There are always problems with overpriced locksmith services in Austria – the Chamber of Commerce is aware of this problem and warns about numerous dubious scammers. In particular, 0800 numbers that rank high on Google should be avoided.
On Monday morning, Peter S. from Neunkirchen is in a hurry. Carry the trash downstairs quickly – and boom, the door slams shut. And of course the key is in the apartment. In his haste, S. contacted the first emergency locksmith he found via Google. “It arrived quite quickly and informed me honestly in advance about the costs,” says the customer.
A lot of money for just one minute of time
He only realized afterwards that the amount of 333.60 euros was quite high and S. is now annoyed by it. Especially considering the actual time required. “The gentleman took out his tools – just a hook –, pushed the door back a bit, slammed the hook into the lock and within a minute the door was open,” says Mr S.
Avoid 0800 numbers at all costs
The Chamber of Commerce has been aware of these horrendous amounts for a long time and is fighting against them with a lot of educational work. We have also heard of even higher amounts than Mr. S. paid.
Harald Schinnerl, head of the Lower Austrian State Guild for Metal Technicians, warns in particular about locksmith services, which appear at the top of the Google search. “You can often recognize them by the typical 0800 number,” says Schinnerl and advises: “It is better to use companies that have the ‘unlocker’ quality seal.”
You can easily find the nearest reputable unlocking service via the Chamber of Commerce company AZ or the “My Unlock Service” app.
Regional provider would have cost 150 euros
Peter S. is twice as irritated. Only later did he notice that there was an information sheet on his stairs with the telephone numbers of two local locksmiths. And inquiries with a company from Neunkirchen revealed that if he had called there, he would have paid only 150 euros for the same service.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
