Your Most Common Questions Answered
When it comes to locksmith services, we understand that customers often have many questions before making that important call. At Atlantic Locksmith, we’ve been serving Halifax, Dartmouth, and surrounding communities for over 35 years, and we’ve heard just about every question imaginable. To help you make informed decisions about your security needs, we’ve compiled answers to the most frequently asked questions we receive.
Emergency Locksmith Services
How quickly can you respond to emergency calls?
Our emergency response times typically range from 15-30 minutes within Halifax and Dartmouth, depending on traffic and your exact location. We understand that being locked out of your home, business, or vehicle is stressful, which is why we prioritize rapid response times for all emergency calls. Our 24/7 service means we’re available even during holidays and severe weather conditions.
Do you charge extra for after-hours service?
Yes, there is typically an additional fee for service calls outside of regular business hours (evenings, weekends, and holidays). However, we believe in transparent pricing and will always inform you of any additional charges before dispatching a technician. Our emergency rates are competitive and fair, considering the convenience of round-the-clock availability.
What should I do while waiting for the locksmith to arrive?
Stay in a safe location and avoid attempting to force entry, which could damage your locks or door frames and result in higher repair costs. If you’re locked out of your vehicle, stay near your car in a well-lit area. For home lockouts, consider waiting with a neighbor or in your vehicle. Keep your phone charged and accessible so we can contact you upon arrival.
Residential Locksmith Services
Should I rekey or replace my locks when I move into a new home?
We strongly recommend rekeying or replacing locks when moving into any new property. Previous owners, tenants, contractors, or service providers may still have copies of keys. Rekeying is typically more cost-effective if your existing locks are in good condition and meet your security needs. However, if you want to upgrade your security or your current locks are worn or outdated, replacement might be the better option.
How long does it take to rekey locks?
Most standard residential rekeying jobs take between 15-30 minutes per lock. A typical home with 2-3 exterior doors can usually be completed within an hour. The process involves changing the internal pins and springs so that old keys will no longer work, while providing you with new keys that operate the freshly rekeyed locks.
What’s the difference between single-cylinder and double-cylinder deadbolts?
Single-cylinder deadbolts can be unlocked from the inside with a thumb turn and require a key from the outside. Double-cylinder deadbolts require a key for both inside and outside operation. While double-cylinder locks provide enhanced security (especially for doors with glass panels), they can pose safety risks during emergencies since you need a key to exit. Local building codes may restrict their use in certain situations.
Can you install smart locks on any door?
Most exterior doors can accommodate smart locks, but installation requirements vary by door type, thickness, and existing hardware. We’ll assess your door during our visit to determine compatibility and recommend the best smart lock options for your specific situation. Some older or uniquely designed doors may require additional modifications for proper installation.
Commercial Locksmith Services
What is a master key system and do I need one?
A master key system allows different levels of access throughout your business using a hierarchy of keys. For example, individual employees might have keys that only open their specific areas, while supervisors have keys that open multiple areas, and you as the owner have a master key that opens everything. This system is ideal for businesses with multiple employees, departments, or areas requiring different security levels.
How often should commercial locks be serviced or replaced?
High-traffic commercial locks should be inspected annually and serviced as needed. Locks showing signs of wear, difficulty turning, or frequent jamming should be addressed immediately. Generally, quality commercial locks last 7-10 years with proper maintenance, though this varies based on usage frequency and environmental conditions. Regular maintenance can extend lock life and prevent inconvenient failures.
Can you install keyless entry systems for businesses?
Absolutely. We install various keyless entry solutions including keypad locks, card readers, biometric systems, and smartphone-controlled access systems. These systems offer enhanced security, detailed access logs, and the ability to quickly grant or revoke access without physically collecting keys. We’ll help you choose the system that best fits your business needs and budget.
Automotive Locksmith Services
My car key is broken in the ignition. Can you help?
Yes, we specialize in broken key extraction from ignitions, door locks, and trunk locks. Using professional extraction tools, we can typically remove broken key fragments without damaging the lock mechanism. Depending on the break, we may be able to create a new key from the extracted pieces, or we might need to cut a new key using your vehicle’s key code.
How much does it cost to program a new car key?
Programming costs vary significantly based on your vehicle’s make, model, and year. Basic transponder keys typically cost less than advanced proximity keys or smart keys with push-button start functionality. Luxury vehicles and newer models often require more expensive programming procedures. We provide upfront pricing before beginning any work, so you’ll know exactly what to expect.
Can you make a key for my car if I’ve lost all my keys?
Yes, though this is typically more complex and expensive than duplicating an existing key. We can create new keys using your vehicle’s VIN number, door lock codes, or ignition codes. For vehicles with advanced security systems, this process may require specialized programming equipment and could take longer than standard key duplication.
General Questions
How do I know if my locks need to be replaced?
Consider lock replacement if you notice difficulty inserting or turning keys, visible rust or corrosion, loose or wobbly handles, keys that stick or require excessive force, or if your locks are over 10 years old. Additionally, if you’ve experienced multiple break-in attempts or want to upgrade your security level, replacement might be worthwhile.
Are your locksmiths licensed and insured?
Yes, all our technicians are fully licensed, bonded, and insured. We maintain current licensing with Nova Scotia and carry comprehensive liability insurance to protect both our customers and our business. Our team participates in ongoing training to stay current with the latest lock technologies and security trends.
Do you provide free estimates?
We provide free estimates for most non-emergency services. For emergency calls, there’s typically a service call fee that’s applied toward the total cost of completed work. We believe in transparent pricing and will always discuss costs before beginning any work, so you can make informed decisions about your security needs.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept cash, all major credit cards, and electronic transfers. For larger commercial projects, we can arrange payment terms to accommodate your business needs. All payments are processed securely, and we provide detailed invoices for your records.
How can I improve my home security beyond just locks?
While quality locks are fundamental, comprehensive home security often includes proper lighting (motion-activated lights deter intruders), security cameras, alarm systems, reinforced door frames, and window security measures. We can assess your property and recommend a security strategy that fits your needs and budget. Sometimes simple upgrades like longer screws in strike plates can significantly improve security.
Contact Atlantic Locksmith
Still have questions? We’re here to help. Our experienced team is ready to discuss your specific security needs and provide personalized recommendations.
Phone: 902-434-5625
Service Areas: Halifax, Dartmouth, Bedford, Lower Sackville, Middle Sackville, Cole Harbour, Waverley, Porters Lake, Fall River, Hammonds Plains, St. Margarets Bay, Tantallon, Stewiacke
Emergency Services: Available 24/7
Don’t let security concerns keep you up at night. Contact Atlantic Locksmith today for professional, reliable locksmith services backed by over 35 years of experience serving the Halifax area.
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