and let go. It should pop back out freely.

 Find it useful? Continue reading at Troubleshooting Door Lock Problems.

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Here Is How to Fend Off a Hijacking of Home Devices

MODERN homes today are getting internet-connected light bulbs, thermostats, TVs and speakers. So with a simple voice command or the touch of a button on our smartphones, we can set the temperature, turn on a light or prepare the TV to record a program.

What could go wrong?

A lot more than most people are prepared for, it turns out. If one of these devices gets hijacked, hackers could potentially snoop around for sensitive data like financial or health information. Or they could use a network of compromised devices to perform a widespread attack that takes down major websites, which is what happened last October.

The good news is that so far, online attacks on home devices are relatively uncommon. Only 10 percent of American consumers said they were victims of the crime in a recent study done for the Hartford Steam Boiler Inspection and Insurance Company. However, those who experienced such an attack through their home gadgets reported losses of $1,000 to $5,000 from the incidents.

“There’s still this whole sort of, ‘Gee whiz, it’s so cool’ thing that’s going on” with internet-connected home appliances, said Lee Tien, a lawyer for the Electronic Frontier Foundation, a nonprofit that focuses on digital rights. “That’s also what often gets us into trouble.”

Continue reading at Here Is How to Fend Off a Hijacking of Home Devices.

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Safe Home Security System Features To Look For

There is no point in buying a security system for your home if it is not very good. Since the security and safety of your family depends on the choice you make, you should work hard to avoid mistakes during the purchasing process. Do not do any of the following when you are on your search for a safe home security system.

 Home security concept. House with lock and chain. 3dBuying the least expensive option means that you may not end up with a safe home security system. It is not necessary for you to spend an arm and a leg in order to ensure the proper level of home security, but trying to be a spendthrift is not a wise decision. Do you really want to put everyone in your home at risk because you were interested in saving a few dollars?

 Being unwilling to install the system on your own is a mistake you should try your best to avoid. This may seem like a task that is far more technologically advanced than you are prepared to handle, but many of today’s systems are actually quite simple to install. In some cases, it is as easy as adding an app to your smartphone and following step-by-step instructions.

 Signing long contracts with security companies is unwise. Sometimes providers will offer equipment at hugely discounted rates because they plan to lock you into a contract that is especially lengthy. A 1-2 year contract is fairly typical, but watch out for those that require you to remain a customer for 3-5 years. If you end up dissatisfied and you want to break the contract, you will end up paying hefty fees.

 Choosing the first system you come across that looks promising is not a good idea. Even if it is actually as great as advertised, there might be another option out there that is more favorable. There is no law that states you have to consider a bunch of options before narrowing the options down to one, but you should consider at least three companies. This will increase the chances of finding a company you will be satisfied with.

 To continue reading, visit Safe Home Security System Features To Look For.

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HOW TO PICK A LOCKED DOOR: USEFUL TIPS AND TRICKS

One of the best ways to protect yourself and your family is to ensure that your home is properly secured regardless if you are there or not. Majority, if not all, of homes today come with some form of locking mechanism whose main purpose is to keep intruders out and keep valuables in.

Locks are often placed on doors, windows and any other implement that would serve as the ingress or egress of the structure with the homeowner having at least one or two keys on them and a couple more that are strategically placed around the general perimeter in case they lose or forget their main keys.

 Most people who don’t want to take risks employ two or more door locks to better protect themselves and their property. Some even go to the extent of using multiple lock systems for even greater protection. With society progressing as it is, door lock technology have remained almost the same for the past decade with electronic locking systems being introduced just recently. Traditional locks are still the preferred system as they are more reliable, flexible and do not rely on electricity for their locking potential to be used.

 Electronic door locking systems offer great value if you are in an area where electricity is constantly flowing and blackouts are unheard but a disadvantage for using them is its complexity, the additional power and very specific structural and electrical requirements which does not always fit into one’s budget and/or taste.

 Traditional locking systems are purely mechanical and rely on a combination of simple machines to work without the need for electricity and circuit boards. Traditional locks have few disadvantages which includes being easy to pick and owners consistently losing their keys.

 Several homeowners deploy multiple locking systems to compliment their traditional doors and they also order extra sets of keys just in case they lose their keys when they go out. Some enterprising owners, however, have taken the tasks of learning how to pick a locked door just in case something goes awry and they lose all their keys.

 To continue reading visit HOW TO PICK A LOCKED DOOR: USEFUL TIPS AND TRICKS.