(Newswire.net – January 15, 2013) Humble, TX- Humble businessman, John Hopper, reminds locals to get a firm quote and check for a state license before paying an automotive locksmith. Many local residents are reporting being “ripped-off” by locksmiths who advertise rates as low as $19. “I don’t know any reputable locksmith who will even show up for $19.”
A running theme shows local residents losing a car key or locking their keys into their car. In a state of panic, they look up a locksmith online. Instead of finding a locksmith in the Houston, Spring, or Humble, TX area, they find a call center located out of state.
“These out of state folk purchase local telephone numbers and con people into thinking they are right here in TX, but in reality they aren’t even locksmiths. They farm out the work and you don’t know who they are sending,” states Hopper. Location however is not the only con.
Area residents report receiving bills of over $200 after being quoted only $19 on the phone. The residents are inclined to pay up so they can get back into their car and on the road; but are thy over-paying? Hopper says that unless there is significant damage to the car and lock, “Any reputable locksmith will give you a firm quote over the phone.” You shouldn’t have to pay someone over the phone just get them to come out.
Stranded residents are often told the initial $19 payment will be put towards any work that they do and then are grossly under quoted for work. It could take several hours for a locksmith to arrive and a customer who has already paid $19 is not likely going to turn away a high price just to start the price over again.
The state of Texas has required locksmiths to be licensed and bonded since the beginning of 2004. , Fingerprints and criminal history checks are performed as part of the application process to ensure they do not have criminal convictions. A locksmith license should be shown on any advertisements, and on the locksmith’s website and vehicle. Texas residents can verify a locksmith license by visiting the Texas Department of Public Safety.
Many individuals and companies are still performing services without the required license and the required criminal history check. Hopper warns that giving an unlicensed locksmith access to your car puts you at risk of criminal acts.
About Hopper Lock
Hopper Lock locksmith services Humble, Spring, and Houston area residents. As a mobile locksmith, they work exclusively as an automotive locksmith .
Hopper Lock
Humble, TEXAS 77380
Phone: 281-507-3219
Website: http://www.Hopperlock.com/
Media Contact Name: John Hopper