I am a Realtor who frequently deals with locksmiths for all sorts of purposes. The one I usually rely on was away on vacation, and the lock broke on one of our vacant listings,
making the key inoperable and preventing it from being shown.
My husband gave me the name of this locksmith, who had recently changed the locks on his business. I called on late Saturday afternoon and arranged to meet the locksmith at the property the following morning at 9:00 to rekey the two front entry doors.
No charges were discussed, although I was prepared for a possible extra charge for a Sunday call.
The next morning the locksmith arrived a little bit late, scowling and accusing me of having given him the wrong cross streets. I knew that I hadn't, but just let that slide. The
security had an improperly fitted lock which had apparently broken the bolt and the bolt had to be changed.
It was A SOMEWHAT more difficult job than the usual rekey, it took the man about 45 minutes to complete. The entire time he cussed and swore under his breath, using the foulest language, obviously intended to let me know his displeasure.
By this time I was expecting a bill somewhere in the neighborhood of $100.00. (The usual rekey is 35-50 dollars).
I would have gladly paid, knowing it was Sunday and a little
extra work had been involved. Imagine my surprise when he
presented me with a bill for $203.16, including an $80 charge
for coming out on Sunday, which he had never mentioned at all when I called.
The key change was completed and worked fine, but it was hardly worth that, especially when it required me to deal with such a lowlife person into the bargain. I paid him, but I want to warn other people away from him if I can.
0 comments