Questions people ask before calling a locksmith

We don’t meet at a storefront or counter. We come to the property where the lock or key issue is; every job happens onsite. That lets us see the actual door, lock, or car before we start work, and we can make or cut keys and fit hardware at the location when the situation allows.

Yes. Havertown is where we are based, and we work across Delaware, Chester and Montgomery counties and Philadelphia, always at the address where the lock is. If you are ever outside that area, we will say so when you call.

Tell us the type of lock or key, whether it’s a house, apartment, business, or vehicle, and what’s happening: key broken, lock won’t turn, locked out, or replacing locks. Give make and model if you know it, and describe visible damage. That helps us bring the right tools and parts when we come to your location.

We can make new car keys in many situations, including vehicles with no keys present. We’ll need the vehicle’s year, make, and model and proof of ownership when we get there. For cars with electronic immobilizers we may need to access the vehicle’s programming interface or order a specific transponder; we’ll explain options once we see the vehicle.

Not necessarily. Many locks and doors can be opened non-destructively with the right tools and techniques. Sometimes worn or high-security hardware requires removing the lock cylinder or drilling, and we’ll use the least invasive method practical. If removal or destructive entry seems likely, we’ll explain why and what the outcome will be first.

Rekeying changes the internal pins so old keys won’t work and is a good option when the hardware is in good condition but keys have been lost or personnel changed. Replacing the lock is better if the cylinder or mechanism is damaged, outdated, or fails to meet security needs. We’ll inspect the lock on site and recommend the appropriate approach.

Yes, we work on commercial properties as well as residences and vehicles. That includes mortise locks, exit devices, master-key systems, file cabinets, and storefront hardware. Commercial work often needs specific hardware and coordination with building management; when you call, tell us the type of building and the hardware involved so we can prepare.

If a specific part is required that we don’t carry, we’ll explain what component is needed and the reason. We can often source the part and return to complete the job, or fit a temporary solution to secure the opening until a proper part arrives. We’ll outline the choices and next steps before proceeding.

We need to see the actual lock, door, or vehicle, and for vehicles proof of ownership. Photos can help, but an on-site inspection is usually necessary to determine if a cylinder will rekey, a lock must be removed, or a part is broken. Once we inspect the hardware at the location, we can describe the required work and options.