Locksmith scams follow a pattern. A cheap price is quoted on a directory listing, then a much larger bill appears on the doorstep. The technician drills a lock you did not ask to have drilled, or says the lock has to be replaced before anything is tried.
Three things protect you. Ask for the price on the phone, for the work described, before anyone is sent. Ask for photo ID, and check that the business name on the van and the invoice matches the one you called. And agree in advance to any drilling, with the reason explained.
If the price changes on the doorstep, ask for the new work to be described in writing, and say no to anything you do not understand.
Sources and further reading
Standards and laws change. Check the current version before you act on this guide. How we write our guidance
