Frequently Asked Questions
Straight answers from a licensed California locksmith — and links to the full guides when you want more detail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are you a licensed locksmith?
Yes. We hold California Locksmith Company License #LOC8542, issued by the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services. You can verify our license (#LOC8542) on the state database.
What should I do when I'm locked out?
- Take a breath — most lockouts are a quick fix and don't require drilling.
- Check every other door and any unlocked windows first.
- If you rent, call your landlord or property manager — they may have a key.
- Call a licensed locksmith and ask for the price and the license number up front.
- Have your ID ready — a reputable locksmith will confirm you're authorized to enter.
Will you drill or destroy my lock to get me in?
Almost never. We use non-destructive entry for the large majority of lockouts, which opens the door without damaging your lock. Drilling is a last resort we only recommend when there's no other option — and we explain why first.
Do you charge a flat, upfront price?
Yes. We quote a fair price before any work begins, and that's the price you pay. We don't inflate the bill once we arrive.
How does locksmith pricing work?
A fair price usually depends on the type of job (lockout, rekey, install), the hardware involved, and the time of day. A trustworthy locksmith gives you that price before starting and puts it on a receipt.
If a quote sounds too good to be true, it usually is — the real bill arrives after your lock is already drilled. We'd rather give you an upfront quote and earn a repeat customer.
Should I rekey or replace my locks?
Rekeying changes the pins inside your existing lock so old keys stop working — it's faster and cheaper, and your hardware stays the same. Replacing means installing brand-new hardware.
Rekey when keys are floating around (after a move, a breakup, or a lost key) but the locks work fine. Replace when hardware is worn or damaged, or when you're upgrading to higher-security or smart locks.
What should I do to secure a home I just moved into?
- Rekey or replace every exterior lock — you don't know who has a key.
- Don't forget side gates, garages, sheds, and mailboxes.
- Test that every deadbolt fully extends into the door frame.
- Consider a keypad or smart lock so you never hide a key under the mat.
- Change any garage door or smart-home codes left by the previous owner.
How can I make my home harder to break into?
- Install solid deadbolts with at least 1-inch throw and 3-inch screws in the strike plate.
- Reinforce the door frame and strike plate — most kicked-in doors fail at the frame, not the lock.
- Add good lighting and trim back bushes near doors and windows.
- Never leave a spare key in an obvious hiding spot.
- Lock up even for "just a minute" — most break-ins are crimes of opportunity.
How do I choose a smart lock?
- Pick a lock that fits a standard deadbolt prep so it works with your door.
- Look for a physical key backup or a battery-jump option for dead batteries.
- Check that it's graded for security (ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 or 2), not just "smart."
- Decide what matters to you: keypad, app, fingerprint, or auto-lock.
- Ask us — we'll tell you which models hold up and install it correctly.
What areas do you serve?
We're a mobile locksmith serving Thousand Oaks, Calabasas, Simi Valley, Ventura, Agoura Hills, Westlake Village, Newbury Park, Moorpark and nearby communities. Call us to confirm we cover your address.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept cash, major credit/debit cards, Venmo, and Zelle, and we always provide a receipt. Be cautious of any locksmith who demands cash only with no receipt.