San Rafael, CA , October 18, 2022 – Losing your keys is one of the worst things that can happen, but it happens more often than you think. It’s not something that only happens to people who are forgetful or careless—it happens to everyone at some point. Locksmiths usually fashion new keys from your old ones so what happens when you’ve lost all your spare keys? Read on to find out what you can do if you ever get stuck in this situation.
What should you do if you lose your keys?
Lets first explore the steps you can take once you lose your keys before anything else. The first obvious thing to do is try to find them. If it’s a key to a door, check under the mat or on top of the door frame for a spare key that may have been left there. If you have an electronic key fob, check inside your purse or wallet for it. If you’ve exhausted all hiding places then read on.
For Car Keys, the first option for some people are to call their Car Manufacturers. The reason for this is that Car Key Fobs or remotes usually have specific programming that is unique to each car. Some even consider the warranty clauses. This option is not always convenient if there is a waiting time involved that depends on the scheduling and the office hours.
For House Keys, try to find any open doors and get in before calling a locksmith.
The most obvious next step, if you weren’t successful is to call a trusted Locksmith like Tal-Niv Locksmith Services .
What you should know before calling the Locksmith
Before calling a locksmith, it’s important that you know what you’re looking for. Here are some things to keep in mind when searching for the right one:
- The full address of the home or business you need help with. That way, they can make sure they can get to your place easily and quickly.
- A detailed description of your car’s location so they can find it quickly and efficiently (like “On 4th Street between Main and Elm”). If there is no sign on their vehicle, ask them what kind of car they drive so that other drivers aren’t misled by someone impersonating a legitimate locksmith.
- Obviously you would need the number of a 24/7 Emergency Locksmith that you can trust. Tal-Niv Locksmith Services offers 24/7 Emergency Locksmith services that fit any of your needs.
What you should prepare
There are a few things you should prepare before calling a locksmith. First, make sure you have proof that you live at the house or own the car—you may need to show your driver’s license, social security card and an ID from your neighborhood association (if applicable). You may also need proof of ownership for other items like storage unit keys. Do not forget any documentation that proves who was last in possession of these keys—a friend or relative who gave them to you might be able to vouch for your authenticity.
Finally, clear out your schedule for the next couple of hours or ask how long it will take for your new keys to be made and make time in your schedule before canceling plans with friends or family members. Who knows it might only take a while.
The Process
Calling the locksmith
Call your trusted locksmith. Don’t just call anyone you don’t know because you could end up with more problems than you started with. You might face a criminal pretending to be a locksmith or hire a locksmith who is not trained enough (who might just end up destroying your car or house). Call Tal-Niv Locksmith Services so you can be sure that you’re in good hands.
Giving directions
Provide them with the complete address. Give landmarks and special directions if needed.
Assessing your situation
The locksmith might go through your proof of ownership before starting. Then, he/she will assess if the lock can be re-keyed, opened, or if they would need to replace the locks.
Giving a quote
The quote would depend on the assessment that they make. Additional costs might be added for services like drilling extra holes or providing a new set of lock and keys.
Accepting the quote
By the time you call the Locksmith, you should have already asked for a rough estimate to have an idea if the price will be in your budget range. If the price sounds shady or too much you can compare with some prices online and maybe explain this to them so you can come to a reasonable price. If the prices seem like a reasonable quote then accept it so the locksmith can start working as soon as possible.
Replacing your lost keys
Locksmiths can try to get the lock and dismantle it, they will analyze the pins, and make a key that will fit into the lock. The faster and most common route is to insert a blank key and turn it so that the lock will leave marks where the key needs to be cut and filed.
Need a Locksmith you can trust?
If you live in San Rafael, CA and are in need of a locksmith service that you can trust, Tal-Niv Locksmith Services is available 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. We offer emergency services to our clients at affordable rates.
If you have lost your keys and need to get into your home or car, give us a call. We can help you out with any locksmith service that you may need. Our technicians are very experienced in their field and will be able to provide quality services at affordable prices.