WHAT TO KNOW WHEN CALLING A LOCKSMITH

Calling a locksmith is most likely done when you are at your most vulnerable – when locked out of your home or vehicle. When in this situation, you may use a search engine on your smart phone to locate the nearest locksmith. In order to protect yourself and your wallet, you should remember the following:

  • Not all locksmiths listed online are actually in your area.
  • Not all locksmiths listed online are licensed through the State of Alabama.
  • Not all locksmiths listed online will charge the quoted amount when they are on site.

Ask when speaking to them via telephone if they are currently licensed with the Alabama Electronic Security Board of Licensure. When they are on site at your home or business, ask to see their identification badge issued through the Electronic Security Board. You should not allow any security or locksmith personnel into your home or business unless they are currently licensed.

When locked out of your vehicle, it is recommended that you ask the following:

  • Where in the state are they located?
  • Give the exact make and model of your vehicle and ask for as firm a quote as possible for unlock services.
  • Is there a trip charge for the service?
  • When a locksmith is on site, ask for the amount to be charged BEFORE service is rendered.
  • If the above charge is higher than the initially quoted amount, ask what, if any, charge will be assessed if services are refused.

The Alabama Electronic Security Board of Licensure recommends that you plan ahead and find a local licensed locksmith in your area to call in the event of a lockout. Save their information in your phone for quick access. All licensed locksmiths can be found on our website under the tab for Licensees.

 

BURGLAR ALARM SYSTEMS CONSIDERATIONS BEFORE PURCHASING

Once installed an electronic security alarm system becomes an integral part of your home or business and of your daily living pattern. Your electronic security representative may end up knowing more about your home or business than any other service person that will ever be on your property. Take enough time to find out as much as you can about the electronic security company you are considering purchasing from. Select a company only after thoughtful consideration.

Determine what you need or want in an electronic security system:

  • You probably want protection on all perimeter doors.
  • Do you want detectors on all ground level windows?
  • You should have an inside siren.
  • Do you want outside sirens?
  • Do you want motion detectors inside? Where? How many? Do you or will you have inside pets?
  • Is monitoring needed with your electronic security system?
  • If yes, does the monitoring company confirm alarm signals prior to dispatching?
  • Will the monitoring company accept and advise of alarm cancellations?

Be cautious of anyone trying to rush you into making a major purchasing decision on an electronic security system.
Be aware of sales statements or requests such as:

  • You need to make your decision today.
  • This offer is good today or this is a one-time offer.
  • Any request for names of referrals or friends before you have purchased and used the system.
  • An offer of a discount if you do certain things.
  • A statement that the system is FREE. NOTHING YOU PURCHASE IS FREE

Is the electronic security company licensed in the city and/or county in which you live? Is the company licensed by the Alabama Electronic Security Board of Licensure (AESBL)? Do all company representatives have an official AESBL I.D. Badge? Ask the electronic security company for alarm users in your area who have had systems for 5 years; one year; 30 to 60 days in order to inquire about their alarm system experiences and company service. Check with the Better Business Bureau for any information they may have on the company.

Obtain quotes or bids from two or more electronic security companies.

Know what you are purchasing, where it is to be placed, what it does, how it works, etc.

 

BEFORE YOU SIGN ANY CONTRACT
  • Read and re-read the contract to make certain you understand all requirements and services before you sign.
  • Does the contract specify the equipment as yours or when it is yours?
  • How long does the contract obligate you and for how much?
  • Who are the appropriate contacts for resolving servicing or monitoring problems? How are they to be contacted?
  • Does the contract have a cancellation clause? What are the conditions for cancellation? What is the process?
  • If a lawsuit should happen, is it filed in Alabama or is it required to be in another state where the company’s headquarters or monitoring are located?

IT IS RECOMMENDED THAT NO INDIVIDUAL SIGN A SECOND BURGLAR ALARM SYSTEM CONTRACT UNTIL THERE IS WRITTEN AGREEMENT BY ALL PARTIES THAT THE FIRST CONTRACT IS TERMINATED.