Not everything is an emergency, and paying emergency attention for a job that could wait helps nobody. However, four situations genuinely should not wait.
You cannot secure the property
A door that will not lock is the clearest case. Consequently the building is open whether you are there or not. Furthermore, insurers generally expect reasonable steps to secure a property. Therefore this one is urgent regardless of the hour.
A break-in has happened
After forced entry the priority is making the opening secure the same night. Consequently a temporary fix now beats a perfect fix on Tuesday. Moreover the police should attend before anything is touched, so call them first and a locksmith second.
Someone is locked out in the cold
Ottawa winters turn a lockout into a safety matter rather than an inconvenience. Consequently anyone outside without a coat below minus fifteen changes the priority entirely. Therefore say so on the phone, because it affects how the job is scheduled.
What can genuinely wait
A stiff key, a lock you want upgraded, or rekeying after a move can all be booked. Consequently there is no benefit to paying attention you do not need. Above all, a locksmith telling you something can wait is worth more than one who agrees everything is urgent.
Questions we get about this
Is a stiff lock an emergency?
No, but book it soon. Because stiff locks eventually snap keys.
What if my door will not lock?
That is urgent. The property is open until it is fixed.
Should I call police or a locksmith first?
Police, after a break-in. Then a locksmith once the scene is released.
Is there a night surcharge?
Not with Urban Locksmith. The rate is the same at any hour.
