The best locksmith in chicago is a licensed, insured and bonded expert who is certified to work on various types of locks. They specialize in rekeying house and car locks, installing door lock systems, keypad and smart locks, as well as high-security locks. They can also install alarm systems and offer security consulting services to help clients protect their assets from theft.

It is important to choose a locksmith that makes their pricing clear. Some locksmiths use a bait and switch tactic where they advertise a low price over the phone and then charge more once they arrive at your location. In addition to transparent pricing, make sure that the locksmith has a license and insurance.

It is also a good idea to give trusted friends or family members a copy of your house key in case you ever find yourself locked out. This way, they can open your home for you in the event of an emergency without compromising your privacy. This method is preferable to breaking a window, which can be dangerous and expensive. Moreover, it is not as effective at preventing break-ins as it does not deter criminals from trying to enter your home through other entry points. Besides, it can be difficult to repair broken windows, and you may incur additional costs for replacing damaged doors and frames. For this reason, it is better to invest in a quality residential lock system and have your keys copied by a professional locksmith in chicago.