Most locksmiths are honest tradespeople. But the lockout industry attracts a small number of operators who take advantage of people at their most stressed. Knowing the common locksmith scams makes you almost impossible to fool. Here are the seven we hear about most from Brampton customers who called someone else first.
1. The “$19 service call”
An ad or phone agent quotes a tiny price. What they do not say is that it only covers showing up. Labour, “emergency” fees and parts are added at the door, often multiplying the bill. Protect yourself: ask for the total price to open your specific lock, not the call-out fee.
2. Fake local listings
Call centres create listings with local-sounding names and addresses that do not exist, then dispatch whoever is available from anywhere in the GTA. Protect yourself: ask for the business name and look it up while you wait.
3. Unnecessary drilling
A standard residential lock can usually be picked or bypassed. Some operators drill immediately so they can sell you a new lock. Protect yourself: ask on the phone whether they will try non-destructive entry first, and do not agree to drilling without an explanation and a price.
4. The price that changes at the door
The technician arrives and announces the job is “more complicated”, or the lock is “high security”, and the quote doubles. Protect yourself: ask why, and approve any change before work continues. You are allowed to say no.
5. Cash only, no receipt
A demand for cash with no business name on a receipt leaves you no recourse. Protect yourself: ask what payment methods are accepted before booking, and insist on an itemized receipt.
6. Unmarked vehicles and no identification
Not every legitimate locksmith drives a branded van, but someone who cannot confirm the business name or your job details is a red flag. Protect yourself: ask the technician to confirm the company name and the price you were quoted.
7. No questions about ownership
A locksmith who opens your home or car without asking for proof you live there or own it would do the same for a stranger. Protect yourself: choose one that verifies ID; it is a sign of a legitimate business.
Want a locksmith who answers every question?
Call 647-330-7919. Price, business name and arrival time before we dispatch.
A simple checklist before you hire
- Business name?
- Total price for my job?
- Arrival time?
- Non-destructive entry first?
- Payment methods and receipt?
Our full hiring guide, Locksmith in Brampton, goes deeper, and Locksmith Prices Brampton explains what really affects a fair price.
If you think you were scammed
Keep the receipt and any messages, contact your card issuer if you paid by card, and consider a complaint through Ontario’s consumer protection office. If you believe a crime was committed, contact Peel Regional Police. Links are on our resources page.
Frequently asked questions
How can I tell if a locksmith is legitimate?
They give a business name, a real price for your job, an arrival time, try non-destructive entry first, verify ownership and provide a receipt.
Is a very low locksmith quote a scam?
Often. Very low “service call” prices usually exclude the actual work.
Should a locksmith drill my lock?
Only as a last resort for high-security or damaged locks, explained and approved first.
Are locksmiths licensed in Ontario?
Ontario has no provincial locksmith licence, so checking the business and asking the right questions matters.