Most people have never called a locksmith in the middle of the night, so it helps to know what's coming. Here's how a round-the-clock locksmith call usually goes.
The phone call
You'll be asked a few questions so the right technician and tools are sent:
- Where are you? An exact address or cross street, plus any gate code.
- What's locked: a house, apartment, car or business?
- What kind of lock, or the car's make, model and year?
- Is anyone in danger? If a child or pet is locked in a hot car, call 911 first.
You should then get a quote and an estimated arrival time. Ask whether the quote includes any after-hours charge.
When the technician arrives
- Identification. The locksmith shows their ID and asks for yours, to check you're entitled to access.
- Assessment. They look at the lock and confirm the price before starting.
- Opening. They use the least damaging method available. Most residential and vehicle lockouts don't require drilling.
- Follow-up work. If a lock is damaged or a key is lost, they can repair, rekey or replace it on the spot.
- Payment. You pay once the job is done.
How long will it take?
That depends on how far the nearest technician is and what else is happening that night. A good locksmith will give you a realistic estimate and update you if it changes, rather than promising a time they can't keep.
Lockouts at night: staying safe
Wait in a well-lit place, with a friend on the phone if you're alone. Don't try to climb in through a window. Keep your phone charged and save a locksmith's number before you need it.
Calling us
Valley Village Locksmith Store answers its phone Monday through Sunday, all day. Call 818-942-3093 from anywhere in Valley Village or North Hollywood, or read about our emergency service.
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