Q: I just bought a foreclosure and the bank already changed the locks. Do I still need to have the property rekeyed?
Absolutely. Most banks will have the locks on all their foreclosure properties keyed alike. This makes it convenient for the properties to be serviced, shown by realtor, etc. Also take into consideration that usually the locks are not being rekeyed, but replaced with inexpensive locks. The repossession companies don’t want to mess around with rekeying the locks, and install cheap, low quality locks that they buy in bulk. Before moving your possessions and your family in, please take the precaution of securing your new home.
Q: I need to loan a key out, but how do I know if copies were made before the key is returned to me?
With standard residential locks, there isn’t any protection against unauthorized key duplication. Only give keys to people you explicitly trust. Better yet, have an electronic code lock installed and “loan” out a code instead. Once the pet sitter or neighbor no longer needs access, change the code. Another option is to have a lock with Patented Key Protection installed. Patented Keys are protected by US Patent Law, and the blanks are only available through the registered locksmith.
Q: My doors have a glass window in them. What's the point of locking the door? If thieves really want to get in, they'll just break the window!
Surprisingly, the majority of break-ins are through an unlocked door! Seeing as thieves are generally lazy to begin with, why would they take the time and effort to smash a window when there are homes left wide open? Good security is really about making your home less of a target. It doesn’t take much, start with a deadbolt lock on all exterior doors. Then, make sure all doors and windows are locked whenever you leave.
Q: What is Lock Bumping?
This is a technique used to open pin tumbler locks. It will not work on modern automotive locks, disc tumbler locks, or locks with advanced security features. Lock bumping has been known to the locksmith community for decades, but in recent years videos and how-to guides have popped up around the internet. Contrary to what the News Media would like you to believe, it is not as easy as using a regular key to open the lock. Additionally, one of the leading manufacturers of pin tumbler locks and components has released an inexpensive kit that prevents a lock from being bumped open. We have this kit in stock, and can convert your locks to prevent lock bumping.
Q: Why are there so many Locksmiths advertised in the Yellow Page Directory?
Michigan is one of the states that does not regulate it’s Locksmiths. Sadly, there are many reports in the news of fraud and phony locksmiths overcharging for their services. When calling any locksmith, ask where they are physically located. Reputable locksmiths have been in your community for years, drive marked service trucks and are uniformed. Ask for the legal name of the business. Unscrupulous companies often answer the phone “Locksmith Service.” Get a quote and ask for referrals. Most of the phony locksmiths prey on customers who are locked out late at night and desperate for any one to come out. For further reading see these Google News results and the Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA).
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