Reputable locksmith in Berlin

Reputable locksmith in Berlin? How can I recognise one?

In a big city like Berlin there are plenty of reputable locksmiths, but also a few black sheep who exploit the customer's emergency to issue grossly inflated bills. Time and again you read in Berlin's daily newspapers about people who were charged almost 1000 euros for a simple door opening. This is utterly disreputable! But how do I find a reputable locksmith in Berlin? Here are a few tips on what to look out for.

1. Look for local locksmiths

First of all, make sure the locksmith is located near you. Local businesses are often skilled trade businesses that always care about their good reputation. You can therefore expect to be treated fairly, as many of these businesses benefit from positive word of mouth and do not want a bad name in their Berlin neighbourhood. It is also obvious that a local locksmith cannot charge you a high call-out fee, as they are usually only a few minutes away. Be especially careful if the locksmith is based abroad, as these are mostly just agencies that push up costs unnecessarily.

2. Recognise reputable locksmiths by their name

Sometimes you can also recognise a disreputable locksmith by its name. If you have ever looked for a locksmith in a phone book, for example, you will have noticed that the first entries often contain names that use tricks to get listed at the top. These include names beginning with AAA or 123. If you are looking for a reputable locksmith in Berlin, we recommend not simply picking the first of these locksmiths you come across. Instead, make sure the locksmith always states its full name, its address and ideally also its membership of a trade association. With the examples mentioned, you will otherwise often just end up at a call centre, and the locksmiths it passes you on to charge higher prices simply because of the agency fee.

3. A reputable locksmith offers fixed prices

Before you hire a locksmith, you should clarify all prices by phone in advance. There may always be special cases on site that increase the price, but a reputable Berlin locksmith will usually offer you fixed prices. In almost all cases these prices can then also be kept. If the locksmith avoids estimating the price on the phone or tries to avoid firm commitments, you should definitely not hire them.

4. When the locksmith has arrived

As soon as the locksmith's technician has arrived, ask them to state all costs once again. At the latest when they see your door, they should be able to give a forecast that allows an exact figure. If possible, it is best to have a witness present. There is surely a neighbour on site who can later confirm the prices quoted if necessary, should the locksmith suddenly want to charge a higher price because of supposed extra work. Never sign contracts presented to you before the service, or at least read them carefully. Also ask for an invoice at the end so that you have proof from the locksmith. Inflated bills can also be legally challenged afterwards.

If you bear all these points in mind, you have a good chance of getting your door opened at a fair price. If you are looking for a reputable locksmith in Berlin, you are of course welcome to contact Fair Schlüsseldienst, as we meet all the points listed above. You can find a list of our door opening prices here: Door opening price list

Why not note down our emergency number right away so you are prepared if the worst happens: 030 / 69 200 310

Lost your key and it is not an emergency? Feel free to use our form. We will call you back promptly and arrange a door opening with you at the cheapest time of day.