To Start or Not To Start...

[TYE]

Facts: I don't have any experience in locksmithing. I have owned two finance companies and know business. I planned to start a lockout business part time once comfortable with my skills, train further into other aspects of locksmithing, then go full time.

Problem: Yellow page ad deadline is in two weeks. The next one won't come out for 1.5 years.

Question: If I get the ad now, can I be ready to do lockouts by November?

I really didn't want to rush this, so please don't think I'm just someone who wants to get in for a quick buck. I just don't know how realistic it is to be able to do lockouts (reliably) this fast. I want to build a reputable business the right way. If it's possible, I'll go for it. If not, I guess I'll wait.
Any advice?
Thanks!

[Eyes_Only]

My personal experience with lockouts was about 5 to 7 months of running at least 8 calls a day until I built a comfort level with it.

And even then it can be tricky. I've been working at my current shop for almost a year and some cars still kick my butt now and then. And the newer models thats coming out every six months you gotta keep up with can be a hassle at the least.

Theres also a lot of liability with lockout jobs, both auto and residential/commercial. The customer can claim that the lock stopped working right or just stopped working all together after YOU touched it so YOU must be responsible for it. 50% they are right, the other half is trying to rip you off.

I can tell you more but to keep it simple, don't rush into this. You'll suffer unecessarly if you do.

[jpb06080]

I think alot of it has to do with where you're located. If you're in a city, lockouts are going to be far more difficult than if you are in an area with lower security demands. Also, are you planning to include automotive service? Theres alot of factors that could make the difference between you being ready and not being ready by november.

[TYE]

Thanks for your replies!
My initial thought was, I'm rushing this. I know how much planning these things usually take, and 5 months is usually pretty fast, even with experience.
I don't want to over-simplify the lockout business by any means. I know it takes more than a slim jim, a set of picks, and luck.

I may take the longer route and see if I can get in part time with one of the locksmith places here in town first. Maybe I can start with lockouts, then go to other stuff. I have a feeling I'd be much better off going into this with confidence.
Thanks for your advice!

[mattman]

Theres also a lot of liability with lockout jobs, both auto and residential/commercial. The customer can claim that the lock stopped working right or just stopped working all together after YOU touched it so YOU must be responsible for it. 50% they are right, the other half is trying to rip you off.

I was thinking about this, and wonder if after the locksmith gets the lock open, they try the customer's keys and make sure the lock still works, and then have the customer sign something agreeing that the lock is still in working order after the unlocking was done. Would that free the locksmith from any liability if the lock later breaks, and at the same time, protect the locksmith from those who are trying to rip him off?

Just wondering,
Matt

[Servalite6354]

I was thinking about this, and wonder if after the locksmith gets the lock open, they try the customer's keys and make sure the lock still works, and then have the customer sign something agreeing that the lock is still in working order after the unlocking was done. Would that free the locksmith from any liability if the lock later breaks, and at the same time, protect the locksmith from those who are trying to rip him off?

Just wondering,
Matt

I'd just have them sign a paper before I open the lock that says:
1. I have permission to open the lock
2. I won't be liable for any damage incurred (within reason)
3. They certify ownership of whatever's locked, or will when it's opened, or back shut it goes.


Maybe even payment in full or partial, before the job is started.

I like your idea, too.


BTW, I am not a locksmith (yet ) .

[lockdr]

Lady next door locked herself out. Smithy gave her a piece of paper to sign that said "XXX Locksmiths not liable for...<anything>" Gave a droll explanation after she had signed that "...sometimes we have to drill the door"
The way it was worded the Locksmith could have knocked the door down with dynamite and she had already given her permission for them to use any means necessary and they were not responsible even if they failed to get the door open.