I've been posting reviews here on Yelp for 9+ years now, and I've used Yelp for as many years to…read moreresearch service companies and restaurants and stores. It's been an invaluable resource for me, as a consumer, to find reputable and recommended places and companies, and through the years, I've discovered some wonderful places and people this way. But once in a great while, through Yelp, I find a company or establishment that is so incredible, so stellar, I wish there were more stars to give them. My amazing real estate agents here in Vancouver, and in Seattle, are prime examples, as they went way above and beyond the call of duty for me and did phenomenal jobs and were incredibly genuine and professional and helpful and knowledgeable and nice.
And so was Eli with DoorSmithbc.
I initially wanted a free estimate from another reputable locksmith I found here on Yelp, but when I clicked the link on Yelp to get the estimate, somehow Yelp sent my request to three other locksmiths nearby too, so I could compare prices (as well as response time and overall responsiveness, IMO). Initially I wasn't thrilled, as I only wanted to contact the initial locksmith but, as fate would have it, I am SO LUCKY that Yelp sent my request to DoorSmithBC and the others, too. (The initial locksmith never even responded to me at all! One other responded with a price quote the next day, another responded with a slew of questions the next day and wanted photos of my existing locks, and DoorSmithbc responded within a few hours with a quote. And that quote was very reasonable, too).
When I called DoorSmithbc the next day to ask a few questions, I got Eli on the line and, immediately, I knew this company was the one: he was so understanding of exactly what I needed, he informed me of all his credentials (including certified by the RCMP and more), and the more we spoke, I just intuitively trusted him. I noted that, in addition to some basic lock jobs and a repair to a non-functional latch lock on my balcony slider, I really wanted to get a deadbolt installed. He said he'd evaluate if that was truly needed when he visited as, oftentimes, it is not. (One of the other locksmiths flat-out quoted me "at least $200 to get a deadbolt installed". No ifs, ands or buts). I was relieved when Eli said that he would be the one who'd come by to do the job and we booked the appointment for the following morning.
Later that night I had to reschedule the next morning's appointment as a conflict suddenly arose. I was really embarrassed. I called DoorSmith, thinking I'd get an answering machine (it was somewhat late), expecting to leave a message and hoping someone would pick it up prior to my appointment (scheduled for 9am the next morning!). Amazingly, Eli answered the phone. Does this guy never go home? I told him he should get a raise! I explained my situation and he couldn't have been nicer or more understanding. We re-scheduled for two days later.
On the day in question, Eli showed up exactly on time, to the minute. He showed me his credentials (not sure if this is the law here in Vancouver, but it was reassuring to see). He did the lock job pronto and, after evaluating my door lock and door and frame, he explained to my why a deadbolt was not indicated. Here I was, expecting to spend $200+ for a deadbolt, and the locksmith tells me it's not needed and why, and he doesn't believe in taking advantage of his clients' who, he explained, are usually in a vulnerable position about their security systems. I was so impressed by this guy's integrity. Can you imagine, telling a customer they don't need something when they really don't, despite the fact that you could make some easy money by doing what the client asks?
Eli fixed my slider door latch and made me extra door keys and the price was so reasonable, I kept asking him if he was sure that the bill was correct.
I can't say enough good things about this company or Eli. I've already referred DoorSmith to all my friends and I will never use another locksmith as long as I'm in Vancouver.
