Quick answer:
- Ask for an upfront price range, and a real local address.
- Confirm they’re insured (NM has no license, so insurance is the protection).
- A good locksmith answers all of this without dodging.
The 7 Questions
Keep these handy. They work whether it’s a planned job or a stressful 2 a.m. lockout:
- “What’s the price range for this job?” You want a real range now, confirmed before work starts.
- “Where are you located?” A genuine Albuquerque address, not a vague “we’re in the area.”
- “Are you insured?” NM doesn’t license locksmiths, so insurance is the real protection.
- “Will the person who quotes me do the work?” Owner-operated beats anonymous subcontractors.
- “Do you verify ownership?” “Yes” is the right answer, and it protects you.
- “Can you avoid drilling my lock?” Non-destructive entry should be the default.
- “What’s your arrival estimate?” A specific, honest ETA, not “15 minutes” from three towns away.
Answers That Should Worry You
Walk away if you hear: refusal to give any price, a quote that sounds too cheap to be real (the scam setup), no local address, a claim of a New Mexico “license number” (there isn’t one, see why), or pressure to decide instantly.
Why These Questions Work
Scammers rely on you being stressed and not asking. The moment you request specifics, whether price, address, insurance or process, the bad actors get vague and the legitimate locksmiths answer easily. It’s the fastest filter there is, and it pairs with our full how to choose a locksmith guide.
We’ll Pass the Test
Call Just In Time Locksmith and you’ll get straight answers to every one of these: an upfront price range, a real Albuquerque address, insured & bonded service, and the owner standing behind the work. (505) 818-0720, 24/7.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the single most important question?
Ask for the price range up front and confirm it before work begins. Pair that with verifying a real local address, and you’ve filtered out most bad actors.
Should I ask for a license number?
In New Mexico there’s no locksmith license, so asking for a “license number” can be misleading. If they claim one, be cautious. Ask about insurance instead.
Is it rude to ask all this during an emergency?
Not at all. A professional expects it and answers quickly. Taking two minutes to ask can save you from a big overcharge.
Need a locksmith in Albuquerque? Call Just In Time Locksmith at (505) 818-0720 for fast, local, upfront-priced service, or request service online. 24/7 across the metro.