What Locksmiths Wish You Knew About Emergency Calls

It's 2 AM. You're locked out of your house. Your phone battery is at 5%. You Google "emergency locksmith near me" and call the first number. Thirty minutes later, you're facing a $500 bill for what should have been a $150 service.

This scenario happens every day across Maryland. As professional locksmiths, we want you to know how to protect yourself during an emergency locksmith situation. Here's everything we wish customers knew before they called for help.

The Locksmith Scam Epidemic

Let's address the elephant in the room: locksmith scams are rampant, especially during emergency calls.

How the Scam Works:

1. Fake Listings: Scammers create dozens of fake Google listings with local addresses they don't occupy

2. Bait Pricing: They quote $40-60 over the phone

3. Switch Tactics: Upon arrival, they claim the job is "more complicated" and demand $300-800

4. Pressure Tactics: They're aggressive, threatening to leave you stranded if you don't pay

5. Cash Only: They insist on immediate cash payment with no receipt

6. Damage: They often drill out locks unnecessarily, claiming they're "high-security"

The Real Statistics:

Red Flags That You're Dealing with a Scammer

Before someone arrives at your property, watch for these warning signs:

During the Phone Call:

When They Arrive:

After Service:

If you encounter these red flags, do not let them proceed with work. It's better to call someone else than to be victimized.

What to Ask BEFORE They Arrive

Protect yourself by asking these questions during the initial phone call:

1. "What is your company's physical address?"

Legitimate locksmiths have real storefronts or verifiable business addresses. Google the address they provide—scammers often list fake addresses.

2. "What is your license number?"

In Maryland, locksmiths must be licensed. Write down the number and verify it online at Maryland's Department of Labor website.

3. "What will this service cost?"

Get a price range. Legitimate locksmiths can estimate costs based on:

For example, we typically quote: "Residential lockout during business hours is $120-150. After hours adds $30-50 depending on time and location."

4. "Will there be any additional charges?"

Ask specifically about:

5. "How long until you arrive?"

Legitimate locksmiths can provide reasonable estimates. In Maryland, we typically arrive within 20-40 minutes depending on location.

6. "Do you accept credit cards?"

Professional businesses accept multiple payment methods. Cash-only is a major red flag.

7. "Can you email me a confirmation with your license number and estimated price?"

Scammers won't do this. Legitimate businesses will.

What to Have Ready When You Call

Help your locksmith help you faster by having this information ready:

Location Details:

Lock Information:

Situation Details:

Personal Information:

The more information you provide, the more accurate the quote and faster the service.

Reasonable Price Ranges for Emergency Services

Here's what legitimate locksmith services should cost in Maryland (as of 2026):

Residential Lockout:

Commercial Lockout:

Automotive Lockout:

Additional Services:

If someone quotes significantly below these ranges, be suspicious. If they arrive and quote significantly above, get a second opinion.

When NOT to Call an Emergency Locksmith

Some situations don't require emergency rates:

You Can Wait:

Check These First:

Avoiding emergency fees when you have alternatives can save $50-150.

What Happens During a Legitimate Service Call

Here's what to expect when you call a professional locksmith like ASAP Mobile Locksmith MD:

1. Initial Contact (Phone Call):

2. Arrival:

3. Service:

4. Completion:

5. Follow-Up:

Special Situation: Automotive Lockouts

Cars present unique challenges and opportunities for scams:

What You Should Know:

Automotive-Specific Red Flags:

Questions to Ask:

Commercial Property Considerations

Business lockouts have additional complications:

Documentation Requirements:

Security Concerns:

After-Hours Commercial Service:

Prevention: Steps to Avoid Future Emergencies

The best emergency is the one that doesn't happen:

Spare Keys:

Smart Lock Backup:

Service Relationship:

Regular Maintenance:

What to Do If You've Been Scammed

If you've already been victimized:

Immediate Actions:

1. Don't pay if they haven't completed work

2. Call police if they're threatening

3. Document everything - photos, recordings, texts

4. Dispute credit card charges if you paid by card

5. Change locks immediately if they had access

Reporting:

Recovery:

Why Choose ASAP Mobile Locksmith MD

We've built our reputation on transparency and fair pricing:

Our Commitments:

We Serve All of Maryland:

Available 24/7/365:

We're here when you need us, with honest pricing and professional service you can trust.

Save This Number Now

Before you have an emergency, save our contact information:

ASAP Mobile Locksmith MD

(410) 590-9844

Available 24/7 for all locksmith emergencies across Maryland.

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Don't let an emergency turn into a scam. Know what to ask, what to expect, and who to call. Your safety and security are too important to leave to chance.

Call (410) 590-9844 - Your trusted Maryland locksmith since 2018.