When you call a 24-hour locksmith, you'll describe the problem, get an estimate by phone, wait for the locksmith, show proof that you live there or own the vehicle, approve the confirmed price, and then the work starts. That's the whole process. Knowing each step ahead of time makes a stressful night a lot calmer.
The phone call
Have a few details ready. Where you are, as exactly as you can: a street address, or a cross street and landmark like a grocery store lot on Fourth Plain or the Salmon Creek Park and Ride. What's locked: house, business, car, safe. The make, model, and year if it's a vehicle. And whether anyone is in danger. If a child or pet is locked in a hot car, hang up and call 911 first.
We take calls every day at 360-667-3326, and we refer the job to an independent local locksmith contractor. Answer honestly about the situation. If you already tried to force the lock, or a key is broken off inside, say so. It changes the tools and sometimes the price, and nobody likes a surprise once they're standing at your door.
The estimate
You'll get a phone estimate based on what you describe. Starting rates through our network look like this, each plus a $29.00 service call fee:
- Lockouts, rekeying, lock repair, home or business key extraction: from $19.00
- Basic lock change: from $25.00
- New lock on a door with no hole: from $85.00
- Safe opening: from $85.00 (the safe is damaged and not usable after)
- Car keys, ignition change, transponder programming, automotive key extraction: from $100.00
Those are starting points. A high-security lock or an unusual vehicle can cost more. Full details are on the price list.
Arrival time
Honest answer: it depends. It depends on which locksmiths are working, where they are, the time of night, and traffic. A wreck on I-205 near the Glenn Jackson Bridge changes everything. We'll pass along what the locksmith tells us, but we won't promise a time we can't control. Stay somewhere safe and well lit while you wait.
Proof of residence or ownership
Expect the locksmith to ask for ID. For a home, that might be a driver's license with the address, a utility bill, or a lease. For a car, the registration or title, often found once the door is open. This isn't suspicion. It's the locksmith making sure they're not helping someone break into your neighbor's place. Be glad they ask.
The work
Before starting, the locksmith confirms the cost on site. Agree to it first. Then they'll choose the right approach, usually trying non-destructive methods before anything else. Some locks can't be opened that way, and drilling becomes necessary. A good locksmith explains that before doing it.
Ask questions. Watch if you like.
If the job turns out bigger than described, the locksmith should stop and tell you before going further. Maybe the lock is broken inside and needs replacing, not just opening. You decide whether to go ahead. Nothing extra should happen without your say-so.
Payment and warranty
The independent contractor invoices you directly. Major credit cards are accepted. Warranties come from the contractor: 24 hours on lockouts; 30 days on rekeys, lock repair, ignition changes, and new car keys; 3 months on new locks. Keep the receipt. Our terms and conditions explain how the referral works, and our emergency locksmith page covers urgent calls in more detail.