If you ever find yourself locked out of your home late at night, need to rekey your office because of a turnover, or just get locks changed, it is nice to have a good locksmith in Bakersfield. With everyone claiming that they are “the best,” however, how do you actually choose the best?
This book walks you through the most significant factors to take into account, warning signals, and expert tips on how to hire a professional locksmith you can rely on.
1. Why It Pays to Get the Right Locksmith
A locksmith is not just a door-opener—she is someone you are placing the security of your home, vehicle, or office into their hands. Getting it wrong will result in shoddy work, overpricing, or worse—hazardous lockouts.
As the saying goes:
“Where safety is concerned, trust is the best lock you can get.”
Wise choice offers good work, transparent costs, and increased security over the phone or through an online website.
2. Start with Credentials and Licensing
California locksmiths are required to be BSIS licensed. The license verifies the locksmith successfully passed a background test and meets the state requirements.
Checklist:
Request the license number and verify on the BSIS website.
Verify the company is insured to offer protection against loss through an accident.
Obtain professional association membership such as Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA).
3. Confirm Experience and Specialty
Locksmiths specialize—some in car lockouts, some in deadbolt on homes, and others in commercial access control systems.
Things to ask:
How long have you been servicing Bakersfield?
Do you perform residential, commercial, or auto locksmith services?
Have you ever serviced a lock or security system such as the one that I have?
4. Response Time and Availability
Emergencies tend to happen infrequently at convenient times. The speed of response by a locksmith could be the determining factor. Look for those who have 24/7 emergency service and who can respond quickly in Bakersfield and nearby neighborhoods.
Tip: Request an estimated response time and see if they are on time—punctuality begins with timeliness.
5. Read Reviews and Ask for References
Reviews are one of the fastest ways to gauge a locksmith’s reliability. Look at the following sources:
Google Reviews
Yelp
BBB (Better Business Bureau)
Local Facebook groups or Nextdoor
Where possible, also request a few recent customer references. A good locksmith will happily provide them.
6. Get Clear, Upfront Pricing
Scams by locksmiths typically involve calling the customer via phone with a low price, but charging the work higher upon completion. To avoid this:
Insist on a written quote prior to working.
Make sure that if the quote is charged by services, labor, and materials fees.
Do not hire locksmiths that do not provide any estimate unless they come to you.
7. Compare Services Side by Side
Below is a comparison chart showing what to observe when looking for Bakersfield locksmiths:
Factor
Why It Matters
What to Look For
Red Flags
License & Insurance
Guarantees legality & protection
CA BSIS license, liability insurance
Won’t provide proof
Experience
Better skill & speed of service
5+ years of business background
No local reputation
Specialization
Fitting for your precise need
Automotive, residential, commercial background
“We do everything” but no case studies
Availability
Crisis-situations beneficial
24/7 service, fast response
No weekends/nights service
Reputation
Embodies reliability & trustworthiness
4+ stars on multiple review platforms
Numerous unsettled complaints
Pricing Transparency
Prevents scams & surprise bills
Written initial estimates
Will not quote in advance
8. Be aware of Widespread Locksmith Scams
A few locksmiths scam unsuspecting customers in crisis situations. Be aware of:
Unmarked trucks – Professional locksmiths arrive at your doorstep in company-marked trucks.
No business address – Always ask whether they are Bakersfield-based.
Demands cash payment only – Registered companies accept cards and issue receipts.
Drilling as the first option – Professionals do non-destructive methods first.
9. Ask about Advanced Security Solutions
New locksmiths do not handle normal locks only. Most of them install:
Phone-operated smart locks
Keyless entry systems
Deadbolts of high security
Master key systems
Business access control
If you need to replace your security, choose a locksmith who understands new technology.
10. Get to Know a Locksmith Beforehand
The ideal time to have a locksmith call is when you don’t need one in case of an emergency. Call one today for simple services like:
Rekeying locks when you move into a new home
Spare cutting
Inspecting the security of your house
This way, you already have the number of the individual to dial when there is an emergency—and they already become accustomed to the locks.
Conclusion
Choosing the top locksmith in Bakersfield is a question of a mixture of credentials, experience, transparency, and trust. Always make sure their license is current, check online reviews, and ensure they are offering the particular services you require—especially if you require 24/7 service.