What are Backpacker Locksmiths and How Can You Protect Yourself?

How do you know that you’re getting a reliable, trustworthy, and safe locksmith?

After all, these are the companies that you trust to give you peace of mind when you’re moving into a new home, changing your doors and windows, or setting up a new security strategy. The last thing you want is to give your hard-earned cash to someone who’s not going to give you a reliable system.

Unfortunately, reports suggest that innocent Aussies could be facing the threat of malicious “backpacker” locksmiths travelling across the country. These unqualified people pretend to have the skills you need to secure your home but end up costing you hundreds in repairs and new locks.

What are Backpacker Locksmiths?

Backpacker locksmiths are unqualified individuals who claim to offer state-of-the-art lock and security services – using on their websites. Most of these groups pose as legitimate businesses, with an attractive site, and even a professional email address.

One of the biggest red flags that separates a backpacker locksmith from the pros is the presence of a too-good-to-be-true call-out fee. If your locksmith promises you that they’ll deal with your lock issue for less than $50, think twice about calling them.

Most backpacker locksmiths prey on people who desperately need to get back into their homes, but don’t have a lot of extra cash available. Once they’re finished messing around with your locks, they charge a huge fee and leave you with doors and windows that aren’t properly secured.

How Can You Protect Yourself?

Currently, security bodies in Australia are calling on national groups to support higher regulation and stricter licensing rules in the country. This will make it easier for the government to police unqualified locksmiths. However, for the time being, there’s no uniform approach to stopping these groups from setting up shop and seeking out homeowners.

Throughout certain parts of the country, it’s still possible for people to operate as a locksmith without proving that they’re licensed, registered, or equipped with any qualifications. With that in mind, it’s up to you to protect yourself. Check out Matt from Guv’nor Locksmiths top tips?

• Don’t go for unrealistic prices: Remember that if a deal seems like it’s too good to be true – it usually is. If a service seems legitimate but offers low prices, make sure that you check that their services are regulated and guaranteed.
• Look for a guarantee: At Guv’nor Locksmiths, we provide a genuine 24-hour emergency locksmith service that’s certified throughout the Perth area and beyond. Our products and workmanship are fully guaranteed, which means that you can trust us to deliver exceptional work.
• Pick someone with the right licenses: If you visit our contact page, you’ll notice that we’re not only Trade Qualified and fully insured, we are also WA Police licensed. Guv’nor Locksmiths also has a range of other licenses available, including a security installer license, security agents license, and motor vehicle locksmiths repairs license.

If, for any reason, you’re not sure about the integrity, security, or value of the locksmith service you’re getting, make sure that you contact the company. Speaking to them may either put your mind at ease or call Guv’nor Locksmiths.