Questions, answered.
What people most often ask about lockouts, rekeys, safes, pricing, and timing. If yours isn't here, call dispatch.
Still got a question?
Pick up the phone. The dispatcher will answer the kind of question that doesn't fit a list.
Call (503) 766-5541How long does it take a locksmith to respond to my call?
On average, we reach you within 15 to 30 minutes. The shop sits directly south of Portland International Airport, so we're reasonably central. Outer suburbs and the further reaches of the metro can add a few minutes.
Why aren't locksmith prices listed online?
Each job has different variables: lock type, hardware brand, situation, time of day. Listing static prices online would mislead you. Instead, we give clear quotes over the phone before dispatching, and we stick to them.
How accurate are your phone quotes?
Very close, not perfect. We can usually estimate within a tight range based on what you describe. There are sometimes unknowns we can't fully diagnose without seeing the lock, and when that happens, we'll tell you before doing any work.
Will you damage the lock to get my house open?
Almost never. We pick or rake the lock open in the large majority of lockouts. If the hardware is so degraded that drilling is the only option, we'll explain why first and leave the surrounding fixtures undamaged.
What does rekey mean?
Rekey means modifying the pins inside your existing lock cylinder so the old keys no longer work. Then we cut new keys that do. It's much cheaper than replacing the entire lock and is the standard move-in or post-divorce security upgrade.
What is a bump-proof lock?
Bump-proof locks resist a technique where a specially cut key is bumped against the pins to open the lock without picking. Standard pin-tumbler locks are vulnerable to it. Bump-proof locks add features like security pins or sidebars to defeat it.
Do you service residential homes and businesses?
Both, plus safes. We've been serving Portland-area homes and businesses since 1993. High-security locks, push-bar installation, master-key systems. If it locks, we work on it.
Can you unlock a safe?
Yes. We've been doing it the entire time we've been in business. Personal, commercial, fire-rated, almost any model. For safes still under manufacturer warranty, it's sometimes worth calling them first. We'll tell you when that's the better move.
Do I need a locksmith or a handyman?
If the lock itself is the problem (sticking, broken, lost keys, security upgrade, lockout), that's a locksmith. If the door, frame, or hinges are the problem, that's usually a handyman or carpenter. We'll happily tell you which one you need.
Don't panic. Just call.
A real dispatcher answers, sets expectations on time and cost, and gets a technician en route. Open 24 hours, 7 days a week.